As the carriage travel through the town, Cinderella lost herself in a memory of being with her father as a child, before he died and left her to suffer so unjustly. When she returned to reality she saw the castle, so beautiful under the stars. They passed through the gates and into a courtyard filled with flowers so bright you didn’t need the sunshine to see them. The footman helped Cinderella down from the carriage and to the castle entrance.

As she glided down the grand staircase all eyes focused on her. For the first time in her life, Cinderella felt beautiful. She hoped that her stepmother and stepsisters wouldn’t recognize her. Not even Elizabeth. She circled the edge of the ballroom and a young tidy-looking man asked for her to dance. She accepted and as happy as she was, immediately regretted it.

“I’m not a very good dancer.â€? Cinderella said quietly.

“Don’t worry, it’s simple. Just follow me,â€? replied the man. He offered his hand and the crowd parted to allow them to the center of the room.