From Sneers to Cheers: Anthea’s Ascent (Anthea ) novel Chapter 27

Anthea jogged over, her sneakers thumping softly on the pavement. "Uncle Nanson, what are you doing here?"

"Your mom's worried about you walking home alone at night," Nanson said with a protective glint in his eye. "She sent me to make sure you get back safe."

Anthea nodded, an unfamiliar feeling bubbling up inside her. She was used to being the protector, not the protected. This was a new sensation, odd but not unwelcome.

"So are we still hitting up the spot tonight?" Nanson asked, his voice tinged with excitement.

Anthea knew exactly what 'the spot' referred to. "Absolutely!" she replied.

Money was tight and her wishlist was long, including a new smartphone, laptop, gaming gear... She was desperate to move out of her dingy basement apartment. Those gadgets weren't just luxuries but her ticket to greater success.

And right now, the quickest way to cash was the casino.

"Let's roll!" Nanson said with a grin. "Tonight we'll give them a lesson!"

They strutted toward the casino, a fortress of sin and chance.

Inside, the place was buzzing, a hive of hopeful souls.

But luck wasn't on Anthea's side tonight. There were six losses in a row before a single win.

Nanson looked Anthea over with concern. "What's going on with you tonight? You're off your game."

Anthea shrugged it off. "Whoever wins all the time is a legend. I'm just human."

Human or not, her winning streak the previous night had been nothing short of miraculous. Nanson scratched his head, not quite buying it.

"Rough night, huh? I thought she had the magic touch," Daniel remarked from across the room, his gaze lingering on Anthea with a mix of curiosity and distaste.

Ever since the debacle in the Morris family, he'd seen her here two nights in a row. Coincidence? He doubted it.