Page 24 of Resist

Before I could say or do anything else, he leaned forward and pinched two toothpicks from a holder in the centre of our table.

“I’m gonna make one magically jump.”

My eyebrow rose, sceptically. “Magically?”

“You don’t believe in magic?”

“No, I don’t.”

Lucas slapped his hand to his heart, feigning offence. “You will after I’m finished with you.”

I leaned back and took another sip of my wine. “That’s a big call.”

“No, it’s not. It’s a promise.”

“I always tell my s—” I stopped myself from saying the word son and quickly improvised. “… I always tell myself not to make promises I can’t keep. Maybe you should do the same.”

“Don’t need to. I can keep this promise. You will believe in magic. No doubt about it.”

Lucas shifted his eyes from mine and focussed on the two toothpicks he’d placed among his fingers on one hand. “Now, watch carefully.”

I did as I was told, moving closer for a better look, my eyes studying the two tiny splinters of wood. One of them jumped, and if I’d blinked, I would’ve missed it.

“See?” he said, proudly.

“No.”

He grumbled and did it again, the toothpick popping up like popcorn for the second time.

“You’re moving your hand,” I argued.

“I am not.”

“Do it again then.”

This time, I focused hard on his hand, which did not move when the toothpick bounced.

“See?” His smile was bold albeit slightly conceited. “What did I say? Magic.”

“More like vibration or something.”

Lucas pulled the not-bad face.

“I’m right, aren’t I?”

“Not quite.”

“Then what is it?”

“A magician never reveals his secrets.”

“I thought you said you had no secrets.”

“This is different. This is magic.”

I laughed. “That’s not magic.”

“Wow! Tough audience.” Lucas raised his napkin from his lap. “This next trick will seal the deal.”