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.

made a special trip to the Lindsay family to

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

him a beautifully wrapped gift

indifference, “Thanks, but I don’t need

The type who could hold his peace like it was a state

accounts, he and Darleen, having

who had a penchant for tears since his childhood, an unfortunate trigger

Knowing Janet favored her, she would often use it to

Darleen, Gerard harbored a general distaste for

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

his lips together, saying nothing.

laughed it off 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 okay. I know Gerry is all icy but warm–hearted on the inside. I’m not upset! Oh, make sure

youngest grandchild. As she had raised Gerard herself, she

struck

sense, unlike that brat!”

lit them, “Come on, Gerry, make

living room lights dimmed, the help standing

song together, creating a

then cut a piece of cake for Janet, “Grandma, I’ve got plans with