Me: I can’t believe Chris has to leave today. He’s like Harriet. One minute he’s here and the next he’s gone.
Nell: Nonsense. He arrived last Sunday. He’s been with us all week. You’re just not feeling well and it’s making you grumpy.
Me: You’re probably right.
Nell: Besides, you’ll be seeing him again in August.
Me: I was so excited about his visit. I didn’t want to get ill.
Nell: Neither did he. But such is life. You still had a lovely time together.
Me: Yes, we did.
Nell: Now, I’m afraid you can’t take him to the station. You’re going to have to stay in bed.
Me: I want to go.
Nell: No arguments. You were coughing all night again.
Me: I know. I’m exhausted.
Nell: Exactly. Now, David is having a short nap and a bacon sandwich downstairs before he resumes his duties.
Me: He kept an eye on me all night. Darling Big Brave Beautiful Boy.
Nell: It’s what he does best. He likes to Be There.
Me: He’s very good at it.
Nell: Harriet will stay up here until he returns. The Big Cats offered to sit with you but I thought you might feel a little bit crowded.
Me: You were right. Two lions and a tiger might be too much for me at the moment.
Nell: It’s Saturday so you’ll be pleased to hear there’s no Morning Roar.
Me: That is a relief.
Nell: I suggested the Stuffed Tiger be removed but it refused.
Me: It’s stuffed, Nell. It can’t speak.
Nell: That’s exactly what it wants you to think. Sly creature.
Me: It’s looking after the Cuddle Nells and watching over me.
Nell: We are watching over you. Now, say goodbye to Chris and try and get some sleep.
Me: Yes. Sorry.
