Disappearing Acts

- Jason O'Hare

It was the day of the camp’s annual farewell party and talent show. Parmesh was making apple pies to share. Other campers would be bringing fresh-made cookies, performing magic, singing, dancing, and even juggling. Parents were invited, too. But while Parmesh was searching the kitchen’s storage room for a jar of cinnamon, his apples disappeared from the kitchen counter.

Parmesh swung open the door and stepped outside. In the center of camp, a bunch of kids were getting ready for their acts. Maybe one of them had seen the apple thief. 

Was Someone trying to sabotage their day?

His friend Jigna was out of breath. “I’m trying to catch my dog,” she explained. “My mom dropped him off for my animal act, but someone took his leash!”

“The apples for my pies disappeared, too,” Parmesh said.

“That’s weird,” said Jigna. “Maybe the same person took the leash and the apples.”

They agreed to keep a lookout, and Parmesh walked on.

He found Aditi in front of the lodge, tying a sheet onto a rope. “Hey, Aditi, have you seen anyone walk by with a bunch of apples?” he asked.