Stage Fright (6 page)

“Of course, precious,” said her mom meekly. “Anything you say.”

“Good gracious, it's not just her hair that's spoiled!” said Mrs. Pratt as Lucy marched her mother out of the hall. They all laughed, though they had to agree that Lucy had actually been really good as the Wicked Queen.

But the best praise of all was for Bella. As soon as they saw her, Lee and the others gave her a great cheer.

“Darling, that was amazing,” gushed Bella's mom, giving her a hug. “Especially since you weren't feeling too well this morning.”

“Yes,” said her dad. “Your singing was fabulous.”

“Er, well—” croaked Bella, but just then, Miss Gargoyle came over with a very tall vampire wearing a smart suit and an elegant velvet cape.

“This is our special mystery guest,” said Miss Gargoyle. “Mr. Harker Winegum, the owner of the Horrordrome.”

“What?” blurted out Lee. “The big vampire theater in town?”

“The very same,” smiled Mr. Winegum. “Now, where is Bella Williams?”

“Here,” said Bella huskily.

“Delighted to meet you, Bella,” said Mr. Winegum with a gracious bow. “This summer, I am putting on
The Sound of Screaming
. There are seven vampire children in it. After hearing you tonight, I would like to offer you a part in the show—if your parents agree.”

“Oh Bella!” squealed her mom in delight.

“Fangtastic!” said her dad.

But Bella wasn't smiling.

“That's really nice, Mr. Winegum,” she croaked. “But—but it wasn't me singing tonight.”

“Don't be silly, Bella,” said Mrs. Price. “We all heard you. You were wonderful.”

Bella shook her head glumly.

“No. It wasn't me. I lost my voice in the rehearsal. I could just about manage to speak, but I couldn't sing a note. My songs were sung by—Lee!”

All eyes turned to Lee. There were gasps of astonishment.

“It's true,” admitted Miss Gargoyle. “Every time Snow Fright had to sing a song, Lee hid out of sight and sang it for her.”

“So that's why Gnashful kept disappearing!” said Ollie.

“Yes,” said Lee. “I had the words on a piece of paper. We just had to make sure Bella was always in front of a tree or a door or something else for me to hide behind.”

“All I did was mouth the words,” said Bella.

“It was Lee's idea,” said Miss Gargoyle. “When Bella lost her voice, it was the only way the show could go on!”

Mr. Winegum stood quietly for a moment.

“Of course this means I shall have to change my offer,” he said.

Bella nodded sadly. “Lee deserves it, not me,” she said.

“Never mind, darling,” her mother comforted her.

Mr. Winegum laughed kindly.

“No, no! You misunderstand me,” he said. “I would like to offer a part in
The Sound of Screaming
to Lee
and
Bella.”

“What?” cried Bella. “Really?”

“The boys and girls in the show have to act as well as sing,” said Mr. Winegum. “I haven't heard you sing yet, Bella, but I do know you can act. What do you say?”

“Yippee!” cried Bella.