From Sneers to Cheers: Anthea’s Ascent

In Luna’s eyes, Rebecca was the epitome of omnipotence. Even the mysterious parasite Anos was courtesy of Rebecca’s clandestine resources.

Before Luna had crossed paths with Rebecca, Luna had been using a run–of–the–mill slow poison on Tammie, something far less sophisticated.

Poison was a dark business that couldn’t withstand the scrutiny of daylight or the probing of

tests.

It would be her undoing if her secret were brought to light!

But Anos was different. Anos was a parasite. And since Tammie had traveled abroad, it was unlikely anyone would suspect foul play in his illness.

Relief washed over Luna as she heard Rebecca dismiss the effectiveness of Anthea’s prescribed medications. “Rebecca, I can breathe easy with your assurance.”

Rebecca flashed a casual smile and raised her glass in a toast. “To enduring friendship.”

“To enduring friendship,” echoed Luna, clinking her glass against Rebecca’s. “But Rebecca, I’ve noticed Anthea has been acting differently. Maybe you should keep an eye on her?”

Rebecca’s lips curled up into a sly smirk. “She’s just a waste of space, doesn’t even register on my radar.”

Initially, Rebecca had reservations about Anthea, but at this time, she hardly gave Anthea a second thought.

She had been through a rebirth.

Armed with foreknowledge, a system at her golden fingers, and the prestige of her family’s wealth, what didn’t she have?

What did Anthea have?.

homewrecker.

nothing. On top of that, she was the despised offspring of a

Anthea had been way too busy lately.

She was juggling the renovations of her new diner, finalizing the OS System software, and sparing moments to coach Carole in the culinary arts.

The diner’s specialty would be the roasted rabbit, a dish that was as delicious as it was controversial, given the animal’s adorable reputation.

The secret to the roasted rabbit was all in the sauce, and under Anthea’s guidance, Carole was meticulously crafting it, following the recipe to the letter. Soon, the tantalizing aromas filled the kitchen.

Nanson, who had just returned from a delivery, was salivating at the smell. “Carole, what’s for dinner tonight?”

“We’re having roasted rabbit,” Carole called from the kitchen. “Go take a shower. Dinner will be ready once you finish bathing.”

“Great!”

By the time Nanson was freshened up, Carole had the rabbit roasted in the oven and made vegetable salad, soup, and sauce, a feast for the senses.

“Wow! It smells amazing! You’ve outdone yourself, Carole!” Nanson gave Carole a thumbs–up. “With your cooking skills, we will hit the jackpot on opening day!”

“Just hush and go get Ann for dinner, will you? I’ll whip up a sauce,” Carole laughed and replied. “Got it.” Nanson nodded and went to Anthea’s door, yelling, “Ann, I’m coming in!”

“Come in. It’s unlocked.”

As Nanson swung the door open, he found Anthea before her computer, her fingers dancing across the keyboard at lightning speed. Her other hand was on the mouse. And she was wedged between a phone conversation. “If there’s no silver, white will do. The brand doesn’t matter. Just make sure it’s eco–friendly! No high formaldehyde levels…”

The soft glow of the lamp highlighted her face, painting a picture of serene beauty that seemed to defy time.

Nanson was entranced. He had never known someone could multitask with such agility, typing while taking a call.

Was this the legendary art of multitasking?

Impressed, he thought it was nothing short of remarkable, just like his speed when he was gaming.

The computer screen was all incomprehensible symbols that shifted continuously, making Nanson’s head spin as if he were trying to decipher an alien script.