4.
a Doll sits on its high shelf, watching as the Witches and the Dolls and their friends dance. the Doll counts the rhythm. 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3
it rises to its feet, holds its hands in position, draws a deep breath, and takes the first step. 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 spinning, twirling, back and forth, to and fro, 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3
the Doll closes its eyes, 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 the music seems so distant, almost like an echoed memory of a moment interrupted, a moment shared...
“Better every time I hear your art and soul, Doll”
the Doll's eyes snap open. the Witch smiles, their lips silently counting. 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 the Doll smiles too, as its eyes flash with recognition. this Witch always did have a way of making it feel seen. the Doll shakes its head. this isn't its Witch, though they might have been in another life. they dance for a time.
the Witch twirls onwards to their next dance. the Doll sits, its hands conducting a silent symphony
1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3