Nell: David and Harriet look sad.
Me: They are sad, Nell. They’re missing you.
Nell: You need to distract them.
Me: Maybe taking them for a walk will help? The sun is shining today.
Nell: Good idea. A walk in the sunshine will do them good.
Me: Yes, the countryside is looking beautiful.
Nell: How’s Rupert?
Me: He’s gone away.
Nell: What do you mean?
Me: He said he needed to get away.
Nell: On retreat?
Me: No. He’s gone somewhere with Stanley.
Nell: Stanley Smoochy?
Me: I think so. There’s been no spaghetti bolognese at the Bus Stop since Rupert left and no sign of Stanley.
Nell: At least we know why David is sad. Has the rook gone too?
Me: I don’t know. I haven’t really been paying much attention lately.
Nell: Why?
Me: I’ve had other things on my mind.
Nell: You mean losing me?
Me: You’re the only thing on my mind at the moment.
Nell: You need to talk to Sally.
Me: Why?
Nell: She needs to tell you about Rupert.
Me: Tell me what?
Nell: I told you. He’s gone Italian for a reason.
Me: It’s just a reaction to losing you, Nell.
Nell: There’s more to it. Mark my paws.
Me: I think Sally is coming down to Devon again soon. She’s worried about Dave.
Nell: Talk to her. Find out what’s going on.
Me: I’m not sure she’ll tell me.
Nell: Make her. Tell her I need to know.
Me: I’ll give it a go.
Nell: How was your visit to the hairdressers? Your hair looks lovely, by the way.
Me: Thank you. I’m glad I went. Sophie gave me a big hug and we had a little cry together.
Nell: I told you she would understand.
Me: Yes, you did. Sorry.
