Chapter 41

Just before Brenda could reach Marcella, a sudden, stinging slap struck her face. Her left cheek immediately began to swell. She hadn't expected Marcella to resort to violence.

Dazed by the unexpected blow, Brenda stood frozen, her hand pressed against her face. After a moment, she turned to Oscar with a look of hurt. "Mr. Trent! She just hit me!"

Equally taken aback by Marcella's violent outbur