From Sneers to Cheers: Anthea’s Ascent (Anthea ) novel Chapter 439

Legs crossed elegantly.

Back straight as an arrow.

No matter the time or place, he always carried himself with discipline, standing tall like a pine tree, sitting firm like a bell.

Despite his professed Christian faith, evident from the red rosary he twirled in his fingers, his aura screamed of a sovereign, commanding respect from the highest echelons.

Anthea, blessed with sharp vision, could spot from afar that he was reading a paper filled with French articles.

It was The Guardian.

She found it amusing that a capitalist like him would fancy such a publication. Raising an eyebrow, she initiated a conversation, "Good morning."

"Morning," Sherman replied, looking up slightly. "You're up early, aren't you?"

"Just off for a run," Anthea tapped her headphones.

Sherman nodded, then added, "What would you like for breakfast?"

"You're cooking?" Anthea's eyebrow arched higher.

"There are sandwiches and milk in the fridge, just heat them up in the microwave. If you're not in the mood for sandwiches, I've also got English muffins and oatmeal."

Anthea pondered for a moment, "I'll go with the sandwich and milk."

"Alright then."

"I'll head out for my run now."

"Take care."

The air was crisp at six in the morning on the island, the gentle sea breeze mingled with the chirping of birds creating a serene atmosphere.

The island wasn't too large; a full lap took roughly an hour.

As Anthea jogged around, she marveled at the rich flora and fauna, spotting several wild rabbits and goats along the way.

Wild goats!

The thought of succulent goat meat was enticing; these animals, never having fed on anything but the lush vegetation of the island, would undoubtedly taste divine.

Images of roasted lamb chops, braised goat, spicy goat stew, and roasted goat legs waved at her from her imagination. The thought of biting into a crispy, golden lamb chop made her mouth water.

Following that with a sip of tangy goat meat soup would be perfection.

Swallowing hard, Anthea's pace slowed as she sneaked behind a tree, scheming on how to catch one of those plump goats.

Catching it alive was out of the question.

After some thought, she decided on a swift approach.

Finding a smooth stone, she took aim at a goat's head.

Whoosh!

Thud!

The stone hit its mark, and the goat collapsed, eyes closed, legs twitched, and it was gone.