From Sneers to Cheers: Anthea’s Ascent

Chapter 9

Anthea’s eyebrows arched slightly at the mention of Rebecca’s name.

It was clear from Nanson’s tone that he had a bone to pick with Rebecca. Anthea mused there must be a story there.

Carole Interjected, “Whatever you say about her, I guarantee Ann’s not that kind of girl. Hey, you might be hungry after delivering all day. There’s some spaghetti in the kitchen. Help yourself. I’m going to make Ann’s bed.”

“I’ll come with you, Mom,” Anthea said.

“Okay.”

Anthea and Carole headed to the guest room, pulling out a comforter and making the bed. Normally, a thin cotton sheet would suffice for summer, but the basement was a different story – it was chilly all year round.

Carole was still getting to know this daughter of hers, and that made her a bit reserved. The air was tinged with awkwardness as they spread the bedding, neither sure of what to say.

Anthea sensed Carole’s cautiousness and, with a smile, struck up a casual conversation to break the ice. She was determined not to let Carole down. Having been an orphan in her previous life, this time around, she was resolved to cherish the maternal love that she had so fortuitously found.

After making the bed, Carole fetched a plate of freshly sliced watermelon for Anthea.

his face. “Carole, the girl’s used to living in the lap of luxury, washing her

Evian incident. Had it not been for Carole’s intervention,

her mistake. Why bother

her?”

daughter turned out ungrateful. And she, she was raised by someone else! I’m just looking out

his sister, Carole. He dreaded seeing her get hurt again.

worry,” Carole said with unwavering faith, “I can see in her eyes that she has truly turned a

to Carole, muttering under

Chapter 9

watermelon to Anthea’s foom, reminding Nanson on her way out, “Finish

in agreement.

Anthea’s room with the watermelon. “Ann,

“Thanks, Mom.”

of the juicy fruit with a fork, tasting its sweetness. It was from

too,” she offered Carole

of