Hamster Magic by Lynne Jonell

Author:Lynne Jonell [Jonell, Lynne]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
ISBN: 978-0-375-89672-9
Publisher: Random House Children's Books
Published: 2010-09-28T04:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER 4

The Great Hamster Speaks

Of course, the children had to get into their pajamas and say good night to their parents. Celia, who usually liked to be tucked in and kissed good night, called out from the girls’ room that hamsters did not want kisses and hugs.

Mother said, “I hope you’re not still a hamster tomorrow, because I’d like to see my little girl again,” and Celia felt a sudden longing for her mother so strong that she almost jumped out of bed and ran to her. Abner had a pang somewhere in his chest—what would his mother say if Celia never was a little girl again?—and he felt more responsible than ever.

But Tate said, “I’m sure she’ll be your girl again in the morning,” which she felt was a nice thing to say, even if she didn’t quite believe it.

Derek didn’t say anything. He was already fast asleep in the boys’ bedroom, sprawled across the bed with the covers in a bunch. Then after a while Tate went to sleep, too, and it was up to Abner to stay awake. He had to keep Celia quiet and listen for the silence that meant his parents had finally gone to bed.

It was dark and very late when Abner lifted a trembling Hammy from the cage. “Listen,” he said, “we’re going to find the Great Hamster, and you’re going to help us.”

Hammy looked up from Abner’s hand, blinking nervously.

“And no pretending you don’t know where she is, just so you don’t get into trouble,” Abner added.

Hammy wiped his paws over his nose and looked as if he were about to cry.

“I’ll tell her that you didn’t mean to hurt anybody,” said Abner, and he tucked Hammy gently in his pocket.

Three sleepy children and one very large hamster tiptoed down the stairs. Celia’s nails click-clacked on the wooden steps, so Abner picked her up. She was not too heavy to carry if he rested now and then. In the dark, Abner could almost pretend that Celia was a little girl again, dressed in very fuzzy pajamas.

But she wasn’t, of course. And when they got to the front door, Celia turned her head, sniffing.

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