Ella, who was unaware of the severity of Ronald’s punishment for those who opposed her, felt a mixture of fear and gratitude. Summoning her courage, she faced the gathered crowd. Her heart was pounding, and her palms were sweaty. Ella's heart pounded, fear gripping her. "Can I really do this?" she wondered. "What if they see through me?" She forced a laugh, concealing her emotions.
“Well, if it wasn’t for that, would any of you have sold to me?” She looked around, hoping to see a hint of acceptance, but all she saw was hostility.
“I thought there might be a hint of acceptance, but I guess that’s never going to happen, huh? Well, enjoy then.” She tried to sound nonchalant, but her voice trembled.
Someone in the crowd, fueled by anger, stepped forward. “It’s your fault we’re in this mes
