Unmasking Mrs. Newton's Secret Identities novel Chapter 68

Anne retracted her gaze, not linking her family's troubles to Helen.

She set down her backpack and took her seat.

The first class was Encerian, and before it began, Sally announced the Encerian Week event.

"Our school's Encerian Week competition is now open for registration. I encourage everyone to participate, especially students like Anne and Helen, who have a solid foundation."

Anne took a deep breath. She smiled as she felt acknowledged.

Then she stood up. "Ms. Suares, I'll sign up and strive for the honor of our class."

Sally nodded in approval. "Excellent, Anne's enthusiasm is commendable, and a great example for everyone."

Then, Sally turned to Helen, who was looking down. "Helen, would you like to sign up?"

Helen slowly met Sally's gaze.

Initially, she was inclined to decline, but the sight of Anne's eagerness sparked a thought.

With life being rather dull right now, it could be interesting to stir something up.

"Sure, Ms. Suares. I'll sign up."

Sally couldn't hide her delight.

"Wonderful, I wish you great success in the Encerian Week competition. I have some Encerian listening materials at home; I'll bring them for you later. Prepare a speech draft for me to review."

Sally clearly showed a fondness for Helen. She was treating Helen almost like her own daughter.

Anne, who had been smiling, felt a pang of loss as she returned to her seat.

She vowed to herself as she clenched her fists tightly. "The Encerian Week championship will be mine. No one can take it from me."

After class, Anne's usual followers gathered around her.

"Anne, it's so amazing that you can participate in the Encerian Week competition. We're so envious."

"Exactly, Anne! Your Encerian is the best in our class. You're sure to shine this time and achieve a great ranking."

Anne basked in the compliments but maintained a modest front.

The others exchanged awkward glances as they remained silent.

Anne felt embarrassed. She explained, "Perhaps my dad forgot to transfer money to me. Just give me a moment."

With that, Anne headed towards the restroom and called her father, Danny.

The York family was in dire straits, with the company bankrupt and buried in debt. Danny was stressed out all night.

He only managed to clear the debts by mortgaging the family property.

With little money left, Danny answered Anne's call with a concerned face.

"Dad, my card's empty. Could you transfer some money to me?"

Danny frowned and questioned harshly, "Didn't I just transfer fifty thousand dollars to you last week? Have you spent it all already?"

Anne, feeling guilty, admitted, "I bought some cosmetics and bags. It's all gone. Please, Dad, I need more money. I can't even pay for my meal."

Danny sighed. "Didn't I tell you we're in a difficult spot now? I asked you to eat in the school cafeteria for a while. Have you forgotten about that?"