Nell: Do you know what time you can go and collect Charlotte from the hospital?
Me: Not yet. The doctors have to make sure she’s well enough to leave first.
Nell: But the operation went well?
Me: Yes, it did. She was happily eating roast chicken followed by jelly and ice cream when we texted yesterday evening.
Nell: Nigel has been asking when she’ll be coming home since she left yesterday morning.
Me: Bless him. I’m afraid he’s going to have to wait a little bit longer.
Nell: He keeps looking out of the window at the cars, expecting her to get out.
Me: Haven’t you explained she can’t drive yet?
Nell: Of course I have.
Me: He’s going to be so excited when she comes through the door.
Nell: I’ve told everyone to try and keep calm. No loud barking, no jumping and no llamas.
Me: They definitely need to stay outside.
Nell: You know they’ve started tap dancing?
Me: Oh dear.
Nell: Quite. As if cartwheeling isn’t bad enough.
Me: Well, they can’t do any tap dancing around here for the next few days. Charlotte’s on strict bed rest.
Nell: Good luck with that.
Me: What do you mean?
Nell: Your sister is not someone who likes to sit around. She’s always on the move.
Me: Not on my watch.
Nell: Or mine, but I worry about David.
Me: Why?
Nell: He’s easily persuaded.
Me: Darling Big Brave Beautiful Boy.
Nell: I’m going to make sure Harriet does the night shift with him. She won’t stand for any nonsense.
Me: Is the night shift a good idea?
Nell: Charlotte will need cuddles and nobody gives better cuddles than David.
Me: What about Nigel?
Nell: Nigel’s taking on the day shift. He’ll need a break.
Me: You’re right. Sorry.
