Just One Chip

On a windswept day at the seaside,
The sun glinting off the waves,
I settled down with my fish and chips,
In the shade of the old pier caves.

The scent of vinegar filled the air,
Salt clung tight to the breeze,
When out of the blue a seagull swooped
With stealthy, practiced ease.

Its beady eyes were fixed on me,
Its wings spread wide and swift,
In a flash, it snatched a golden chip,
A deft and daring lift.

I watched as it flew up to the sky,
My chip clenched in its beak,
A thief that made no sound or cry,
Just a quiet, joyful streak.

The seagull danced above the sea,
A victor in its flight,
And left me there with my surprise,
As it soared into the light.

So now I guard my chips with care,
When I sit by the seaside shore,
For the seagulls here are wily thieves
And always come back for more.