Cinderella's Dream

Prologue

    Life was great before she died. Every day was a tea party, laughing, pinkies up, and yummy chocolate chip cookies. We would play games in the garden, and sneak food when Cook wasn't looking. Oh my, she would get so mad.... It was the three of us, Mama, Papa, and me. We would go horse back riding together and race to the top of the hill. When Papa was working Mama and I would go into the library and read books together. I always loved when she would read me Cinderella and Beauty and the Beast. I admired both Cinderella and Belle. Both of them were resilient, smart, kind, and beautiful just like Mama. They were the perfect roll models.
    I was nine when Mama got sick. At first it was just a cough and headache that soon led to fainting and nausea. The next thing we knew she was in bed, and the doctor said we would have to say goodbye. I had never seen Papa cry like he did that day. Mama was still beautiful when she cried. I will always remember what she said to me. "Elena, I have to go soon, but remember I am still watching over you. You are never alone. You mustn't forget who you are. You are kind, generous, so smart, and so beautiful. You are going to grow into such a wonderful young women. And even though you won't be able to see me, I will see you. Remember this. It is imperative that you continue your education but it is even more important how you treat others. Always be kind, willing to serve, and treat others as equals, for they are equals."
    "I promise Mama." I whispered
    "That's my girl." She breathed
    "Mama, I love you!" I cried softly "Please don't go. I want to see you still."
    "Sweetheart, I will still be here watching over you," She said dolefully, removing the heart shaped locket around her neck. "This," She said opening it to reveal a picture of her on one side and a picture of our small family on the other. "is for you. Now you can always see me."
    I smiled sadly for her sake. Tears were streaming down both of our cheeks and I knew Mama was sad she was leaving us for a while. "Oh, Mama!" I threw myself over her sobbing.
    "Shhh..." she soothed rubbing her hand on my back, "It is going to be all right. One day I will be able to hug you like this again."
    "I know, I know Mama." I could not help but notice how weak her voice had become. She was fighting to keep her eyes open.
    "I love you my darling girl." Then her eyes closed and I knew my mother was gone.