Page 9 of Meadowsweet and Marigold
2
STARTING A NEW FROM THE ROOT
~MARIGOLD~
Marigold's reflectionstared back at her, almost unrecognizable.
The mirror —once a trusted companion that had witnessed countless moments of preparation before performances— now showed a stranger with puffy, red-rimmed eyes.
The elegant dressing room of her little studio that had once been her sanctuary felt like a mausoleum of dreams.
Her hands trembled as she clutched the cream-colored envelope.
The Everhart Pack's official seal was broken, and the letter partially unfolded.
She couldn't bring herself to read it completely, not yet. The familiar scent of her former Alpha still clung to the paper —sandalwood and authority— making her Omega instincts curl with remembered submission.
"Stop it," she whispered to herself, her voice cracking. "They don't own you anymore."
They don’t deserve her. Not a group of Alphas who use your passions and dreams against you…who will spin a fairytale in your mind when all they wanted is her sister who looks no different from her.
The polished surface of her vanity reflected the scattered remnants of her career— makeup half-packed into cases, hairpins strewn across the surface, a pair of pointe shoes hanging from the corner of the mirror, their ribbons dangling like nooses.
She couldn’t take long.
The taxi was awaiting her outside, which time was precious. She’d have to face reality…whether she liked it or not.
With a deep breath, Marigold forced herself to unfold the letter completely.
Dear Ms. Everhart,
We hope this letter finds you well in your... current circumstances.
The formal tone couldn't mask the condescension. Marigold's stomach tightened as she continued reading.
The Crescent Moon Ballet Company has flourished under new leadership. As you may have heard, your sister Magnolia has graciously stepped into the principal role of Odette/Odile for our production of Swan Lake. The critics have been unanimous in their praise, with the Chronicle calling her "the definitive interpretation of our generation — erasing all memory of previous dancers in the role."
Marigold's fingers went numb.
That had been her signature role. The one she'd spent years perfecting.
Erased by the Omega who looks exactly like her.
How laughable all of this is…
Furthermore, the annual Moonlight Gala will proceed with Magnolia serving as chairwoman. The committee felt her vision better aligned with the pack's values moving forward.
"My gala," Marigold whispered, knees weakening. She reached for her chair, the plush velvet catching her as she sank down. "She's taking everything."
Literally everything.
Years of work.
Years of sacrifice.
Her eyes skimmed further down the page.
Your personal effects have been removed from the company locker room and pack house. They await your retrieval at the security desk. Please arrange collection at your earliest convenience, preferably during non-performance hours.
