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 the way, where’s my

o was ond

youngest brother, Nanson Yeager, lived with

Anthea referred to was indeed

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

wall and said, “He should be back

“Carole! Carole! Come out

out as she

chicken in his left hand and a large watermelon

you strike it rich?”

was a luxury for

ear to ear, Nanson showed his pearly whites. “Got it from a client who runs a rotisserie! He said the delivery

Chapter 8

he noticed Anthea emerging from the back and looked

“This is Anthea.

to meet you, Uncle Nanson,” Anthea said

if he’d seen a ghost, “You,

had changed so much from

I am Anthea,” she said, enunciating