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.”

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

wasn’t long before Susan’s

none. One moment she was complimenting Elaine on her youthful looks, the next on how well–maintained

sweet talk made Anthea’s silence more noticeable. Sitting motionless on the couch. she

with a hint of distaste

did Carole educate Anthea?

it around Phoebe’s wrist. “Phoebe, this bracelet is for

taken aback. “Auntie, I

room. “You’re my niece. Besides, with how sweet you are, you’re my favorite. This is the latest style. It’ll look great on someone young like you. I’m too old for such things!”

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a pang of envy as she watched the bracelet change hands. She probably regretted not cozying up to

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

trample my pride just to win favor with Elaine. Am I

of the bracelet tempered

“You always know how

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

Rebecca’s deliberate promotion, Phoebe knew all too well

and not even favored. She must never

before.

wasn’t that expensive, just a bit