Investigation

“1...2...3...4,” says the dance instructor.

Penelope twirls and then bows gracefully. Her body is full of adrenaline as the thoughts of last night resurface in her mind. The way Kenneth’s body felt hot to the touch against hers. She takes a misstep and falls onto the wooden floor.

“Are you alright?” asks Crystal, her maid, by the doorway.

“Yes, don’t worry,” says Penelope, pushing herself up from the floor.

Penelope hears snickering from the other half-dozen ladies in the dance class. They are so immature. Maybe that’s why she has no close friends, even though her mother insisted she try. To be honest, Crystal is her only confident in the castle.

“That’s a wrap, class,” says the dance instructor.

The ladies and Penelope gather their belongings and change into the dressing room next to the dancing room. Crystal follows Penelope to assist her. Class ends in time for breakfast. Penelope’s stomach growls in a low tone.

“Are you done yet?” asks Penelope.