From Sneers to Cheers: Anthea’s Ascent

Chapter 18

Eight years passed, and the Morris family had a little princess.

Latham made the long journey from Capital City to attend the baby’s christening party, where he and the family exchanged keepsakes, forging a bond between the two families.

Amid the celebration, Rebecca interrupted with a smile, “Mrs. Christensen, I just turned eighteen, and I’m not ready to settle down yet. Besides, the Christensen family is royal and prestigious, and I’m just plain Jane. How could I ever match up to Mr. Christensen?”

Not reading too much into it, Karen beamed at Rebecca. “Nonsense, my dear! You’re as lovely as a summer’s day. Of course, you’re a match for us. Don’t worry. Now that the engagement is set, we’ll keep our word. Sherman will be over the moon to have you.”

Rebecca’s expression soured at Karen’s obliviousness.

Couldn’t the old bat see she was being sarcastic? It was evident that the fifth Christensen wasn’t worthy of her!

But Karen made it sound like Rebecca was reaching for the stars.

Bah! That was disgusting!

Daly and Sandra also looked uneasy. What was Karen implying? Didn’t she have any

self–awareness?

the tension, Adah glanced at Karen, and their eyes locked, both

subtly.

gracious smile. “Daly, Sandra, listen. Karen means we’ve come this long way to settle the youngsters‘ future. They’re grown, and an

is about my future, and my parents can’t decide it for me.” Rebecca interjected firmly. “Please don’t put them in an awkward position. Since you’re here, let’s be clear. I want to focus on my studies and careers, not on

stunned at

continued, “I’m sure Mr. Christensen will find someone who

prize for some no–name to aspire

speaks out of turn. If she has offended you, please don’t take

the right to choose!”

and I’ve probably spoiled her rotten. You see, even though I’m her father, I can’t make decisions for her! If she doesn’t want to, we can’t force

Chapter 18

saying goes, you can’t make a silk purse

engagement.”

a polite smile. “Daly, breaking an engagement is no small matter. Our families have been friends for

his word, as close as a brother to