In the days following the picnic, Lady Tremaine feels hopeful about their encounter with Prince Simeon. Then, one day, Otto returns with their broken carriage, now mended. He also presents them with a painting of apples as a gift from the prince. After Otto leaves, Lady Tremaine and her daughters decide to sell the canvas and frame to recover Lady Tremaine’s necklace from the local pawn shop for the ball.

Lady Tremaine and her daughters prepare for the ball that evening. While readying herself, Lady Tremaine studies her body in the mirror and muses on her life, circumstances, and age. That afternoon, she goes into town and trades the apple picture for her cameo. Back at home, she delights in her daughters’ lavish appearances. However, she forbids Elin from attending when she sees her unfinished, tattered, and mis-sewn gown. She knows this may be cruel but is desperate to maintain the family’s reputation. The Enrights arrive, and Lady Tremaine and her daughters join their carriage to the castle.

At the ball, Lady Tremaine studies the lavish ballroom and all the well-dressed guests. She greets Queen Sigrid, remembering Agatha’s teachings. Later, she is delighted when the prince recognizes the girls and invites Rosamund to dance.