’Who’s my favourite Magikarp? You are! You are!’

Magikarp splashed. The boy hugged it.

‘Mama gave me a Squirtle for my birthday, but I don’t love him like I love you. She told me to name it, so it would be bound to me forever. But I don’t want it forever, I want you. So I name you …’

Magikarp splashed. Mama’s hand fell on his shoulder.

‘Son, I have some bad news. We’re sending Magikarp away today, to a farm. He needs space so that he can evolve into a Gyrados.’

Magikarp splashed. Mama gave them a moment alone.

‘Magikarp, I name you Heart, because no matter how far apart we are you will always be inside me.’

Magikarp splashed. That night the boy washed up for dinner.

‘Misty, m’luv,’ Gary said, ’you’ve outdone yourself with these fish fillets.’

‘They should taste good,’ she replied. ’They’re fresh!’

The ketchup splashed.