From Sneers to Cheers: Anthea’s Ascent

Chapter 488

Even though Alex didn't shed a single tear from beginning to end, there was an unmistakable air of melancholy about him.

This sorrow seemed to emanate from his very bones.

There was no hiding it.

Wiping the rain from his face, Alex said, "Thank you."

"You're welcome," Anthea replied, glancing at the sky. "This rain doesn't seem like it's going to stop anytime soon. Why don't we head back?"

"Alright," Alex nodded, taking the umbrella from Anthea's hand. "Let me hold it."

At nearly six foot two, Alex towered over Anthea, who barely reached five foot three. Holding the umbrella for him was quite a task, so she didn't object.

Together, they descended the cemetery steps.

If anyone else had been there, they would have noticed that Alex held the umbrella almost entirely over Anthea, his shoulder already soaked through.

They walked in silence.

The cemetery was eerie on its own, and the rain only added to the oppressive atmosphere. Under the weight of thick clouds, the whole place felt like a cage, suffocating in its gloom.

Alex's hand, tucked into his pants pocket, trembled slightly.

In a daze, he was transported back to that helpless night. His foot slipped, his body lurching forward as he nearly tumbled down the steps, but a pale hand caught him just in time. "Be careful," a voice said.

The words were like a ray of sunshine in the dead of winter, dispelling the shadows from his heart. Alex steadied himself, "I'm okay."

at him, "Are

he shook his head

Anthea matched his stride.

parked just outside the

the assistant quickly opened

into the back

drop Ms. Yeager off

your place first;

"I'm fine."

eye in the rearview mirror, curiosity

ad

woman, get this close. Yet Ms. Yeager managed not only to get close

the driver noted a

that the cunning

so careful

hadn't seen it himself, he wouldn't have believed

the car arrived at the Yeager

in the rain.

some ginger tea when you get home to ward off a

do," Alex nodded

left, Alex instructed the driver,

was momentarily taken aback, surprised that Alex had

on the way back, he kept the speed steady between

car

adorned with mourning banners from the recent