Her First Ball by Katherine Mansfield

A young girl, Leila, attends her first grand ball and is swept up in its dazzling charm—the gowns, music, and dancing partners. Her excitement is momentarily shattered when she dances with an older man who cynically reminds her that beauty and youth are fleeting. Though momentarily discouraged, Leila’s joy soon returns. The plot is simple but emotionally rich, capturing a moment of transformation. Mansfield masterfully contrasts innocence with experience in a tender portrayal of growing up.