CloseKin
Mum
I think it's maths — you always seem heavier on Tuesday mornings and that's when you have it first.
Ellie
Honestly it's lunch. Maths is fine. Lunch is the bit where I don't know who to sit with.
Ask about lunchtimes specifically this week.
Mum
I assume it keeps you awake and wired. I worry it's the reason mornings are so hard.
Ellie
It's the only time nobody wants anything from me. It's quiet. That's the appeal, not the videos.
Agree one night this week with a wind-down that isn't a rule.
Mum
I try to talk it through straight away. I hate leaving things unsaid overnight.
Ellie
I need about an hour before I can talk. If you come in straight away I just shut down more.
Name a signal that means 'I'm not ignoring you, I just need an hour.'
Mum
Probably the weekend curfew. I know it's earlier than your friends'.
Ellie
The curfew, yeah. But mostly that it never gets discussed, it just gets announced.
Pick one rule to renegotiate together rather than enforce.
Mum
Walking the dog with you and not talking about anything.
Ellie
Same, the dog walk. You didn't ask me about homework once.
Protect one low-pressure five minutes tomorrow.