The Book Traveler Part 3

That night, I spent the night lying in some tall grass nearby the house. Apparently, nobody around here has heard of a lawn mower. June got called back inside the house for something and she went inside, trying her best to be normal. The next day, June met me outside to decipher the plan.

“So,” I ask June. “What’s up?”

“This morning after I made breakfast,” June replied. “I begged to be allowed to go to the ball, because the first night is tonight, and then the stepmother said that if I could do a bunch of chores I could go. Then, the stepsisters made a big mess in the fireplace. Now I must clean it up. And do a ton of other chores.”

“You did good.” I spoke. “That’s what’s supposed to happen.”

“Could you help me with the chores?” June asked.

“Sure.” I reply.

“Good.” June says. “The stepmother and stepsisters have left for some errands, so we have time to kill.

We spend the next two hours cleaning. Finally, the house is clean, and the chores are done.

“We did it!” I shout.

“Not so loud.” June whispers. “We still have work to do.”

“What else is there to be done?” I ask, exhausted.

“We should look through the story and plan for what happens next.” June said, holding out the book.

I sigh and take the book.

“Okay.” I speak. “It says here that when the stepfamily is ready to go, they will leave you behind. Then, you go cry on the roots of the tree and it gives you a dress and you go and dance with the prince until midnight. Do you understand?” “Yes.” June replied nervously. “But… but what if I don’t want to marry the prince? ” “We’ll find a different way out.” I said. “But you might need to dance with him for one night.”

“I guess I can do that.” June sighed.

“Great.” I reply. “So, how are your dancing skills?” “Their pretty good.” June replies. She starts waltzing with a broom to demonstrate.

“Great!” I laugh. “You’re going to need them.”

Three hours later, I am outside hiding behind the tree. June has been inside helping the stepfamily get ready to go to the ball. The front door bursts open and out came three women dressed in beautiful gowns. They enter a carriage as June races outside.

“Wait!” She cries. “You said I could go! Please let me come with you!”

The horse pulling the carriage whinnies and races off.

“NO!” June yells, for dramatic affect. Tears are streaming down her face as she walks over to the tree. She cries, and one of the fruits on the tree bursts and a beautiful red dress spills out along with two golden slippers. June gasps and wipes away her tears. Then she hurries inside and comes out wearing the dress and slippers. She looks stunning. Her long auburn hair in an elegant bun.

“How do I look?” June asks.

“Breath taking.” I reply. “Has anybody told you you’re a good actor?” “Yes.” She says. “But now, I think we should focus on getting to the ball.”

To Be Continued.