From Sneers to Cheers: Anthea’s Ascent

Chapter 239

Knowing how unpredictable his boss could be, the assistant always carried pen and paper. At a moment’s notice, she handed them to Alex.

Despite trembling hands, Alex plopped down on the floor and began to sketch.

In Capital City, Edna and her daughter Darleen had spent a night at a hotel.

Early the next morning, they brought a jar of wildflower honey–a gift from Jessica–to pay a Christmas‘ visit to the Lindsays and to greet Janet.

Seeing Edna and Darleen instantly made Janet forget any annoyance she might have felt.

Edna handed the honey to the housekeeper. “Janet, my mother sent this for you–wildflower honey, excellent for the health of the more… seasoned folks among us. Remember to stir a spoonful into your tea,” she said with a smile.

Janet chuckled warmly. “Your mom’s too kind. To think she’d part with such a treasure and bring it to me!”

Darleen chimed in, her laughter light and carefree. “Oh, Janet, you mustn’t feel like an outsider. Grandma always says, ‘We’re all family here. No need to split hairs over what’s yours or mine.”

That struck a chord with Janet. As far as she was concerned, Edna and Darleen were already part of the family.

Janet, beaming, took Darleen’s hand. “Exactly, Darleen, exactly! We are family, and family shouldn’t keep score. Since we’re family, you shouldn’t call me Janet anymore!”

“Oh? What should I call you then?”

always at the top of your

Darleen cooed

Janet pulled out a thick envelope. “Here’s a little gift for the

Darleen said, accepting it gracefully before adding with feigned concern, “But won’t Gerry be upset if I call you that? I feel like he

hardened as she remembered the previous night’s events. “He’d

just saying. Actually, Gerry’s really obedient. Mom always praises him and tells

was Darleen? Edna’s daughter, schooled in the art of winning favor and sowing discord

Gerard compared

know his own mother. What right did he have to

make sure Janet sent Gerard packing.

She would be the esteemed daughter–in–law of

Capital City could rival her then?

smug glint flashed in Darleen’s

soured. “If only Gerry had half

ssss

3 4 9 = 2 = 9 2

wouldn’t have refused to let Edna and Darleen come