She screened, and before she could reach me, Maria intervened, holding her off as she stretched her hands in an attempt to connect with me.

I immediately stood up and took a step back from her in horror, as she glared at me, filled with rage over what had transformed her into this furious and enraged person, to the point where even her dress appeared so battered and worn. She glared at me with an intensity of hate and anger that was palpable.

"What is the meaning of this, Susan?" Maria yelled ...