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 way,

o was ond

brother, Nanson

Anthea referred to

as a delivery guy and didn’t smoke or drink,

the clock on the wall

then, footsteps sounded at the door. “Carole! Carole!

out as she

carried a roast chicken in

did you strike it rich?” Carole

century, meat was a luxury

client who runs a rotisserie! He said the delivery folks deserve a break for working so

Chapter 8

noticed Anthea emerging from the back and looked

her with a smile. “This is Anthea. Anthea, this is your

to meet you, Uncle Nanson,” Anthea said with

her as if he’d seen a ghost, “You,

had changed so much from

yeah, I am Anthea,” she said, enunciating each word.