From Sneers to Cheers: Anthea’s Ascent

Chapter 42

“Ann, what are you up to?” Carole called out as she rapped on the door and peeked inside with a mix of curiosity and concern. “What in the world is this?”

Anthea replied without looking up from the disassembled pieces that surrounded her. “Just got a new computer, but it seems to be on the fritz. I’m checking it out.”

“Do you think you can put it back together?” Carole widened her eyes in disbelief.

Wiping the sweat from her brow, Anthea confidently assured her. “Of course, Mom.”

As they chatted, Anthea casually dropped the news, “Oh, by the way, we’re moving tomorrow.”

“Moving?” Carole was taken aback.

Living in a basement flat was no good for their health, but the rent in Cloudcrest wasn’t pocket–friendly. How could they afford to move?

With a reassuring smile, Anthea said, “Don’t worry about the money. I made a decent sum from some stocks and mutual funds I dabbled in. After paying back what I owed to a friend, we’ve got enough left over to cover rent for a year.”

Η

Truth be told, the cash was all from a lucky streak at the casino.

Anthea wasn’t yet familiar with the rules of this world to risk the stock market. She stuck to what she knew best.

were enough to secure

her first mission,

all, an ultra–rare mission promised a hefty

Carole said, getting to her

old junk. The new place is fully furnished. Just pack some

with their belongings. “Well, maybe I can sell some stuff to the flea

Anthea nodded

the tech forums at that

swooped in and nabbed that insanely hard, rare mission that’s been up for grabs for

What a boss! Take me under your wing

that Phoenix–YC is a total newbie?”

Chapter 42

A fresh account!”

freaking out,

been waiting for days. Why couldn’t a real pro take this mission?”

pull this off, I’ll follow

“Agreed!”

“Screenshot taken!”

Phoenix YC could complete this mission. Before long, everyone’s attention had

was thrilled. “I’ll bring over the company truck tomorrow to haul all our stuff