It was supposed to be a quiet getaway to escape the festive season.

‘You don’t think it will take away from the rustic charm?’ I tried.

Nothing could dampen his enthusiasm for twinkling fairy lights.

‘Some on the moose’s antlers?’

‘He’s lost enough dignity as it is.’

He tottered on the chair trying to hook the string of lights on. The chair toppled over. He hung onto the neck. I could hear the straining creak.

After the crash faded and dust settled, I managed to prise the heavy moose head off him.

‘There’s a moose loose about this hoose.’

He didn’t see the funny side.

Written for Friday Fictioneers hosted by Rochelle Wisoff-Fields (more details HERE). The idea is to write a short story of 100 words based on the photo prompt (above).

To read more stories of 100 words based on this week’s prompt, visit HERE. For anyone not from Scotland or the UK, there was a popular television advert a few years ago for Wine Gum sweets that involved a Scottish laird in an old castle with an infectious tagline and tune – ‘There’s a Moose, Loose about this Hoose’ (house) – all to rhyme with ‘juice’! It featured a moose head on the wall, which the prompt reminded me of. If you really want a treat,you can view it on YouTube HERE.

A bit of unexpected recognition for ‘The Barra Boy’ last week – a letter from my Member of Parliament thanking me and wishing me well! Not something I ever expected my writing to achieve, but very welcome encouragement!

‘The State Trilogy’ and ‘The Barra Boy’ available now.