My head still hurts from a bump- obviously delivered by the merciless hands of the witch.

The cave’s floor is grimy and dirty; My dress is torn and mud-stained. I have never felt so humiliated in my entire life. But my pride is swallowed by the immense fear and confusion that clouds my mind.

Why did she bring me here?
What does she want?
Is someone going to rescue me?
Is what she said about the curse true?

There was a rasping laugh, like rusty balls clanking around in an iron bucket;

“You’ll know soon enough, my sweet,” suddenly the cackling was near my face-the putrid breath flooding my nostrils. I felt like retching.

There was a sharp stab at my chin. I felt warm blood trickle down my throat and to my dress, staining it red.

The grip tightened; Only when the witch came forward with a lantern did I realize she was cutting me—

with her nail.