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.

and his daughter Darleen made a special trip to the Lindsay family to celebrate Gerard’s

features, handsome and distinguished, strikingly reminiscent

said, handing him a

responded with a cool indifference, “Thanks, but I don’t

The type who could hold his peace like it

Darleen, having grown up together, should’ve

Darleen, who had a penchant for

Janet favored her, she

Darleen, Gerard harbored a

1/2

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

Gerard pressed his lips

to Janet’s arm and cooed, “Grandma, it’s okay.

youngest grandchild. As she had raised Gerard herself,

words struck a

got sense, unlike that

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

living room lights dimmed, the

sang the birthday song together, creating a seemingly warm

candles. He then cut a piece