Slappy- Controlling the Dreamer

“But—but—” I sputtered. “I can’t do that. Those are Brandy’s.”
“You have no choice!” the dummy screamed. “You are my servant!
Open them! Let’s see if there’s anything we want to keep!”
He waved a hand in front of my face, and I felt a strong force pulling me toward the stack of birthday presents. I tried to push back. But the force was too powerful.
I stumbled up to the presents and picked up a box with yellow-andwhite gift wrapping.
“Hurry! Open it!” Slappy screamed, waving his arms in the air.
“Please—no,” I said. But my hands were already tearing at the wrapping paper. I ripped the paper away and pulled open the box.
I gazed at the silky brown sweater inside.
“Garbage!” Slappy declared. “Throw it away. What’s next?”
The next package contained two graphic novels.
“Next!” the dummy cried.
I tore off the wrapping on a set of twenty-four colored markers. “Why are we doing this?” I demanded. “This isn’t right!”
“Next!” Slappy cried.
I opened a few more presents. The torn wrapping paper cluttered the floor all around me. Presents were scattered everywhere.
When I opened the last gift in the pile—two pairs of bright green tights —Slappy tossed back his head and laughed. “Richard, you made a mess!”
he exclaimed. “Why did you do this? Why did you open your friend’s presents?”
“You! You made me do it!” I cried.
He cackled again, the raspy sound echoing off the low basement ceiling.

- Slappy in Dreamland, chapter 22