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 smile

wouldn’t

making some money. What was the big

knack for earning, who would even bother with her? Did

“They say close neighbors are better than distant relatives. We’ve been living side by side for years. Surely

it weren’t for Anthea’s talents, she wouldn’t even give the time

about whether I want to teach or not.

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

knows the score

11:20

Chapter 43

help

two lifetimes, she had never met

was never one to take things

eyebrow, she retorted with deliberate clarity, cutting Beulah

teach a stray cat or dog

reveled in the discomfort of those who envied her yet couldn’t touch her.

her face, speechless