She had to reach the clock tower before the clock struck 12. This was no Cinderella story though. She was no princess nor was she going to turn into a servant. There was no coach or chauffeur or horses for her that transform again into pumpkin and mice. There was no fairy godmother, magic dust, elegant dresses or glass slippers. There was no midnight ball or handsome charming prince either. But there was magic in the air. In each cell of her body. In every beat of her heart.

The tower was glittering with decorative lights. It looked beautiful against the dark night and handful of stars sprinkled around it, with the clock face shining like the full moon. She will not see this sky again. She will not see these celebrations and festivities again. As she sneaked in and climbed up the stairs, the world below was getting ready to welcome the new year.

Continue reading: A Different Time