Nell: You’re not going to believe this.
Me: I might.
Nell: David and Harriet are in cahoots with the Stuffed Tiger.
Me: What do you mean ‘in cahoots’?
Nell: Go upstairs into your bedroom and see for yourself.
Me: The puppies aren’t on top of the wardrobe, are they?
Nell: Don’t be ridiculous. How on earth would David get up there? And if he did, he’d never fit.
Me: You’re right. Darling Big Brave Beautiful Boy. So, what’s happened?
Nell: They’re all three lying on the bed together.
Me: Really?
Nell: Yes, and that tiger is definitely trying to win them over by whispering in their ears.
Me: How exciting. It must have so much to say.
Nell: Exactly.
Me: Well, that’s a good thing, isn’t it? Maybe we’ll find out who’s been stealing things and putting them on top of the wardrobe?
Nell: It won’t be telling them that. It’ll be spreading lies. That tiger is not to be trusted.
Me: Have you ever considered that it might simply be trying to make friends?
Nell: No.
Me: That it might be missing the grandchildren?
Nell: We’re all missing the grandchildren.
Me: You know what I mean. When they were here it was always with them. It even slept in their bed.
Nell: Maybe I should be a little kinder.
Me: You should. I think it’s probably afraid we’re going to leave it behind.
Nell: With good reason.
Me: Yes. It’s what you wanted us to do. Imagine how upsetting it must be to feel unwanted.
Nell: Maybe I should rethink it.
Me: All it needs is a few friends.
Nell: Alright. The wretched animal can come with us.
Me: Good. It was coming with us anyway, but I’m glad you’re accepting it.
Nell: Tolerating, not accepting.
Me: Yes. Sorry.
