10 1) Diane So,... how are things, Lorna? Lorna Well, Andy and I aren’t getting on too well at the moment. D Oh, dear. What’s the matter? L He’s working so hard he’s hardly ever home. And when he is, he’s absolutely shattered and really moody. D Hmm, I can see why you’re upset. Have you tried talking to him about it? L Yes, but he says I’m spending too much money and then just gets really angry. D Oh, how awful! L But I’m only buying things for the house and the kids. Oh, I’m so miserable, Diane. What do you think I should do? D Well, maybe you should talk to him again. Tell him you’re concerned about him and that you’re worried that he’s going to make himself ill. L Well, it’s worth a try, I guess. Thanks. 2) Robin Hi, Andy. You look a bit fed up. Is everything OK? Andy Yeah, I suppose so. Just got a few money worries, that’s all. R Oh, I’m sorry to hear that. What’s the problem? A Well, you know - 2 kids, new house, and Loma’s spending more and more every month. Not on herself, but she buys lots of things for the house and the kids that we don’t need. R Well, why don’t you talk to her about it? A I tried that, but she doesn’t listen and then she goes on about me being tired all the time. Which is true, I am. R Yeah, I see what you mean. But I guess it can’t be much fun for her, at home all day with the kids. A Yes, good point. So what should I do? R Well, I’d take her out for a really nice meal and talk to her about it. A Yes, that’s a good idea. I might try that. Thanks, Robin. R No problem. 3) Mother Hello? Lorna Hi, Mum, it’s Lorna. M Oh, hello, darling. How are you? L Er, well, not bad, I suppose. I’m still not getting on very well with Andy. M Oh, dear. What a shame. Is he still working all the time? L Yeah, he is. M It can’t be good for him, working so hard. I think he should look for another job. L Yes, you could be right. M And maybe you ought to spend some time together, you know, just the two of you. You both need a night off, dear. L Actually, I’m so glad you said that. M Oh, why’s that? L Andy’s just phoned. He’s asked me to go out to dinner with him tonight and we need a babysitter. M Er, well, actually ... L You did say I needed a night off. M Yes, fine, of course I’ll do it. What time do you want me to come round? L Um, at about 7? M OK, see you then. L Thanks a lot, Mum. Bye. M Goodbye, darling.