Concentrate. Concentrate. That's it. Think only one thought, to come into my world. What? No. I won't come out there with you. My world is much nicer. What's that you say? Of course not! It isn't lonely here at all. I sit back, watch the surfers go by. Someone always takes the time for a cozy little visit, or a stolen glance, and now I thought you were the one. Certainly. You can leave any time. I wouldn't keep you here. No, not at all. I haven't kept anyone here, have I? You wouldn't know? Well, you'll just have to trust me, won't you? If I wanted you here all I'd have to do is hold your attention for the time our heartbeats measure half a minute together, reach out my hand, cast my spell, and you could never leave. Yes, I think that is exactly what I will do.

Story #18