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.

an afterthought, she added, “By

o was ond

youngest brother, Nanson

referred to

hadn’t had a steady job all these years due to his limited education. He worked as a delivery guy and didn’t smoke or drink, but his one

at the clock on the wall and

Carole! Come out and

called out as she moved toward

none other than Nanson. He carried a roast chicken in his left hand and a large

strike it rich?” Carole

it was the 21st century, meat was a luxury for

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

Chapter 8

noticed Anthea emerging from the back and looked puzzled,

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

you, Uncle Nanson,” Anthea said with a polite

as if he’d seen a ghost, “You, you! Are

much from just a few days

am Anthea,” she said, enunciating