Nell: Look at me and Alice. That brings back memories.
Me: Yes. I thought I’d share it as it’s International Women’s Day.
Nell: Two strong, wonderful females?
Me: Exactly.
Nell: So, where are you?
Me: I’m not that strong or wonderful, Nell.
Nell: I beg to disagree.
Me: Nobody needs to see me at the moment.
Nell: Nonsense. What roast are you having today? Poppy’s cooking beef.
Me: Herr Hoffmann doesn’t feel like cooking. We’re having salad.
Nell: Salad on a Sunday?
Me: We’re fine.
Nell: Are you still going to Sunday Songs?
Me: Of course. It’s dedicated to you.
Nell: Not more weeping and wailing, I hope.
Me: Just your favourite songs and Rupert wants to share a short poem with us.
Nell: Do you know what it is?
Me: Yes, it’s very sad, Nell. It made me cry.
Nell: Tell me.
Me: It’s called ‘Separation’ by the American poet W.S. Merwin.
‘Your absence has gone through me
Like thread through a needle.
Everything I do is stitched with its color.’
Nell: Beautiful words, but extremely sad.
Me: I know. It sums up the feeling of losing someone you love.
Nell: You need to keep a really close eye on him for me, please. He’s not coping.
Me: I’m afraid he simply wants to be alone.
Nell: I understand. Just make sure you’re there when he realises he needs you.
Me: I will.
Nell: Sometimes it takes time for people to ask for help, or even accept they need it.
Me: I know.
Nell: Moving on, Poppy was wondering if all the women might like to dress as fierce pirates today?
Me: Definitely not.
Nell: She and I are. The Cat is bound to have a whole selection of outfits in its Dressing Up Box.
Me: Not happening. Sorry.
