The thing before me had to be an apparition. Or a dream.

The gorgeous being was floating, and it had to be a girl. Now, what it was…?

“Well, well, look who we have here,” the girl grinned. “Hey, I’m Cassidy, I’m your new genie. At least until you use up your three wishes.” She frowned at that. “So, what’s your name?” She smiled again.

“Mi-Michaela Jo Bartone. But I go by MJ.” Was I actually conversing with this, this Cassidy?

“Cool. We’re gonna be best friends!” Cassidy snapped her fingers and pointed at me. “So, what’s the latest? What’s happening? Boyfriend? Do you play any sports? Are you a Christina Aguilera fan?”

She apparently noticed my awestruck stare, because she immediately backed up.

“Oops, sorry. I forgot that you guys usually have questions. So, spill. Start asking. Ask anything.”

I was still stunned, but I was so curious I was able to speak. “Um, do you usually come out of pink, second-hand table lamps?”

Cassidy grinned. “All the time.”

I liked her already.