The Old Mirror Read online

  THE

  OLD MIRROR

  NATASHA MOSTAFA

  Copyright © 2022 by Natasha Mostafa.

  ISBN:

  Softcover

  978-1-6698-4778-6

  eBook

  978-1-6698-4777-9

  All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

  This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

  Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Getty Images are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

  Certain stock imagery © Getty Images.

  Rev. date: 09/28/2022

  Xlibris

  844-714-8691

  www.Xlibris.com

  846991

  CONTENTS

  Chapter 1

  Chapter 2

  Chapter 3

  Chapter 4

  Chapter 5

  Chapter 6

  Chapter 7

  Chapter 8

  Chapter 9

  Chapter 10

  Chapter 11

  Chapter 12

  Chapter 13

  CHAPTER 1

  I am a member of the royal family. My name is Lucy - Princess Lucy Dwin. I am an 18-year-old girl, a blue-eyed brunette, standing not so tall at five feet and five inches. In two days’ time, it will be my coronation day. Sounds like a dream come true, right? I did feel that way ever since I was a little girl, and soon enough I would be crowned Queen- Queen Lucy Dwin of Malina! Right now I am in the castle’s kitchen, taste-testing the pastries and desserts.

  “Oh yes, I would love to have these on the day of my coronation, do prepare them for me please!” I urged the bakers and they nodded, smiling widely as their eyes widened in delight. It was an expression of pure satisfaction and contentment that my remark had brought them. They’re all wonderful people whose loyalty towards my family for so many years has been significant. Their work has never gone unnoticed and has always been well rewarded.

  “Keep it up everyone!” I encouraged the cooks and bakers as they were working efficiently so far.

  “Hmm... I wonder what mother is up to,” the curious cat in me pondered. I got a little restless and started walking up the long flights of stone stairs that led to my parents’ bedroom. As tiring as I might have been, today wasn’t that day to feel any exhaustion as I was still thrilled. I didn’t let anything push that away, that was a certainty.

  After I had climbed up all those stairs, I paused and sighed deeply. I will admit, my legs were aching. After a minute, I finally rose from slouching over just a bit so I could take a deep breath.

  Okay, I’ll get to their room now like I had intended.

  I noticed the door was shut, so I tried turning the doorknob, but it was locked. I knocked on the door but there was no answer from the other side. I hollered, “Hello?! Mother….. father?!” It was silent for a second time.

  “Where could they?” I thought to myself. I considered that they were in the ballroom, perhaps. For the preparations, our head servant, Mr. Natwick was in charge of them 24/7. My parents and I admire him so much for his service. If you are ever in need of help, you can always count on Natwick.

  At The Ballroom

  I spotted Natwick chatting with my mother.

  “She can’t see him anymore. I can’t have my daughter catching feelings for our enemy’s son! He would be a terrible influence on her...” My mother heaved a sigh of despair.

  “What if she does change?” she whispered as her voice stumbled over pitch, I saw tears starting to form in her eyes. She and Natwick were still oblivious to my attention to their discussion.

  The boy she’s talking about is Justin- Justin Lotto. A few months ago, was when we got met in secrecy. The secrecy lasted until a few days ago when my parents found out, and so did he. I had completely forgotten about it all, because I could not imagine that he would be coming to my coronation celebration along with his family. Perhaps they are going to, and it explains my mother’s reactions.

  How can I convince my parents that Justin is just a great companion of mine, and not a bad person at all?

  “Mother, I will never change, you know that far too well. Besides, what has caused you and father to fight with Justin’s family all the time? Can you all never try to get along?!” I shrieked out of frustration, to which Natwick and my mother turned around to me in surprise. My mother turned her gaze to Natwick. Natwick nodded, insinuating that it was time for me to know about it all.

  After explaining

  “You’re saying that you and father, and Justin’s parents used to be the closest of friends? You told me how much you both hated them for their gambling and their irrational contempt towards both of you….” I said in disbelief. I had no idea... Now I feel so bad for yelling at them without knowing anything.

  “I’m so sorry for yelling at you!” My mother gave me a big and warm hug.

  “Don’t be. I should be the one apologizing.” she said, while she wiped the tears off her face. She released me from the embrace.

  “Your father is very protective of you, and he doesn’t want to see you hurt. I don’t know what to think now, the Lotto family might just show up,” my mother sighed. I told her that I’ll try to convince father that Justin is a good person. He is my best friend, and he would never hurt me.

  “If you say so, Lucy. It will be your big day soon.” My mother answered, still looking guilty and upset at what she had said earlier.

  “It’s alright, mother. I know you’re also trying to keep me safe, and believe me, I know that!” I reassured her. Mother looked at me and a smile spread to the corners of her lips.

  “I’ll be going to father now. Bye mother, bye Natwick!” I said my goodbye to the two of them as I started walking aimlessly looking for my father…I had no idea where he was.

  “Your father is outside!” My mother yelped, so I could hear from a distance. That really helped me in seeking him. Thanks so much, mother.

  I made my way to our vast backyard, through the fancy glass-centered doors with the wood surrounding them on all its straight edges. I start by going to our beautiful garden as it is still in thriving condition. My mother planted her favorite flowers, roses, daisies, buttercups, and orchids. No sign of father yet.

  “Lucy!” I hear my father yelling my name out. I spun around to see him gesturing to me to come his way. I ran towards him and saw that he was already with the Lotto family. Really?! But I did not see Justin anywhere.

  “Hello father. They must be-” he cut me off with, “Yes, yes. The two of them want to have a talk with you about your big day! I’ll leave you to it,” my dad mentioned suddenly before leaving.

  Hold on, since when did my father become so convinced about all of this going well? That’s what it seemed like from what I could make out from his tone. I knew what mother was talking about, him being so protective of me, and usually he’s more rigid and strict about his final decisions. I mean, Justin’s parents are right in front of me, perhaps I should start a conversation…

  “Hello, King and Queen Lotto,” I greeted them politely and bowed. They both gave me an uneasy smile in return.

  “So, will you both be coming to the coronation this Saturday?” I asked curiously.

  “Oh of course. It would be such a great pleasure. Also, we’re so happy for you! Just to think, you’ll be a queen in two days.” King Lotto uttered in a bit of discombobulated fashion. It sent a chill down my spine. I asked with a bit of hesitation, “Uhm, where is Justin?”

  “We don’t know where he scurried off to, but he said he was going to look for you.” Queen Lotto told me, with an unpleasant grin on her face. That was my chance to finally get out of this!

  “Thank you! I’ll go find him now, so he doesn’t get lost!” I said while giving them a sheepish smile and started my escape as I walked briskly back inside the castle.

  That was so awkward. What was with them and their weird tones and looks? Does my mother know about them attending my coronation? Would she really be alright with it? Am I just worrying over nothing? No! My coronation is a day away - I have been waiting for all my life! Nothing is going to stop that from happening!

  CHAPTER 2

  In The Castle Fitting Rooms

  “What do you think, princess?” Penelope, one of the several castle maids, asked eagerly. I was awed by how perfectly the gown fit me. Its soft rosy color, made of the finest silk that shone with each step I took while wearing it. What complimented it were the matching rose-patterned off-the-shoulder sleeves, and the luminescent sparkle starting from the top all the way down to the trail.

  “I think it’s amazing, Penelope!” I answered with great delight. I did not want to say it was the one just yet, because there were still a few others I wanted to try on.

  “Justin, what do you think about it?” I asked him while I saw his eyes widen. I giggled, “Earth
to Justin?” I caught him off-guard.

  “You look…. beautiful in it, Lucy.” He whispered coyly; I’ve never seen him so shy before!

  “Aww! I’m happy you like it too!” I smiled warmly towards him. He brushed his wavy blonde hair back and did not say much for a while.

  “I will be getting the second dress, so I will leave you two alone for some time,” Penelope informed me.

  “Sounds good! But I can already tell that this dress might be my ultimate favorite.” I said. Penelope simply shrugged and went to fetch the second one. “Oh well, let us see how you like the next one!” She paid attention to my preferences while she picked out the mild, rose gown I had tried on earlier. Now I am so excited to see the second dress she picked out for me.

  “Uh, hey Lucy? Can I talk to you about something?” Justin asked. My heart started pounding, I lost myself staring into his eyes. He awoke me from my bewilderment.

  “Lucy, Lucy! I asked you if I could talk to you about something?”

  “Oh yeah, sorry, I just got a bit distracted, that’s all! Sure, you can tell me anything, Justin! What is going on?” I finally asked. He let out a sigh and started walking closer towards me. Coming closer, he lifted my chin up, and leaned forward.

  “I know you might be worried about my parents and yours not getting along, but I promise you that your coronation will be just like you wanted it,” he whispered in his deep voice. I could feel my cheeks flush, and my heart started beating out of my chest. He kissed my forehead gently, “I’ll definitely be there for you.” Justin said sincerely as I pulled him in a tight embrace.

  “Eeeeeh! I knew you would be happy too!” I squealed, unable to contain so much joy. His eyes widened as he hugged me back. I looked up at him to see he looked somewhat flustered. I let go of him, “Sorry, sorry! I can get a bit carried away.” I said sheepishly, my cheeks still a crimson-like color.

  “It’s no bother... And, are you okay? Your cheeks look very hot,” he reminded me. Oh shoot, what do I say? Oh, I just have feelings for you! I’m in love with you! No, it is not the right time to tell him that. “I’m fine, Justin. Trust me!” I brushed it off, pretending it was no big deal. He sneered and patted my head lightly.

  “Well, if you say so,” he teased playfully.

  “Alright princess, I have the next gown right here!” Penelope entered the room. I took one glimpse of the dress. I will say it looks quite nice! A dark purple colour, with a sequin-covered corset, a black bow belt that I could adjust according to whether I would like it to show at the front or the back. The ruffles were my favorite part of it all. Although, I am still leaning towards the first dress. I did not tell Penelope, because she had already brought it, and I wanted to at least try it on lest she felt her work was done in vain.

  Second Dress Opinion

  “You can open them now!” Penelope prompted eagerly. It was not particularly because she probably liked the second gown better herself, but because she is as thrilled and excited as I am - she is a very jubilant and positive girl! She has been one of my many supporters at the castle. I did try it on as she had asked me to do, and I looked at my reflection in the mirror. I did not know what to say...

  “Does this one changes your mind about the last?” she smiled.

  “Hmm, not so much. The colour does not really satisfy me. It is a nice dress, but it won’t do it for me,” I finalised. She looked a little disappointed as she was hoping it would grow on me, but she was very respectful of my opinion. I saw my mother coming in and father followed soon.

  “Did you choose your dress yet?” my mother curiously asked.

  “Not yet, but I do have a certain pick right now. We’re on the third dress,” I responded.

  “What are you doing here?” my father asked Justin strictly. Justin smiled a nervous smile.

  “I’m just here to support your daughter! Well, she even asked me to, and I agreed.” Father’s stern face softened, and he smiled at Justin. He still looked at Justin with his sharp gaze, but Justin was relieved, nonetheless.

  “I am happy, if that is the case...” He said while giving Justin a faint smile. I descended from the platform and walked towards my parents.

  “Father, please go easy on him. He’s my best friend!” I told him as he looked back at Justin, then turned his head to me.

  “I’m only doing this because it will be your coronation day, and I want you to be happy.” he said sincerely, making me smile with relief.

  “Thank you so much, father!” I hugged him tightly. I pulled away as he began to speak again. “You two can run along now, and Lucy, you can get back to finding the perfect dress later today, okay?” “Okay! I’ll get changed out of this dress now,” I answered obediently.

  CHAPTER 3

  Justin and I agreed on taking a stroll through the “mysterious forest” as he called it, near his castle; which wasn’t too far away. I’ve never seen his family’s castle before, and now I finally get the opportunity to. As I was staring up ahead, my head was lifted in amazement of Justin’s castle. I do say it does look relatively different, as it has a much darker color palette as it was painted; I still liked the structure though!

  “The forest is down there! Follow me!” Justin motioned to where it was, as he took me by the hand. We started making our way into the forest.

  When we were just outside the entryway, I looked straight ahead into the forest. Right now, judging by the sky, it was somewhere in the afternoon. Maybe that was the reason it looked so dark from here?

  “Is it safe to go in there?” I asked, disconcerted. “Don’t worry, Lucy. I’ll always be here to protect you!” he said with so much sincerity. I believed him, and we proceeded to move further and further inside the forest.

  At first, the ambience felt rather ominous and uncomfortable, but the delightful nature that was around eased my fears concerning the deep, dark forest. It was actually blissfully beautiful. Now it didn’t seem so uncanny, but I was a bit confused as to why Justin would call it “the mysterious forest” when he asked me to go on a stroll with him. It might have been the external gloom to its real beauty, which was my discovery I was just talking about. Maybe that was what he meant.

  “Have you been here before?” I asked him out of curiosity. He turned his face towards me. “I have been here a couple of times.” We continued with our little discussion. I asked him what he liked about the forest throughout his first visit.

  “Well, I really liked the flowers we just passed by. I don’t know if you noticed, but they’re shimmering...” He told me when turning back, to the certain flowers and them glistening right at that very moment. I was very bewildered, but also astonished and intrigued in a way. Where would you ever see blue bells sparkling on their own?

  I realised I had stepped on something; I looked below to see that it was a mirror. I didn’t crack it, so I slowly bent down to pick it up.

  “Hey, I found this mirror laying by the blue bells,” I told Justin as I was rubbing the dirt off it with my fingers. It was a medium-sized mirror, rectangular in shape with a black frame enclosing it. I turned around to see that Justin had disappeared. He was nowhere to be found.

  “Hello? Justin?! Where did you go?!” I called his name out, worried about his sudden disappearance. I noticed my hands beginning to sparkle, and in the blink of an eye...

  I was in a completely different world.

  “Where am I?” I thought to myself, utterly confused.

  “Why, hello there! Welcome to our enchanted realm!” A fairy greeted me.

  “Hello...” I hesitantly replied. She was wearing a sparkly pink dress, white shoes that scintillated from even a distance, and her large wings were a beautiful match for her dress. She dazzled in the darkness of the wilderness.

  I began to ponder what time it was at the moment. I started to look around, and I caught the sight of Justin. He noticed me and gestured for me to go over to him.

  “How did we get here?” I asked him, still in surprise. He looked like he had answers to my question.