‘Morning all,’ says Ellie, getting into the back of Mark’s car.
‘Good morning, Ellie,’ replies Mark, all polite, and looking decidedly fresh and awake.
‘Good morning, Ellie,’ repeat the boys, poking fun at Mark and making Ellie smile.
‘All the paint and stuff is in the boot, and we’ve enough to sink a battleship!’ says Johnny to Ellie as Mark drives off.
‘You said this shed was as big as a house, so I brought plenty of paint,’ adds Mark, eager to join in the banter, and resulting in Ellie and Mee laughing politely at his little joke.
***
Madge is also up and about and has just finished her breakfast when a sharp knock sounds from her front door.
That’ll be Ellie and the boys! thinks Madge, glancing at the wall clock in the kitchen before heading for the front door.
‘Ten past nine,
