"Arggggh!"
A raw, high scream tore from Mirabel's throat the moment she reached her room. She swept across the dressing table in a blind, violent motion, scattering lotions and makeup that had been arranged with care.
Her cheeks burned a deeper red than the rest of her skin. Breaths came sharp and fast. Both hands were clenched at her sides until her knuckles had turned white.
"I hate that bitch!" she yelled. "I want to kill her so badly...."
"Mirabel? What on earth is happening?" Mrs. Ashford's voice came from the doorway, laced with concern. She stepped inside and froze at the sight of her daughter poised to fling another vase to the floor. Mirabel's arm stilled.... the vase hovered for a heartbeat before she set it down with an effort that made her shoulders tremble.
