From Sneers to Cheers: Anthea’s Ascent

Chapter 127

“Holy smokes! Ann, you’re the coolest!” Lizzie gazed at Anthea, her eyes practically sparkling with admiration.

Sitting next to Anthea for so long, it was the first time Lizzie realized just how awesome she was!

Anthea responded with a modest smile, “Not a big deal.”

As she finished her sentence, Anthea turned to Tanya, “Hey, if anyone ever gives you trouble again, just tell me. I’ll take care of them for you!”

Tanya nodded.

Anthea slung an arm around Tanya’s shoulders, speaking earnestly, “But you gotta learn to stand your ground, ya know? Being nice is cool and all, but if they step on your toes, you gotta be ready to smack back!”

Tanya just stared at Anthea, slightly dazed.

Even years later, she would remember this moment vividly.

Anthea had shown her a light in life, a spark of hope that filled her days with possibility.

In Capital City.

It was Gerard’s birthday.

a special trip to the Lindsay family to celebrate Gerard’s

had grown into his features, handsome and distinguished, strikingly reminiscent of a young

Birthday, Gerry,” Darleen said, handing him a beautifully wrapped gift

cool indifference, “Thanks, but I don’t

The type who could hold his peace like

having grown up together,

quite warm up to Darleen, who had a penchant for tears since his childhood, an unfortunate trigger for Gerard’s severe neat–freak tendencies.

her,

a

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with a glance, “Gerry, how can you be so rude? That’s a gift from your sister! Apologize to her this

Gerard pressed his lips together, saying nothing.

to smooth things over, “It’s fine, Janet. They’re just kids. Don’t sweat it.” Darleen with Edna’s cunning, clung to Janet’s arm and cooed, “Grandma, it’s

As she had raised Gerard

words struck a chord.

that

and lit them, “Come on, Gerry, make a wish.”

lights dimmed,

birthday song together, creating

out the candles. He then cut a piece of cake for Janet, “Grandma, I’ve got plans with my friends. It’s time to