Outside The Box, by Krystyna Fedosejevs

Annie is missing. “Not in her room,” Mom said. “Can’t find her outdoor shoes,” noted Dad. “Maybe she fell into a humongous puddle,” quipped younger brother. Older brother was silent. Two guinea pigs madly threaded wheels. Crows lined the backyard fence squawking at the house. “Bet she’s at a friend’s,” said Dad. “Maybe a monster snatched her,” younger brother grinned. “That’s enough young man,” asserted Mom. “We need to think OUTSIDE the box,” Dad stated. “Maybe someone put her INSIDE a box,” giggled younger brother. “Hush!” yelled Mom. Older brother emerged: “Annie’s in my bedroom closet with an imaginary friend.”