The second the clock turns 12:00, your clothing turns back into rags, your carriage goes back into being a pumpkin. That was what the fairy godmother told you, which is why you run out of the ball every 12:00.

Gepard is clueless.

He dances with you, then the next second the clock chimes close to 12, you're profusely apologizing, exclaiming you have to go home.

The second day into the ball,

Gepard leads you up to the royal garden. "Don't leave." He murmurs, his nose onto your hair.