Once upon a time, there was a very kind girl.
Her name was Ella.
She lived happily with her father.
Ella had fine clothes and jewelry.
She had a big room with a warm, cozy bed.
And there was always plenty of food.
One day Ella and her father were walking in town.
Wonderful smells came from the bakery.
"Let's get a treat," Father said.
Ella saw a young beggar sitting in the town square.
"That poor boy," Ella said.
"Father, can we please get something for him?"
Father smiled warmly.
"You are very kind, Ella."
Father bought some bread.
Ella gave it to the boy.
"Thank you, miss," the boy said.
A few days later, Ella saw Father in the garden.
"You look happy, Father," she said.
Father laughed. "I have exciting news!"
"I met a lovely lady," Father said.
"We're going to get married!"
Ella gasped. "Father, I'm so happy for you!"
A week later Father got married.
Ella's new stepmother had two daughters.
The older daughter was tall and thin.
The younger one was short and plump.
"It's nice to meet you!" Ella said.
The two daughters smiled.
So did their mother.
But there was a nasty look in her eyes.