I pick my pouch and go to the tailor in the central market. Freshly baked bread’s aroma hangs low in the square. It’s packed with a lot of people today, squeezing against each other. Of course, every young lass has to look her best. An old, hunched woman is walking at the snail’s pace is front of me. I swiftly cross her then glance at the two coins shimmering in my palm; not bad for my pickpocketing skills. A beggar spots the coins and hustles towards me, clad in rags and prattling the usual beggar rattle. “Miz, do you have a penny or two? I’ve not had food.” I try my level best to hold my breath and ignore him, but he keeps chasing close behind me. I turn and sharply say, “piss off! Your breath stinks!” He makes an odd expression like he’s surprised. Seriously? I hurry away.
The tailor is a big, bald guy who always keeps my dresses ready on time as I am the most innocent girl in town. He thinks I am a whiny little orphan in distress. In truth, I couldn’t ever be that, not even in a parallel universe. The tailor hands me the dress, and I pay him some extra coins. It’s a measure to ensure that my spell of kindness looms large over him.
By the time evening falls, Anastasia and Drusilla have massaged my feet and given me a hot, scented bath. I shoo them away, reminding them they need to get ready. It’s only when the door shuts close behind me that I pull out my gown. Oh, my! It’s beautiful. I run a hand down the soft, sky blue fabric made of the finest silk in town, embossed with a slightly dark shade of blue velvet and embedded with tiny, glittering diamantes. I, Cinderella, am going to amplify the beauty of this gown. Satisfied, I hug the dress and twirl around in circles until I finally put it on. It’s a perfect fit, hugging my curves at the right places. A trail of extra cloth runs behind me. Exotic! I dab a good amount of pink balm on my lips, rub on some rose oils and pinch my cheeks to a blush. Huh! I look gorgeous! Prince Charming won’t be able to tear his eyes off me!
On my way out, Mr. Mouse blocks my path. I glare at him, how dare he! His eyes are wide and begging as he asks, ” Cinderella, please! Can I have some cheese?” Cheese? Like seriously, do I have time for this? I roll my eyes and charge toward the door. I hear a tiny squeak and realize I just walked over him. Oh, whatever! I yell for my sisters, and we head to the royal palace.
Thats quite a efreshing take on cindrella!
Thanks a bunch, Anum ^-^