From Sneers to Cheers: Anthea’s Ascent

Chapter 26

Lauren was born in the 1960s and clung to old–fashioned ideas. She believed that as long as a girl was pretty, she was set for life.

After all, we live in an era where everything is judged by appearances.

“Lauren, do you think the rich are blind and stupid? These days, a wealthy guy wants a wife who’s not only a looker but also has a top–notch education!” Harriet glanced over at Anthea, then lowered her voice to a whisper, “And Anthea’s so gorgeous, I bet she’s had a string of boyfriends. Surely she’s not a virgin anymore. Why would a rich guy want damaged goods?”

Rich folks weren’t fools!

Forget about the rich. Even Harriet wouldn’t want her son bringing home a bride with no

smarts.

Lauren frowned. “You can’t just say things like that! Anthea doesn’t seem like that sort of

person.

What was the most important thing for a person? The reputation, of course!

story behind your back.” Harriet said, then quickly added, “I’m only saying

Harriet felt uneasy just looking at her, sensing she wasn’t the type to stay in line. And

blessed with such beauty while others

it turned into slander. A slander was often subconscious.

the universe was fair. It gave Anthea a stunning facade but not the smarts or

felt Harriet’s comments were out of line. “What if Anthea is still studying? Aren’t a lot of kids working summer jobs these

“Just look at her. She’s not the studious type. If she’s just filling in for Carole for a month, why work so hard? It’s clear she’s aiming to stick around.”

brown–nosing, hoping for a permanent

“I don’t think it’s

me, just wait and see what happens in a month.” Harriet was confident.

the fact that Harriet

12

Chapter 26

was a hard worker, barely taking a break all evening. Lauren handed her an ice–cold Coke, “Here, Anthea,

said, taking the cup with

warmed her eyes with approval at the

about a