Eighty-One

Ashanti

I sat patiently as my aunt applied makeup to my face and transformed me into someone unrecognizable. I now looked like Aunt Aurora and her minions. The black pixie wig was carefully placed on me after my natural hair was tucked in.

When I glanced at my reflection in the mirror I laughed. She handed me a long green dress and a transparent veil.

“I need you to lie in bed and face the wall. I don't want anyone to see you,” she said while calling for a maid.

I swiftly turned to face the wall, positioning myself on the bed to appear like I was asleep. The maid made her entry and I remained still.

“How long have you been serving in this house?”Aunt Sasha asked her. The maid didn't answer immediately and I could tell she was suspicious.

“Four years now, madam.”

“Why do you sound like I'm some stranger? I'm, after all, the King's sister.”

The silence that followed Aunt Sasha's words was awkward before my aunt spoke again.

“I heard there's a dungeon somewhere in the house. Could y