Once upon a time, there lived a sweet girl named Ella who loved to laugh, sing, and care for all the animals in her little garden. Everyone called her Cinderella because, after doing chores, she always ended up with smudges of ash and soot from the fireplace. She didn’t mind, though—she was kind and cheerful no matter what. But her stepmother and two stepsisters weren’t so nice. They made her clean the house, wash their clothes, and even polish their shoes! And did they ever say thank you? Not even once!

One day, a royal messenger arrived with exciting news: the prince was throwing a grand ball to find his perfect match! Cinderella’s stepsisters squealed and ran in circles, dreaming about fancy dresses and shiny jewelry. Cinderella clapped her hands and asked, "Can I go too?" But her stepmother narrowed her eyes and said, "Only if you finish ALL your chores and find something suitable to wear." Then she chuckled, knowing Cinderella wouldn’t have time or a dress good enough.

The big day arrived, and Cinderella’s stepsisters twirled around in their glittery outfits while her stepmother barked orders. Poor Cinderella stayed behind, scrubbing the floor as her family left for the ball. She sighed and whispered, "I wish I could go." Suddenly, SPARKLE! A magical fairy godmother appeared, carrying a wand and wearing sneakers. "Hey there, Cinderella! No need to be glum. I’m here to help!" she said with a wink. Before Cinderella could say anything, the fairy godmother waved her wand, and POOF! Cinderella was dressed in the most dazzling gown, with glass slippers that sparkled like stars. "Now, off you go! Just don’t forget—be back before midnight!" said the fairy godmother.

Cinderella arrived at the ball, and everyone turned to look. Even the prince stopped in his tracks. "Who is she?" he wondered aloud. They danced and laughed all evening, and Cinderella felt like she was in a dream. But just as the clock struck midnight, she remembered the fairy godmother’s warning. "I have to go!" she gasped and dashed away, leaving behind one tiny glass slipper on the staircase.

The prince was determined to find the mysterious girl. The next day, he sent his servants to search the kingdom with the glass slipper. "Only the girl whose foot fits will be my true love!" he announced. When the servants reached Cinderella’s house, her stepsisters pushed and shoved to try on the slipper, but their feet were too big. Cinderella quietly said, "May I try?" and, of course, the slipper fit perfectly! The prince arrived moments later, and his smile lit up the room. "It’s you," he said. "Will you join me at the palace?"

Cinderella grinned and replied, "Yes, but only if my animal friends can visit!" The prince laughed, and together they lived happily ever after, surrounded by kindness and joy.

If you stay kind, even when things get tough, magical things can happen!