I walk downstairs with Bradley and find Mum in the kitchen. She’s drinking a very large coffee and Lauren is explaining the periodic table to her. Mum knows every chemical element ever—even the unpronounceable ones. However, because Mum is a big believer in building female ego and self-confidence, she is letting Lauren talk. And talk.
I can see Mum wants to escape, and I want to borrow her skills. This is a perfect time for some social symbiosis. I learned it in science. It’s when two things can benefit each other. Or something. I get Mum away from Lauren and she helps me with my next plan.
“Lauren, I just need to borrow Mum. Perhaps you can…”
Lauren spots Huevos and interrupts. “Give that a walk!”
Bradley snarls like a very unfriendly dog and says, “His name is Huevos!”
“Yes, Bradley,” Lauren says quizzically. “Why did you name a dog after a food? Doesn’t he get confused? I mean, you wouldn’t call a dog ‘Sausage.’ Or perhaps you would. You do get…”
While Lauren is talking at Bradley, I give Mum the sign for “Can I see you in my room, please?” and point to the ceiling. She knows. It’s a mother and daughter thing.
As we are climbing the stairs, I tell Mum my idea. She nods cautiously but smiles. This idea is a bit of a good one.
No, Millie. Own it. This idea IS a good one. That’s not my mum talking. That’s me.