“How was your ride?” Phoebus asked. I grinned at him.

“Amazing. I feel so free when I’m riding. Like nothing can stop me or hurt me. Phoebus put his hands on my hips and helped me down from Major.

"You know you really should ask for a transfer from the kitchen to down here. I know the animals would love to see you every day. You seem to have a way with them.”

“I would love to do that.” I petted Major’s neck.

“CINDERELLA!” I jumped and ran out of the stall to find Drizella waiting for me. “Jeez, it stinks in here.” She said waving a hand under her nose. “Cinderella what do you think you’re doing? Nothing’s been done yet and you’re out here playing with farm animals.”

“Today’s my day off, Drizella.”

“You may have a day off from your school work but not from me.” She walked over to me and fisted her hand in my hair close to the roots pulling my head to the side. She put her face close to mine and whispered. “You will never have a day off from me.” She let go of my hair only to dig her long nails into my shoulder until I could feel it bleed. “Get your chores done Cinderella.” Letting go of me she walked away her hips swinging in her tight green pants. I jumped when Phoebus put his hand on my uninjured shoulder.

“Does she always treat you like that?” I turned my face away from him so he wouldn’t see my tears.

“Treat me like what? I’m going to put Major away, but then I have to go okay.”