March 31. “Why are you frowning, Button? You don’t look too good.”

“I have a nasty toothache.”

“I’ve told you time and again not to eat so many chocolates but you don’t seem to listen. Those cavities must be acting up.”

“But you told me only the other day that chocolates are good for cavities! That’s why I’ve been eating a lot more because I thought my cavities would heal!”

“Silly of you. You know how they say one thing today only to say the opposite a few days later. Surely, you can’t go around following the written word! I’ll take an appointment with the dentist and take you for a dental check-up. In the meantime take this pain killer. It’ll give you some relief.”

“But I hate taking pills.”

“Do you have an option? I called the doctor. He’s asked you to take any pain killer thrice a day and will see you tomorrow evening at 6. Want to try some home remedy in the meantime?”

“Home remedy? Like what?”

“Like placing a pod of garlic with some rock salt on the affected tooth. It will give you some relief.”

“How can I put a smelly garlic pod in my mouth? It’s a sickening thought.”

Daughter: All the birthday arrangements except the decorations are in place. Now please don’t mess things up by giving Button any clue. Take him for a car ride at around 6 and try and be back home by 7.

Me: Perfect. And thank you.