Disappearing

“I’d like to see you make something disappear” I say, with growing interest. “I’ve always been curious how magicians do that.”

“Your wish is granted!” My mother in law bows. “You will be my volunteer for this trick.”

My mother in law starts to gather all the guests as I step up on the stage: “Attention, everyone. The birthday boy has agreed to be my volunteer for a disappearing trick!” She directs everyone’s attention to a large upright box, big enough for someone to stand in, with a curtain covering the front. “Step inside the box, birthday boy.” She commands.

I do as I’m bid, closing the curtain behind me after I’m inside the box. I hear my mother in law whisper from outside the box “keep your hands lowered at your sides. For . . . safety.”

“Everyone! Eyes to the box!” My mother in law exclaims. “I will now perform my disappearing act by saying the magic words” she clears her throat and continues “Lay the contents of this box bare!”

With that, she flings the curtain open and I step out into the light, hands at my sides.