From Sneers to Cheers: Anthea’s Ascent

Chapter 43

Beulah, a fat woman, stepped out onto the porch, confusion knitting her brows. “Carole, did you guys hit it big or something? Why the sudden move?” she asked.

Carole was already notorious as the neighborhood gossip. Everyone pegged her as the

mistress.

Was Carole back to her old tricks? Where else would the money come from?

Beulah was racing her mind with possibilities.

Carole chuckled as she looked at Anthea. “It’s all thanks to Ann here. She got a real knack for the stock market and made a nice sum.

Beulah gleamed her eyes with envy. “Carole, you sure have raised a golden girl! If only my Molly had half her brains, we’d have moved out of this dump ages ago!”

Beulah turned to Anthea, continuing. “So Ann, how does this whole stock market work? Maybe you could give Molly a few tips? Help her make some money so we can get out of this hellhole sooner!”

The other neighbors quickly chimed in, “Yeah, teach our kids too!”

Anthea smiled slightly. “Trading stocks is a lot like gambling with win and lose. There are plenty who’ve lost everything. I can’t teach that, nor can I guarantee anyone will make money.”

her

wouldn’t even share a

money. What was the big deal?

for earning, who would even

“They say close neighbors are better than distant relatives. We’ve been living side by side for years. Surely you won’t refuse to help us out! Come on, Ann, let’s

she wouldn’t even give the time of

about whether I want to teach or not. I just can’t ensure that even if I taught Molly, she’d

money if you can? My girl is not an idiot!” Beulah was laced with sarcasm. “If you don’t want to teach, then just say it! No need for the song and dance – I can see right through it! And all that dough you’ve been flashing around?

the score with your mom…”

11:20

Chapter 43

couldn’t help but laugh.

lifetimes, she had never

was never one to take

with deliberate clarity, cutting Beulah off. “Beulah,

rather teach a stray cat or dog than waste

who envied her yet couldn’t touch her.

darkened her face, speechless with