From Sneers to Cheers: Anthea’s Ascent

"Yes," Sherman nodded slightly.

Even Karen was taken aback by this.

Sherman had been smoking for about ten years.

And now he just decided to quit?

"Why did you quit smoking?" Adah asked.

"Because it's bad for my health," Sherman replied.

Adah and Karen exchanged glances.

They both saw the confusion in each other's eyes.

The harmful effects of smoking were something they had told Sherman countless times before.

But Sherman had never taken it seriously, indulging in the habit for a decade.

Why the sudden change now?

Something unusual was definitely afoot!

There had to be some underlying reason!

"Sherman, why did you suddenly decide to quit smoking? Did something happen?" Adah inquired.

"Nothing happened," Sherman said as he made his way upstairs.

turned to Karen, "Mom, don't

nodded, "Adah, do you think it might be because Ann doesn't like smoking,

doubt it. Sherman doesn't even realize he's taken a liking to Annie yet. He barely

acknowledged his feelings, so why would he heed

of man who wouldn't change for a young girl's opinions.

influence. Ann is so remarkable, after all. If that stubborn boy doesn't make some effort to please her, what if Ann decides he's

an optimist; she always preferred to see the positive side

replied, "I hope

possibility

also possible Sherman just

own

Sto

for him."

Nanson Yeager had been pondering for a while and finally decided to confess his feelings to Violet

the girl he

declare his feelings to Violet over dinner

evening, Nanson arrived at the restaurant 20 minutes early

o'clock, Violet arrived as

Violet ordered just a salad,

at Violet, "Violet, there's something I want

said, gracefully dabbing her

Nanson gathered his courage,

what I'm about

a bit sudden,

I mean