Disclaimer: I do not own Cinderella or any of the characters
Chapter 1. Stairs
Ella stepped out of the pumpkin carriage and onto the smooth stone pavement, a warm spurt of energy coursed through her body as she turned her sea green eyes to the wide set of stairs leading to the royal palace. She looked down at her dress- blue, silk and absolutely stunning. She still couldn't believe that this was actually happening. In the last 24 hrs, not only had she met a handsome prince, but had also been invited to a royal ball by said prince. At first she didn't think she was going to make it, courtesy to her oppressive step-family, but then her Fairy-flipping-Godmother showed up and gifted her with a horse and carriage, as well as the dress and glass slippers that she now wore.
Hmm, these shoes are pretty comfy considering they are entirely made of glass, she thought, sticking out her foot to look at the glimmering slippers. I wonder if they'll still be as comfy as the night draws on, she though with a small frown.
Looking back up at the palace, she began her way up the stairs, slightly lifting her skirt as she did so as not to trip over. Around her were various groups of men and women clad in dark suits and extravagant gowns. Ella carefully looked around the crowd, keeping an eye out for her horrid step-mother and sisters. If they saw her, then it would all be over. She could see the top of the stairs and a large smile spread across her face. She was almost there. Within minutes she would be dancing in the strong embrace of the prince.
Finally, she stepped onto the stone courtyard and her breath hitched. Before her stood the magnificent ballroom, its doors wide open and spilling bright yellow light into the darkness of the night. She paused before the doors, once again a warm tingle travelled up her legs, spread throughout her torso, and shot down her arms, pooling in her fingertips, making them ache slightly. There room was so big and was filled with so many people. Her wide smile slightly shrunk into a frown.
How am I going to find the prince? What if I can't find the prince? What if he's already dancing with someone else? What if-
She stopped and shook her head. Her smile once again returned and she looked up at the clock above the ballroom doors.
"8 o'clock. You've got 4 hrs Ella, make it count," she muttered to herself before raising her chin, swept a lock of blonde hair behind her ear, and without hesitation, walked into the ballroom.
