From Sneers to Cheers: Anthea’s Ascent

Chapter 89

Hearing Sallie sigh with fatigue, Elaine was quick to respond, “Have a rest. I’ll give you a shout. when dinner’s ready.”

Sallie nodded in acknowledgment.

“Hold up a second, Sallie.” Gemma suddenly grasped Sallie’s hand.

Sallie betrayed a flicker of disgust as she caught sight of Gemma’s grubby fingers. Gemma’s long and unkempt nails were caked with grime.

Swallowing her revulsion, Sallie managed to ask, “What is it?”

Gemma continued with a hint of excitement, “I got a special treat for you! Felton, bring it over here, will you?”

Felton stepped forward with a bag in hand. “This is the pickle I made just for you.”

Gemma chimed in. “Remember how you loved it when you were a little girl? Only you and Stella get to enjoy my pickle. No one else gets this special treatment!”

Sallie and Stella were the shining stars. It was natural for Gemma to dote on them. After all when they married off, she expected them to remember herself with affection and generosity.

“Thanks, Granny,” Sallie said, taking the bag.

Gemma beamed. “No need for thanks, child. Go get some rest now.”

was out of sight, she tossed it straight into the trash. She couldn’t

before Susan’s daughter Phoebe arrived.

was complimenting Elaine on her youthful looks, the next on how well–maintained her skin was. Her words were as sweet

made Anthea’s silence more noticeable. Sitting motionless on the couch. she didn’t utter

with a hint of distaste flickering in her

earth did Carole

and fastened it around Phoebe’s wrist. “Phoebe, this bracelet

“Auntie, I couldn’t accept this!”

This is the

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watched the bracelet change hands. She

Elaine’s arm. “Auntie, you don’t look old at all! Standing next to my mom, who would guess you’re sisters? You look

glare, thinking, “That little brat! There was no need to trample

sight of the

Phoebe’s flattery. “You always know how

pricey. I think I’ve heard one of my friends mention this brand before.” Her eyes darted to Anthea, who seemed uninterested in

knew all too well about Anthea in the Morris family.

She must never have seen

before.

expensive, just a bit over two thousand dollars.”