Scatterbrain

Ewan Smith’s light-hearted short story has a very forgetful heroine.

 I had come to the supermarket to pick something up, but I couldn’t remember what . . .

- Ewan Smith

I DON’T believe it!” The last thing I did before leaving home that morning was to remind myself to drop into the supermarket after work. Now, here I was, and I couldn’t remember what it was that I was supposed to buy.

“I am such a scatterbrain,” I muttered as I stood by the supermarket entrance trying to decide what to do. I let out a sigh of irritation. “That sounded heartfelt.” It was one of the supermarket managers. He had a clipboard in his hand and he had been making some notes about the entrance display. He smiled. “Is there anything I can do to help?” I explained what had happened. “It’s something important; I just can’t remember what it is. It’s so frustrating!”

“Why don’t you have a wander round the aisles?” he suggested. “Perhaps seeing whatever it is will remind you.” I nodded. “I’ll do that. Thanks . . .” I glanced at his name badge. “Thanks, Brian.” He smiled. “It’s a pleasure. I hope you find what you’re looking for.”

I headed off along the Fruit & Vegetables aisle, wondering what Brian must have thought. It was one thing for my gran to forget what she had come to the shops for. But I was only twenty-six! I had a look at the Deli counter and then went slowly down Bread & Bakery. But I knew I’d plenty of bread at home.

Brian seemed friendly and easy-going and he had a nice smile.