Chapter 3

Staring at the door, Daisy looked at the peeling paint work that folded round the rusty brass door knob. Gingerly, she reached out her hand to swallow up the handle and, as she touched it, she felt magic spring into life. She entered.

The room was perfect: flowers bloomed as she walked by; colourful fruit hung down of trees; and a stream slithered down the fields. In the centre, an old cottage stood shinning in the morning light. Tweeting birds flew over the cottage, as roses climbed against the garden walls and round the windows. The door was open; the sweet smell of freshly baked cakes wafted out into this new world. Without thinking, Daisy merrily skipped down the gravel path towards the cottage.

She was met by silence. The house had everything that you might need: a cosy sitting room with a sofa and a wood fire burning brightly; a tiny kitchen with purple cups and plates; a table that was set for two with a teapot steaming loudly. She loved this place. It was really perfect. She made her way up the stairs to a darkened landing.

Without warning, the sky turn black and she was left in darkness. Terror filled her body. She was all alone in this mysterious land. Down below, creaking floorboards crackled; the sound of talons hoping on the floor. Perching on the stairs, she waited. Something was ready. Goosebumps prickled her body. She would have to stay there until it was over. Suddenly, kicking at the door, she ran. Daisy didn’t care to look back; not until she was where the door was. But now it wasn’t there. It was gone!