"I am glad you think so Percy," it meant a lot to Penny that he liked the gift. "Well I am sure you could have asked for something better but thanks."
"Work is good, I have had a lot of paperwork to do, and trying to catch up on it," she paused twisting her lip a little. "I am well enough." If she gave the truth about how she felt the topic of this conversation was sure to take the direction she was trying to avoid. "How are you?" she hoped it was better than herself since it was his birthday and all.
Tom came over and placed the pint on the table. "Can I get an order of fish n chips and mushy peas?" She gave a sweet smile before turning her attention to Percy as she pulled the pint towards hers. "Oh yes, I meant to ask have you had a chance to crack open your journal yet?"