Part 3: The Ball

During the ball, the Prince felt despondent.  “Why do you have that sad look on your face?” the Queen said to her son.  “You would think you weren’t at a royal ball your father and I are hosting just for you, so you can find a bride.”

“I know you and Father are looking out for me,” said the Prince.  Yet something was wrong. He had already met most of the young women at the ball, and after he said “Hello,” there was nothing more to say.

“Look!”  Someone pointed to the front door of the ballroom, at the top of the stairs.

All heads turned.  Who was that lovely maiden stepping down the stairs?  She held her head tall and stepped with grace and elegance. Who was she?  No one knew.

“There is something about that young lady,” said the Prince to himself.  “I will ask her to dance.” He walked over to Cinderella.

“Have we met?” said the Prince.

“I am pleased to meet you now,” said Cinderella with a bow.

“I feel as if I know you,” said the Prince.  “But of course, that’s impossible.”

“I feel as if I know you,” said the Prince.

“Many things are possible,” said Cinderella, “if you wish them to be true.”

“Do you really believe that?” said the Prince.

“I know it,” said Cinderella.

The Prince felt a leap in his heart.  He and Cinderella danced. When the song was over, they danced again.  And then again. All the time they were talking and laughing.  Soon the other maidens at the ball grew jealous.  “Why is he staying dance after dance with her?” they said. “Give someone else a chance.  How rude!”

But all the Prince wanted to do was to stay with Cinderella.   In fact, they danced so long that