Nell: Nigel’s looking well.
Me: I said the same thing to Charlotte. It’s lovely to see him so happy.
Nell: As long as he knows that isn’t his bed.
Me: It’s not anyone in particular’s bed. Don’t be so mean.
Nell: Just saying.
Me: How was your afternoon tea yesterday?
Nell: Delicious, as always. Poppy excelled herself. The scones were light and fluffy and the sandwiches were exquisite.
Me: Did the Portly Sisters enjoy themselves?
Nell: They always do. Even though they’re Royal Corgis they have none of the airs and graces of Lady Anwen.
Me: I haven’t seen her in a long time. I wonder where she is?
Nell: Lurking in the shadows, I expect. Nasty animal.
Me: I hope not.
Nell: Has Mollie settled into life in Devon?
Me: It’s going to take time, Nell, but we’ll get there. She says the staff are very kind.
Nell: Good. What are your plans for today?
Me: It’s going to be a quiet day. Country walks and visiting Mollie followed by Herr Hoffmann’s Hungarian Goulash.
Nell: Herr Hoffmann is German.
Me: I know, but his goulash isn’t. It’s just the kind of hearty meal you need on a cold November day.
Nell: If you say so, we’re having steak and chips. Charlie’s favourite meal.
Me: Kev likes a good steak.
Nell: Poppy’s decided we can each choose a different meal every night.
Me: And she will cook it? How diplomatic of her.
Nell: Not quite. She has the casting vote.
Me: I thought there wasn’t a vote.
Nell: Poppy will only cook it if she likes it.
Me: So, in reality she’s still making the decisions?
Nell: Yes.
Me: Clever.
Nell: I thought so.
Me: It’s the kind of thing you would do.
Nell: I beg your pardon?
Me: Sorry.
