James Gullickson

He picked up the hat and looked inside.

The felt rabbit was there, sewn to the lining, matted and faded, and missing one eye.

Just a toy, a cheap trick.

He reached his hand inside.

He felt the lining and the stitching in the interior of a hat that was exactly as it was supposed to be.

Will pulled his hand out and stared at his hand.

He stood there for a moment, waiting.

Then he tossed it back on the table and went upstairs.

Lily told me she has something special planned for after we eat, Audra announced, beaming.

Will's fork froze halfway to his mouth.

His mom clapped her hands together.

How fun, Lily!

says she found Uncle Will's magic kit downstairs, Audra continued, now looking at her daughter.

And she wants to show us something really cool.

Lily smiled, kicking her feet under the table with excitement.

Will set down his fork.

His gaze first went to Lily, whose eyes immediately locked with his.

Then he looked to his father, who was already looking at Will.

Arnold nodded skeptically.

Will turned to assist her.