Kiana stretched, feeling the warmth of the sun peeking through her window. "What a wonderful day today!" she exclaimed. Her mom, Mrs. Maire, stood in the doorway with a gentle smile. "Good morning, dear," she said. Kiana's face lit up, and she replied, "Hi, Mom! Good morning!"
After a hearty breakfast, Kiana grabbed her bag. "Mom, I have to go. Bye!" she said, waving goodbye.
Kiana peeked into the dancers' room, mesmerized by the Bedazzled dancers' graceful movements. "Wow, they're incredible!" she whispered, her eyes wide with wonder. Cassandra, a renowned Showgirl, caught her staring. "You'll never be like us," she sneered, raising an eyebrow. Kiana trembled. "L-Lady Cassandra?" she stammered.
Cassandra's gaze narrowed. "What brings you here?" Kiana hesitated, intimidated. "I...I just—" Cassandra's laughter cut her off. "Dreaming of joining us? You can't be serious. Lowly people like you can't afford the luxury of Bedazzled dance training." Kiana's face flushed, and she fell speechless. Cassandra's parting shot stung. "Only nobles become Showgirls. You're far from qualified," she said before strutting away.
Ms. Vance's voice interrupted the awkward exchange. "Cassandra, let's begin!" Cassandra smirked. "Coming, Ms. Vance." Kiana's eyes stung, but determination ignited within her.
As Cassandra departed, Axel Eckhart appeared. "Hi! You okay?" he asked with a warm smile. Kiana forced a smile. "Yeah, I'm fine." Axel's eyes narrowed. "You're lying. Your eyes give it away." Kiana sighed, surrendering. "I just got rejected from the Showgirls. Cassandra said it's expensive." Axel's expression turned thoughtful. "Cassandra Baroque?" Kiana nodded. "Her father's a Duke. They're nobility, and I'm sure everyone admiring them" Axel's smile returned. "No one can replace you, Kiana. For me; you shine brighter than any title." Their eyes met, and they shared a heartfelt smile.
Later, Kiana knelt amidst the vibrant blooms, her hands gently pruning the flowers. Leonard the farmer approached, his voice low. "Hey Kiana, the Duke's older daughter is arriving," He whispered. Kiana's head jerked up, eyes wide. "Really?" Leonard nodded. "Yes, let's tidy up these flowers before she comes. She's from Aldovia." Kiana's curiosity piqued. "Oh!" Leonard leaned in. "Do you know that Older Lady Cashiopine is always so serious?" Kiana raised an eyebrow. "Is that so?" Leonard smiled slyly. "Yes, I think it's nice that she remains calm, unlike her sister, Lady Cassandra, who has a worse attitude." Kiana's laughter echoed through the garden.
Kiana stepped into the cozy warmth of her home, shedding the day's worries. Her mother's welcoming smile and open arms enveloped her. "Welcome home, Kiana!" Mrs. Maire exclaimed, eyes sparkling. "Hi, Mom," Kiana replied, dropping her bag beside the door. Mrs. Maire's gaze fell upon the books laid out on the table. "Look at my industrious daughter, studying already!" Her voice dripped with pride. Kiana's cheeks flushed, and she smiled, taking a seat beside her mother.
But her mind lingered on the garden conversation. "Mom, do you think Ms. Cassandra is right?" Kiana asked, her brow furrowed. "Only noble people can become dancers?" Mrs. Maire's expression softened. "Why let Cassandra's words trouble you, dear?" Kiana's determination ignited. "I've dreamed of dancing since childhood. Now, I'm determined to make it happen. I'll work hard and save money to achieve my dream." Mrs. Maire's eyes searched Kiana's face. "Kiana, dear, you don't need to burden yourself financially. Your passion is enough." Kiana's voice trembled. "This is my heart, Mom. I genuinely want to work hard for it." Mrs. Maire's gaze lingered, her eyes misting. Then, a warm smile spread across her face. "You'll shine brighter than any star, Kiana," she whispered.
As Kiana worked in the garden, Axel's voice cut through the serene atmosphere. "Kiana!" he called softly. She turned, her smile radiant. "Axel." Axel's eyes roved her busy hands. "Need help?" Kiana's laughter chimed. "Okay." Curiosity sparked in Axel's gaze. "Why the floral frenzy? What's the occasion?" "The Duke's daughter arrives today."
Kiana's answered. Erwin Brou's voice boomed across the garden. "Welcome back to Elyria, Lady Cashiopine." Cashiopine's poised smile acknowledged the greeting. Mrs. Maire curtsied deeply. "It's lovely to see you again, Your Grace. It's been four years, and I've missed you terribly." Cashiopine's confusion was evident. "Did I know you?" Cassandra's eyes narrowed suspiciously at Mrs. Maire.