From Sneers to Cheers: Anthea’s Ascent (Anthea )

"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.

Edna and his daughter Darleen made a special trip to the Lindsay family to celebrate Gerard's big day.

The eighteen-year-old boy had grown into his features, handsome and distinguished, strikingly reminiscent of a young Jonah.

"Happy Birthday, Gerry," Darleen said, handing him a beautifully wrapped gift box.

Gerard responded with a cool indifference, "Thanks, but I don't need it."

Gerard was mysterious, mature beyond his years and reserved. The type who could hold his peace like it was a state secret.

By all accounts, he and Darleen, having grown up together, should've been close.

But he could never quite warm up to Darleen, who had a penchant for tears since his childhood, an unfortunate trigger for Gerard's severe neat-freak tendencies.

Moreover, Darleen had a temper. Knowing Janet favored her, she would often use it to bully others.

Because of Darleen, Gerard harbored a general distaste for girls.

Janet chided Gerard with a glance, "Gerry, how can you be so rude? That's a gift from your sister! Apologize to her this instant!"

Silent, Gerard pressed his lips together, saying nothing.

Edna 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 you try the cake mom made, okay?"

Gerard was Janet's youngest grandchild. As she had raised Gerard herself, she doted on him immensely.

Darleen's words struck a chord.

"Darleen's got sense, unlike that brat!" Janet exclaimed.

Edna placed the candles carefully and lit them, "Come on, Gerry, make a wish."

The living room lights dimmed, the help standing by.

Edna and Darleen sang the birthday song together, creating a seemingly warm atmosphere.

Yet, Gerard remained expressionless, devoid of any smile as he blew out the candles. He then cut a piece of cake for Janet, "Grandma, I've got plans with my friends. It's time to head out."

This was precisely why Janet adored him so much.

Despite his somewhat stoic nature, he always remembered Janet.

Janet waved him off with a smile, "Go on, just call ahead so the driver can pick you up later."

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Edna gave Darleen a nudge.

Darleen stood up, "Can I come with you, Gerry?"

He glanced back at her, "Not this time."

Darleen instantly reddened her eyes, on the verge of tears.

Beautiful and usually the center of attention, she was coddled and chased after by everyone, except Gerard.

Edna patted Darleen's shoulder with a laugh, "Gerry's pals are all guys. Cut the drama, there's no need to play the victim here!"