From Sneers to Cheers: Anthea’s Ascent ( Anthea ) novel Chapter 30

Chapter 30 

“I don’t have a cellphone,” Anthea admitted with unaffected honesty. 

A flicker of embarrassment crossed Weston, “Oh, sorry about that.” 

“It’s no big deal.” 

Harriet had noticed the uptick in customers over the past few days too. Their little rotisserie had always done alright, but this was the first time they’d seen a line out the door. 

Could Anthea be the reason? Ever since she started here, the number of diners had surged day by day. 

So, beauty wasn’t entirely useless after all. 

With this thought, Harriet softened her gaze as she looked at Anthea, “Hey, if you’re feeling wiped, take a break, no sweat. I’m not one of those slave–driver bosses.” 

“Thanks,” Anthea replied, her relief evident. 

“Don’t mention it,” Harriet said, giving Anthea’s hand an encouraging pat. 

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Just then, a young woman dressed to the nines in designer strolled by and caught sight of Anthea clearing a nearby table. She nudged her pixie–cut companion with an elbow, a puzzled look on her face, “Hey, Mae, who is that?” 

Mae slapped a hand over her mouth, shocked. “Holy cow! Is that Anthea?” 

“Let’s go check it out.” 

Both women could hardly believe the transformation in Anthea. It had only been a few weeks, but the change was dramatic. 

“Anthea?” 

Anthea looked up, her long lashes fluttering like butterfly wings, leaving the two women dumbfounded. Was this Anthea? 

Flashes of information about the two women surfaced in Anthea’s mind. 

They were Mae and Alicia. 

The original host had been known for her heavy makeup and revealing outfits, a style largely influenced by her so–called friends. 

Mae and Alicia were from decently wealthy families in Cloudcrest, but they couldn’t hold a candle to the Morris family. They’d always been green with envy over previous Anthea’s good looks and privileged background. They’d cozied up to her, using her status to boost their own and taking advantage while they could. 

The original Anthea had been an easy mark, swayed by just a few flattering words. 

11:46 P 

Chapter 30 

They said heavy makeup suited her, so she caked it on. They told her she looked good in skimpy outfits, and she’d bare more skin. 

“Is there anything I can help you with?” Anthea asked with indifference. 

“Oh, nothing, just wanted to chat for a second,” Mae forced a smile, “Ann, we’ve missed you since you left! What’s with the makeover? Ditching the glam, huh? You’ve gone too plain!”