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.”

it straight into the trash. She couldn’t bear to hold onto such filth for a moment longer.

before Susan’s daughter

of Susan, with a talent for flattering that was second to none. One moment she was complimenting Elaine on her youthful looks, the next on how well–maintained her skin was.

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

with a hint of distaste

on earth did

fastened it around

aback. “Auntie, I couldn’t

sweet you are, you’re my favorite. This is the latest style. It’ll look great on someone

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undoubtedly felt a pang of envy as she watched the bracelet change hands. She

at all! Standing next to my mom, who would guess you’re sisters? You look more like mother and daughter! If anyone’s looking old, it’s my

There was no need to trample my pride just to win favor with Elaine. Am

the bracelet tempered Susan’s irritation.

swelled with Phoebe’s flattery. “You always know how

been so pricey. I think I’ve heard one of my friends mention this brand before.” Her eyes darted

to Rebecca’s deliberate promotion, Phoebe knew all too well about Anthea in the Morris

She

before.

“It wasn’t that expensive, just a bit over two thousand dollars.”