Chapter 2

Chapter TWO 'Today's the day!' yelled Dad on the evening of the vampire ball. He had got up especially early so that he would have lots of time to get ready. My hair must be as shiny as a mirror tonight!' he said. 'Isadora, are you all ready for your performance?' 'I think so,' I said, putting down my

piece of peanut butter on toast and suddenly not feeling very hungry anymore. If you like, you can borrow my great- great-great-grandfather's very special antique vampire comb, said Dad. 'The rubies will flash wonderfully under the stage lights!' 'That's OK,' I said. I don't want to lose it.

'You won't lose it,' said Dad. 'I'll keep it safe in my cape pocket and give it to you just before you go on stage!' 'OK,' I shrugged. I didn't really care what I used for my act. I just wanted to get it over with. Just then Mum came into the room wearing a black vampire cape. It felt strange to see her in it. She only has one cape and gets it out once a year for the vampire ball. I wish it was pink,' she said. 'Pink is such a cheerful colour!' 'But not as cheerful as black!' said Dad happily. He was in an extremely good mood. 'What are you going to wear,

Isadora?' asked Mum. 'Let's go and find you something smart. She led me back up to my bedroom and opened my wardrobe door. How about this?' she asked, taking out a long, velvet black dress with a white batwing collar. 'Maybe,' I said, staring at my tutu which twinkled all over with silver stars. I reached out my hand and stroked it. A cloud of fairy dust puffed up into the air. 'You could wear your tutu,' said Mum, 'if you like.' 'Really?' I said. 'I don't see why not,' said Mum. 'I

think the vampire ball could do with a bit of fairy glitter. She pulled it out and handed it to me.

'Are you sure you don't want to do your ballet show?' she asked. 'It's not too late!' 'I'm sure,' I said. 'OK then,' said Mum, walking back towards my door. 'Don't forget to put your vampire cape on! And don't forget Pink Rabbit's either!' By seven o'clock we were all ready and standing by the front door. We look marvellous!' said Dad. 'Very gothic!' He patted his cape pocket. 'I've got the comb in here, Isadora,' he said. 'For when you need it!' 'Thanks, Dad,' I said quickly.