Blue cod

Maureen asks the fishmonger for blue cod.
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Maureen: I need four pieces.

Fishmonger: Sorry lady. Only got one piece left.

Maureen: But I’m having three guests. I need four pieces.

Fishmonger: Only got one piece left. How about one piece of blue cod, and three pieces of snapper? You eat the blue cod, and give the guests snapper. You know what I mean? (winks)

Maureen: I couldn’t do that. It’s not fair.

Fishmonger: Wait a moment. (Goes out the back and returns with a whole cod). I was saving this for my brother. But good luck for you.

Maureen: I … I don’t know what to say.
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Voiceover

Maureen, finding pleading actually works with this gruff Croatian fishmonger, is at a loss for words. Primed for disappointment can make us stumble digging up gratitude phrases.
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