From Sneers to Cheers: Anthea’s Ascent

The next morning, the new employees Sunny, Nana, and Agre showed up for their first day of work.

With three extra hands on deck and Anthea offering a higher wage than the competitors, they worked diligently, easing the load on Anthea and Carole significantly.

Thanks to some effective marketing, the business was booming, and soon the team was swamped with work. Anthea decided it was time to bring on two more people.

Days flew by, and before school was back in session, Carole wanted to take Anthea for a visit to Latonia’s place and share the news of their new venture.

Over the years, Latonia had been a rock for Carole, supporting her through thick and thin. Carole saw this visit as the perfect opportunity to express her heartfelt thanks.

Carole spilled her plan to Anthea, who was all for it, “Sarah’s off tomorrow, how about we swing by then?”

The following day, Carole and Anthea picked up an assortment of gifts and set off to

Latonia’s home.

Latonia lived in an aged neighborhood that lacked the luster of newer developments but was by no means subpar. It was a quintessentially middle–class area in Cloudcrest.

Latonia welcomed Carole and Anthea with open arms.

“Sarah! Look who’s here, Carole and Ann!” Latonia called out. “Come in and make yourselves at home!”

Latonia chided them upon seeing the bounty of gifts, “Carole, you should have just come to visit! Why all this fuss? Do you think money grows on trees? I’ve seen your struggles and I don’t want you wasting your hard–earned cash.”

Carole replied, “It didn’t cost much! Besides, haven’t you always been there for me,

Latonia?”

Latonia retorted with a smile, “We’re like sisters!”

Laughing, Carole said, “Exactly! So let me spoil you a little. If you don’t accept these gifts, you’re making me feel like an outsider.”

Latonia playfully smacked Carole’s arm, “Look at you, getting me all wrapped up in your words.*

Just then, Sarah burst out of her room, “Ann!”

“Sarah!” Anthea embraced her in a warm hug.

Latonia’s husband, Keeley Allen, emerged from the house.

05:31

This is Keeley, Carole Introduced him to Anthen.

Nice to meet you, Keeley.”

Keeley, a pleasantly plump and Jovial middle–aged man, responded with a grin, “You’re as lovely as her sister.”

As he spoke, he added, “Well, Latonia is hosting you ladies. I’ll go grab some groceries!”

“Off you go,” Latonia said, then turned to Keeley, “Make sure to pick up a nice and fatty fish for the catfish stew. Carole loves it.”

“Got it,” Keeley replied.

Carole, feeling a tad guilty, said, “Keeley, there’s no need for the fuss. We’re fine eating whatever is on hand.”

Latonia put an arm around Carole’s shoulder, “Oh, it’s no bother at all. We’ve gotta cat too. Let him go. Let’s head inside and chat.”

The Allen family’s living room was immaculate with sunlight pouring in through the windows.

Sarah scurried to serve them drinks while Latonia sliced up some fresh fruit.

Handing Anthea a glass of water, Sarah noticed her phone still on the table and said, “Hey Ann, do you play video games? We should totally team up and play!” She had been in the middle of a game when she heard Latonia announce Anthea’s arrival and had dashed out without even finishing.

“What game?” Anthea asked.

“League of Legends,” Sarah replied.

Anthea raised an eyebrow, “Is it really that fun?”

“It’s a blast!” Sarah said excitedly. “I’m an experienced player! You wanna try? I’ll carry you

to victory!”