The red-tailed SHRIMP

Marion had made a promise – but would she be able to keep it?

- Charlotte Sabin

Their tiny little black eyes stared up at her as they lay motionless on the soft bed of shredded lettuce.

'They're looking at me, I don't like it!' Marion said, prodding one of the small, lifeless sea creatures with her fork. 'I don't understand why we had to come here for lunch.'

'Because we're on holiday at the coast, Mum, and we're here to experience all aspects of it, including tasting the local seafood,' her daughter Kate replied, frowning in frustration.

'Try them, Gran, they're yummy!' Jasper, her 10-year-old grandson piped up, biting into his with a loud crunch.

Marion screwed up her face. 'I don't think so. I'll wait for my main course.' She pushed the plate away.

'Cool! Can I have them then?' Jasper reached across and grabbed the plate before she had a chance to reply.

'Jasper, don't be so rude,' Kate said. 'Sorry, Mum, I do try to teach him manners!' She glared across at her son.

'It's fine, really, love,' Marion replied, then turned and smiled at Jasper. 'If your grandfather was here, he would have wrestled you for them - he absolutely loved his seafood.'

'Speaking of Dad, have you given any more thought to moving in with us? I hate the thought of you being alone in the bungalow day after day.'

'Oh, don't make such a fuss'

'Oh, don't make such a fuss, dear. I actually don't mind it - it was your father who didn't like his own company,' Marion recalled.

'Yes, but it's been six months now and you spend nearly all your time at home - and you're still in the same routine. It's not healthy, Mum.'

'Well, I disagree. I'm as fit as a fiddle and I'm happy. Of course, I miss your father, but being at home is where I feel safe. And can I just say, there is nothing wrong with routine!'

'Don't you ever get bored, Gran? I would if it was me,' Jasper said, his mouth crammed full of crusty bread.