Chapter 78

• I open my eyes wishing I didn't. The most terrible day of my life has arrived. My parents have not been able to get me out of town during these years. I have not known human contact other than the hugs of my parents before locking myself in the basement so I don't come out.
• The first thing I see is the chandelier hanging from the ceiling and how the diamond tears shine thanks to the light filtering through the small basement window. The same image every morning for eighteen years.
• Oh, sorry, today I turn nineteen. I am doomed. I sit on the bed feeling the soft silk of my pajamas against my pale skin. Then the door to my room opens and I see my mother's low"heeled shoes descending the stairs with great reluctance."