Excerpt: Ainsly In Wonderland (Working Title)

I stood for a moment in the garden feeling a little stunned, trying to grasp the reality that I really was in Wonderland. There was always the possibility that I was still lying in the dingy sewer still having a fantastical dream, but I pushed those "rational" thoughts away for the moment. If this was all just a dream, then it was a good one and I was determined to enjoy it. I started down the pebbled path in front of me, wondering where I might be headed. Of course I was somewhat familiar with Wonderland from reading the book, but I had a feeling that even if I had a map of all the land it still wouldn't do me any good. Wonderland is a strange place where nothing can be taken for granted. As I was strolling down the path, I saw several animals all going about their business, but I felt wary to approach them. They all seemed harmless enough, but suddenly I felt shy. I've never been very good at making friends with people I do not know, but even the change from people to animals did not ease my shyness. It was as I walked the path and considered the differences of people as people, and animals as people, I suddenly ran into something round and fluffy and was nearly knocked sideways into a hedgerow. I looked down and saw none other than the White Rabbit, sitting in the dust, and looking very put out.
"Oh good sir, I am so very sorry! Here, let me help you up!" I cried in alarm. This was no good, my first day here and I was already upsetting people.
"Whiskers and widershins!" he cursed. "Do watch where you're going! Now I'm AM going to be late."
I pulled him to his feet, it was not hard as he only stood as high as my shoulder, and setting to dusting off his coat.
"I truly am sorry sir! I had my head in the clouds yet again and wasn't watching where I was going!"
He looked up at me with a queer glance and scolded, "Head in the clouds is it, then you've not got your neck fastened properly today. What's your name silly child?"