She Chose The Ones Trying To Escape

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Misty Harbour was exactly as friends described it. Almost every possible sea creature you've seen on TV, and it had that fresh ocean smell. You know, cucumbers and seaweed.

I hadn't noticed her, but I sensed perfume. She pointed at the lobster tank and spoke to the burly man in a fish-stained smock. "I'll take those two."

I turned to face a slim woman in jeans and a Yankees cap toting a Gucci purse.

"How do you know which ones to pick?"

She turned abruptly. "Those look like they're trying to escape — so they must be the freshest."

I know nothing about lobsters. "Makes sense."

She laughed. "Not really. What do I know about lobsters? But my sister said if I'm ever in these parts, this is where I should go, so here I am."

She took off her cap to straighten a blond curl.

"You're visiting?"

"I'm from Montreal, but I have a new job in Saint John."

"I have friends in Montreal. What part of town did you live in?

"I had a condo in Westmount."

"Sir? Can I help you?"

My cue. I pointed at a couple of lively ones, and we made our way to the cash.

"So, who's going to cook your lobster for you?"

"I just rented an apartment... I guess I'll have to stop and buy a pot somewhere," she laughed.

"My name is Pierre, and I have one of those big stainless steel ones. I'm pretty sure my lobsters wouldn't mind sharing the same pot with yours."

"Hi Pierre. My name is Linda, and you're very kind. But I'm pretty sure my husband would."

Her smile was warm, and her wave was sweet. But her stride was brisk.

The fishmonger and I watched as she walked out the door.

"Those types come in here often. But ya tried, didn-cha, eh?"

I smiled as he handed me the bag. I'd be back.

I love lobster... and now, I know how to pick'em.

• Do you have a goto spot or do you rely on sites like AFF?

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She caught one.