CHAPTER FIFTEEN – SOLITARY CONFINEMENT

The silence that followed was deafening. Catherine's face went through a range of emotions - shock, disbelief, and finally, a cold anger that made Rebecca shiver. "The festival," Catherine repeated, her voice flat. "After everything we've taught you about the sinful nature of such worldly amusements, you chose to disobey us and attend that... that den of iniquity?" "It wasn't like that, Mother," Rebecca protested weakly. "It was beautiful and joyful. The people were kind and..." "Enough!" Catherine cut her off. "I don't want to hear another word. Go to your room this instant. Your father and I will decide on your punishment when he returns." "But Mother, please..." "Now, Rebecca!" With a heavy heart, Rebecca turned and climbed the stairs to her room. As she closed the door behind her, she heard her mother's muffled sobs from below. The sound made her heart ache, but she couldn't bring herself to regret the experiences of the day. The next morning, Rebecca's father delivered her