“I’m sorry, but it sounds so hokey. And look at you guys. It’s like you’re about to fall asleep. Some party entertainment!” Veronica and I turn and say, “Shh!” at the same time. Jake pretends to zip his lips and throw away the key while rolling his eyes. We return our attention to the screen, and dread prickles the back of my neck because Madame Mesmer is pointing to me! I definitely don’t remember this. Please, please, please don’t let me have done anything embarrassing. I glance at Jake again. Oh please. Madame Mesmer points to me. “What’s your name?” “Meghan.” “Okay, Meghan. Let’s see how you’re responding to the hypnosis. When you hear the words Magnificent Madame Mesmer, you are going to jump up and down on one foot.” She strolls back and forth across the basement carpet. She seems like she’s in full-on performer mode, looking out over a nonexistent audience and waiting a beat before whispering, “Magnificent Madame Mesmer.” Aaaaaaand there I go.
