Issue: The sentence structure is a bit confusing because it combines a dependent clause ("Once we get inside") with a direct quote that doesn't have a clear subject.
Solution: There are a couple of ways to fix it:
1. Add a subject to the quote:
"Once we get inside," David said, "you can take your boots off."
2. Change the sentence structure to a more direct statement:
"David said you can take your boots off once we get inside."
Explanation:
* The first option adds a subject ("David") to the quote, making it clear who is speaking.
* The second option restructures the sentence so the quote is the object of the verb "said" and the dependent clause "once we get inside" modifies the verb "take off."
Both options are grammatically correct and clear. Choose whichever option you feel reads more naturally in the context of your writing.