"Sorry we're late," George called out and Natalie skipped up on ahead.
"Hi!" she said brightly. "I like your hair. Are you Emma?" George caught up in a step or two and pulled out a chair for Natalie before leaning over to hug Emma and kiss her cheek.
"Happy birthday," he whispered before pulling back. "We're having a moment about our b-i-r-t-h-d-a-y," George said, hoping Natalie couldn't spell. Her paperwork said she hadn't started first grade yet. "But your g-i-f-t is being owled to your flat as we speak." George figured it would be best to just not mentioned the whole birthday thing for a bit.
"What would you ladies like to eat? My treat," he said, making sure Natalie was settled in her seat before sitting down next to her.