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?

at Karen, and their eyes locked,

subtly.

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

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 distractions tike

Karen were stunned at Rebecca’s declaration.

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

for some no–name

My daughter sometimes speaks out of turn. If she has offended

the right to choose!” Rebecca looked at Daly with

continued, “Rebecca’s my only girl, and I’ve probably spoiled her rotten. You see, even though I’m her father, I can’t make decisions for her! If

Chapter 18

old saying goes, you can’t make a silk purse out of

engagement.”

breaking an engagement is no small matter. Our families have been friends for years, and on his deathbed, Latham emphasized that we

a man of his word, as close as a brother to Daly.