Cinder Maid

Untitled Part 9

The next day she repeated what she did the first day only she didn’t realize it. Cinder was so busy with the task at hand she forgot to think for the longest of time.

This time she finished fifteen minutes before sundown that night. Elated that she got finished in time she rushed to her “room” only to be stopped by Ella.

“The ball will start early tonight,” she said. “You must help us dress.”

Cinder hung her head. Of course her stepmother would make sure she couldn’t find anything to wear. She was foolish to believe otherwise.

But that night Ella was true to her word as the carriage arrived early to pick up the three women.

“I am sorry you don’t have a dress,” Ella said. “Otherwise you would be able to go.” She looked around as if to make sure no one could hear her. “If you find a dress and a way to the ball you can ride back with us.”

With that she stepped into the carriage.

Cinder knew it was foolish but as she walked back to her “room” she hoped that there was a gown waiting for her. It was all in vain because there was nothing to be noted in the room. Except for the note. She picked up the parchment and licked her lips.

I apologize if I worried you by the absence of dress but mother was in such a rush I could only hastily write this note for you. I heard mother talking about a mysterious woman she saw dancing with a guard the other night. I know it was you.

Go to my room and you will find a mauve gown to wear along with some glass shoes that I obtained from the glass sculptors and testers down on Cherry.

Cinder sat the note on the table and walked to Lily’s room. She put the dress on hastily and tied a silver chain around her neck, hoping Lily wouldn’t mind if she barrowed it. She moved over to the mirror and tied up her hair.

She slipped into the glass slippers and hiked her skirt as she walked toward the door. “Good afternoon, Miss Lyn,” Gareth said tipping his hat.