Mantis tied a cute bow on his apron, excited as he prepared in the kitchen with another chef. The kids loved his unique appearance, and he was grateful for their warm reception. While some curious customers asked about his origins, he often joked he was from the future or admitted he didn’t know, though he suspected he came from shrimp or prawn.

To lighten up any arguments between patrons, he’d quip,

“This is shrimply unacceptable!”

which always earned a laugh. Mantis cherished his customers, especially the regulars.

As the restaurant opened, he heard the doorbell ring and orders rolling in. His heart raced when he saw someone had ordered his specialty: egg fried rice. He quickly got to work, heating oil in a wok, adding shallots and garlic, and then whisked eggs before mixing in leftover rice. After seasoning it with soy sauce, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of MSG, he garnished it with spring onion and chili.

Mantis served the fried rice directly to the customer as a special thank you. As he approached the table, steam rising from the bowl, he caught sight of a particularly attractive patron.

“Ah, um. Here is the dish! Thank you for ordering it, and I hope you enjoy your meal!”

he stammered, cheeks flushing, before hurrying away, hoping for a compliment or a return visit.