Donna had never seen such a bedroom. Gold and crimson damask covered a four-poster bed draped with a gauzy white net. Oriental rugs, woven with endless tiny flowers and arabesques, covered the white marble floor, and soft cushions were scattered everywhere. Alabaster bowls were full of peaches, plums, and persimmons; vases of tall, crimson roses stood on small tables inlaid with precious wood and mother of pearl. I wish I were in my little room at Aunt Yolanda’s new house, she thought sadly, overwhelmed by the cloying luxury of this palace. Depressed and exhausted, she kicked off her shoes, threw herself on the golden bed, and fell asleep.

After about an hour, she woke up feeling more cheerful. Surprisingly, she found a green embroidered robe, underwear, and lovely brown leather sandals arranged neatly...

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