ANASTASIA

I groaned, rolling against the bed. I felt a movement above my head, and I knew it was no other than Coco sharing my pillow.

Another feeling was close to my chest, snuggled right there was Boba. He loved the idea of listening to my heartbeat a lot. With a yawn I forced myself to sit up. Ugh, my head!

How much did I drink last night? I hope I didn’t finish the whole bottle. That was sure to get on my record, if I even have one.

Sleepily, I got out of bed, rubbing my eyes as I strolled straight to the bathroom to pee. After doing my business, I brushed my teeth and washed my face.

It didn’t stop the headache, but it was tolerable, and I wasn’t squinting to see anymore.

I don’t know how I got to my room, but I’m glad I did it safely without any trouble.

I wish I could remember how, though. The more I tried to think, the heavier my head got, so I chose not to do any thinking at the moment.

I sat on the cushioned stool in front of the vanity table, taking in my appearance. I look like I just crawled out of a swamp.

Fuck! I reached for my skincare but hestiated, turning my head to the blue box sitting on the coffee table.

I don’t recall having that in here. Curious, I pushed to my feet, moving toward the box, and grabbed it.

It’s a shoebox, and this brand is...! No... way!

I opened it and pulled out the most beautiful soft powder blue ballet shoes I have ever seen.

I gasped in awe. I have always wanted this! The other girls at the academy have always talked about this brand.

These were Élarisse, custom-made, imported, and outrageously expensive. I can’t believe I’m holding them in my hands right now.

H-How is this possible?

Zade. That one name echoed in my head; he was the only one who had access to my room.

Shit! I completely forgot he could come in whenever he wants.

I dropped my gaze to my nightdress. I don’t have any panties on either, and I don’t exactly sleep like a princess.

My cheeks burned. Holy shit! That assholic snake!

I sighed, sitting on the floor. Coco and Boba scurried to me, but I was too busy pressing the sole firmly between my hands.

Then I pressed down the shoes into the floor, softening the toe box with a hard press.

I pushed to my feet, walking to my vanity table to grab a sewing kit. A few more desired interactions and they were perfect.

I slid them on, tying up the ribbons. There was a smile on my lips as I checked them out. It was utterly exquisite.

I stood on my feet, before going on my tiptoe and down, repeating the action before curving one foot, testing the smoothness.

I did a pirouette, but that was a mistake on my part. Everything wobbled as I struggled to sit down and catch my breath

Either I’m out of practice, or I’m never drinking again.

Taking it slow, I moved to the center and did a split. "Phew! That’s better."

I stretched, my upper body going backwards, my hands following. I was a bit sore, but I got the hang of it.

However, as quickly as my smile formed, the faster it fell, the feelings from yesterday caught up to me.

What’s the point of this?

I ceased my split, forcibly taking off my shoe and tossing it across the room.

I’m never leaving this manor. I’m gonna be trapped here forever. Zade probably gave me that shoe to spite me. I wouldn’t be surprised if he builds a studio.

"Screw him!" I screamed, breaking down in tears, not just because of my seemingly lost career but because of everything else that had been taken away from me.

I have lost everyone and everything in my life. I’m so scared and confused right now because it feels like it’s never gonna end.

The knock on the door pulled my attention. I sobbed. "Who is it?"

"Madam, it’s me, Cynthia."

I quickly dried up my tears and walked to unlock the door.

"Good morning, madam!" she chirped.

I winced, closing my eyes briefly. "Not so loud."

"Are you okay?"

"I think what I need is an aspirin. My brain is pulsing."

"I’ll get that for you. Oh, and your phone..." She handed me the device. "Found it in the kitchen."

"Thanks." I checked my notifications to see tons of missed calls from a number.

"I’ll be back right away, madam."

I nodded in reply, closing the door, and my phone rang. It’s that same number again. Brushing my hair backwards, I answered.

"Hello?"

"Mrs. Salvero."

I stopped in my tracks, my face twisted in a frown. "Who is this?"

"Oh, where are my manners? This is Genevieve Valmont, Director of Valmont Academy."

My eyes slowly widened. OH MY GOD!

"M-Mrs. Valmont. F-Forgive me, I didn’t know—"

I was cut short by her laugh.

"It’s alright, Mrs. Salvero. You weren’t expecting my call, so I understand your surprise."

"Yes, I wasn’t... I mean, silly me. T-This is an honor!"

"The honor is all mine. I just wanted you to know I’m looking forward to your return, whenever you’re ready. Although your honeymoon is over, I’m sure you will need some extra time before resuming fully."

Was my honeymoon over?

"O-O-Of course..." I stuttered so badly I wanted to slap myself.

This was Genevieve Valmont; she was basically my role model! And I grew up watching her take the stage, and I worked so hard to be that person one day.

"I’m glad to hear that. Lemme know when you do and we’ll see."

"A-Alright."

The call ended, and I just stood there, still in shock. See? I was gonna see Genevieve Valmont?!

Wait...! She said my resumption... Does that mean I could still attend the academy? She was expecting my return; it was almost as if she knew for certain I’d come back, and she was waiting for me. Me.

Is this why Zade gifted me those shoes?