From Sneers to Cheers: Anthea’s Ascent

Chapter 8

Anthea hadn’t eaten much all day, and by then, she was starving. But even as she wolfed down her meal, there was a grace to her that made it somehow pleasant to watch.

She polished off her spaghetti in no time.

“There’s more in the kitchen. I’ll get you another helping,” Carol offered.

Anthea gave a content smile. “No, Mom, I’m full. Thank you.”

“Well then, let me take you to your room so you can rest,” Carole suggested.

“Sure,” Anthea nodded in agreement.

The bedroom was a cramped space carved out of another room, with Carole living just next door. The furnishings were sparse, including a bed, a desk for writing, and a wardrobe for clothes. There were no unnecessary items.

It had been Rebecca’s room before. When Rebecca left, she took all her belongings with her. There wasn’t even a blanket on the bed at this time.

Carole mentioned, slightly embarrassed. “Let me go and grab a comforter to make the bed for you.”

“That’s fine, Mom,” Anthea said with a smile.

added, “By the

o was ond

brother, Nanson Yeager, lived with her.

“uncle” Anthea referred to was

limited education. He worked as a delivery guy and didn’t smoke or drink, but his one vice was the casino. Almost every paycheck he

clock on the wall and said, “He should be back soon.”

Carole! Come out and see what I’ve got you!”

Carole called out as she moved

carried a roast chicken in his left hand and a large watermelon in his right.

strike it rich?” Carole asked in surprise.

the 21st century, meat was a luxury

showed his pearly whites. “Got it from a client who runs a rotisserie! He said the delivery folks deserve a break for working so

Chapter 8

from

a smile. “This is Anthea. Anthea, this is

you, Uncle Nanson,” Anthea said

he’d seen

so much from just a

Anthea,” she said, enunciating