Deep in the woods a creature stirred. Glowing eyes, iridescent mane, and a robust, sparkly horn protruding from the top of its head. Unlike the rest of his kind, secretive and discreet, this unicorn was destined for fame. His name was Dave.

The mere mention of Gerald the Great struck fear in the hearts of villagers. A ruler and tyrant, he taxed his people mercilessly and had a viscous temper which would flare up without warning. His rule seemed unending, that is, until the day of The Great Reveal.

Rocky’s ears perked up in anticipation. Something moved in front of him. Was it a hand? A toy? Another dog? It didn’t matter. It was about to be in his mouth.

Lucy trotted across the wooden floors sniffing and licking every few steps. At last! She saw a pair of sturdy human feet by the kitchen table. She walked up right behind the unknowing feet, and patiently waited for her next adrenaline rush.

I never did trust Dane, and now I knew why. He clapped his hands, and a dozen human impersonators lurched toward me in perfect unison.

Sometimes, things happen for a reason. The night Timmy slipped off the stage at his jazz band concert, he couldn't imagine what that reason could be. From the orchestra pit, he gazed up at the concerned faces of parents and peers alike.

Autumn winds picked up off the Smiths' deck, knocking their brown umbrella repeatedly against the kitchen window. Astrid watched the leaves swirl from her attic bedroom. She was home alone.

It was only noon but Phil was already sweating profusely. His wife had been right, July was no time for turtlenecks.