Me: We had a lovely early evening walk together, didn’t we?
Nell: Not really.
Me: Why? The weather was gorgeous and the countryside is looking beautiful.
Nell: Yes, but you insisted on attaching me to a monstrously huge orange lead.
Me: I know.
Nell: It’s one of David’s.
Me: It’s retractable. The idea was to give you space while keeping you secure.
Nell: This isn’t about dogs attacking me, is it?
Me: Not really. It’s actually more about you striding off too far before I can stop you.
Nell: I’m not exactly Speedy Gonzales.
Me: You can move quite fast when you want to and you don’t listen.
Nell: I’m not wearing that thing again.
Me: I agree. It was awfully heavy but I promised Kev I would use it.
Nell: I won’t stride off.
Me: Good.
Nell: Unless provoked.
Me: Oh dear.
Nell: Or if I want to go down to the stream.
Me: You have to pace yourself, Nell.
Nell: Sometimes you don’t. Sometimes you might just want to walk a little bit too far.
Me: Really?
Nell: Yes. It might take a long time to get back and you might be dreadfully tired by the time you do, but it will have been worth it.
Me: I worry about you.
Nell: You worry about everything.
Me: Yes, I’m afraid I do.
Nell: Well, stop. Worrying can prevent you from enjoying what you have.
Me: You’re right.
Nell: So, no ridiculous lead needed?
Me: Not that lead. We have to have one when we’re crossing the road and walking past the farm with the chickens and the sheep.
Nell: I’m not going to bother any chickens.
Me: You strode in there last time uninvited.
Nell: The sign said ‘Eggs for Sale’. We needed some.
Me: I see. Sorry.
