Where Magic Lies

“Once upon a time," she began. And we all know the rest. A bitter stepmother. Spoiled stepsisters. The stroke of midnight like the pop of a bubble.

"But you see, that is where magic lies. Here, let me show you."

She turned to her niece, who had wonder in her eyes. Together, they watched a hundred stories float softly to the ground, fragile as glass. In one, a princess learned to love. In another, two siblings reunited against all odds.

"What is our story?" her niece asked softly.

The witch laughed. "We add the magic."

She popped another bubble.

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NYCMidnight 100-Word Microfiction Challenge 2022
Round 2 Prompts: Fairy Tale and/or Fantasy | Popping a Bubble | Bitter
Result: Did Not Place