From Sneers to Cheers: Anthea’s Ascent (Anthea ) novel Chapter 128

Janet couldn't stand to see Darleen get the short end of the stick. She took Darleen's hand firmly and said, "Don't you worry, Darleen. When Gerry gets back, I'll give him a piece of my mind."

Gerry was indeed a bit thoughtless, Janet thought.

His words were too harsh, but thank goodness Edna was kind-hearted enough not to hold it against the kid.

Then there was Jonah who couldn't even come back for Gerry’s birthday.

Who knew what he was so busy with?

Edna chuckled and said, "Janet, you shouldn't spoil Darleen so much. You're going to ruin her!"

Janet held onto Darleen's hand tighter. "Girls need a bit of spoiling. Gerry is becoming more and more of a recluse..." Janet's voice trailed off, her face clouded with worry.

Edna reassured her, "Janet, I think Gerry's a sensible boy. A quiet nature in a boy isn't a bad thing. Don't fret over it."

"You're the only one who lets it slide."

Outside the estate, Gerard made his way to the roadside and spotted his classmate, Healy, waiting for him.

"Gerard, over here!" Healy called out, waving his hand.

Gerard jogged over. "Have you been waiting long?"

Healy shook his head. "Just got here a bit ago."

After a brief pause, Healy continued, "So, your sister didn't come with you today?"

It was common knowledge that Gerard always had a little shadow following him around.

Gerard replied coolly, "She's not my sister. Why should she follow me?"