Feeling as if a million daggers were piercing through her heart, Bella grabbed the sheets and coughed uncontrollably. Tears welled up in her eyes and she stared at the glowering Mr. Monroe. He had a fierce and austere expression on his face, while his girlfriend had a look of disdain and nonchalance. Pangs of panic engulfed Bella.
"No, it's not real, it's not real at all. Father, you must believe me!" Bella lost control of her emotions and let out a loud shriek. She then tore the magazine into shreds.
Mr. Monroe sneered in disdain. "Are you sure it isn't true? Your photo is all over the newspapers and magazines. Do you dare say that the girl in the photos is not you?"
Bella began coughing violently, unable to speak the words that she had in mind. It was as if she had consented to her father's words.
The more she panicked, the worse her cough got.
