설마 is used when you want to emphasize a negative presumption.
for example:
설마! = No way! I don't believe it!
설마 그럴 리가 없다. = That can't be right.
설마 네가 안오는 건 아니겠지. = Don't tell me you're not coming.
너 설마 진심은 아니겠지? = Don't tell me you're serious.
설마, 그 사람이 그랬을까? = Well do tell, did he do that?
hope it helps! if there's something you don't understand, feel free to ask ^^