Read Online Bumblestook: Book 1, The Accidental Wizard by Sheri McClure-Pitler - Free Book Online Page B

were reminded of the serious nature of their visit) started to head back down the path.
    “One moment!” Bartholeumous spoke in a Compelling Voice, causing everyone (including the squirrels in the trees and the unseen insects in the grass) to freeze in their tracks. “I have one last bit of Magic to perform. A gift—” he said, raising his arms with a flourish, “for Bumblestook the Great, Future Wizard Extraordinaire!”

    Poof! A cloud of blue smoke appeared in front of him, billowing up from the edges of his flowing black cloak. When it cleared, a small white creature cowered there.
    “
I
know how he did
that
one,” Harvey said smugly, nudging his wife.
    “But, what is it?” Myrtle asked, taking a couple cautious steps forward.
    The creature lifted its head at her approach, perhaps sensing her fondness for small animals.
    “Oh, it’s a puppy!” she cried out in delight. “A little American Eskimo pup. How precious!”
    “Familiar with them, are you?” Bartholeumous asked, as if unaware of Myrtle’s passion for puppies.
    “Oh yes! They’re really smart little dogs. Used to be seen all the time in circuses. And don’t let the small size fool you—they’re as brave as lions. Plus, they’re
extremely
loyal.”
    “Exactly right, my dear woman!” Bartholeumous boomed. “It is those very qualities which make this creature a perfect companion for your son. It will watch over him like a hawk and fiercely defend him from his enemies!”
    “Enemies?” Myrtle stopped short. “I wasn’t aware he had any—”
    “Hypothetically speaking, of course.”
    “Oh, of course.”
    “Can I keep ’im mom, can I please, huh? Pleazopleazoplease?” Farley tugged at his mother’s sleeve, popping up and down like a jumping bean.
    “What do you think, Harvey?”
    “Well, I think our little Farley here’s old enough to have a pet. And you’re right about that enemy stuff, Mr. Bartholeumous. Can’t be too careful nowadays.”
    “Whoo-hoo! I’m gonna have a puppy, I’m gonna have a puppy!” Farley sang out and danced about.
    Olivia sidled up to get a good look at the animal, eyeing it with suspicion. At a signal from Bartholeumous, it stood, watching him expectantly.
    It did appear to be of that breed, fondly called Eskies by their indulgent owners. It was probably just a trick of the light that the standard all-white coat sparkled, as if sprinkled with diamond dust. It had the same fox-like face and shiny, dark eyes (a bit larger than usual) with lids outlined in black. The lips (thin, and black as licorice whips) curled up in a smile that was almost Human. Its little black nose was that of an Eskie, though perhaps the muzzle was a bit shorter and more upturned at the end. It had the usual triangular ears perched high atop its head, though they were a bit longer and larger, as well. After all, even dogs of the same breed exhibit
some
differences in their characteristics. If it weren’t for that tail—
    “Oh, my goodness!” Myrtle gasped as she viewed the creature fully. “I’ve
never
seen a tail like
that
before!”
    Indeed it
was
an unusual tail for an Eskie, or any other kind of dog for that matter! Instead of the standard, plumed tail carried in a single curl over its back; this puppy’s tail curled not once, not twice, but
thrice
, like a tightly coiled, furry spring!
    “Just where did you get this ‘puppy’, Uncle?” Olivia asked.
    Bartholeumous raised an eyebrow and returned her steady gaze. “I know his parents,” he replied. Turning to Myrtle he explained, “His name is Yap. Apparently, he is what they call the runt of the litter. You know how it is.”
    “Oh!” Myrtle cried out, clasping her hands to her heart. “Poor little thing!”
    The puppy responded by putting back his ears, wrinkling his furry brow, and turning down the corners of his mouth in a sad, little pout. Kind-hearted Myrtle’s eyes brimmed with tears, as she rushed forward to scoop him up.
    “Wait!” Bartholeumous