From Sneers to Cheers: Anthea’s Ascent (Anthea ) novel Chapter 234

Anthea sent back a cheerful "Merry Christmas!" and, getting into the festive spirit, shot over a virtual gift—a digital cash gift, tagged with the note: "A small Christmas gift."

Sherman stared at his phone, a little taken aback.

He'd grown quite a bit since the last time he’d received Christmas gifts from anyone other than his parents or relatives.

And speaking of which, he hadn't gotten any since he turned eighteen.

He tapped to accept the gift.

It wasn't a lot—just $20.

Sherman chuckled and sent a Christmas' gift in return, "As the saying goes, one good turn deserves another."

Anthea opened her gift to find $120—a hundred more than she’d sent.

A sly smile played on her lips. For all the talk of the stinginess of the wealthy, it seemed Sherman was an exception.

"Thanks, boss man ," she texted back.

"Don't mention it. What’s Ms. Yeager up to?" Sherman typed.

"Lighting fireworks ," replied Anthea, attaching a video she’d just taken.

Her surroundings were bursting with excitement.

Sherman glanced at his stark office desk and walked over to the window.

In Capital City, fireworks were banned.

Christmas Eve was unusually quiet here, hardly any different from any other night.

Sherman snapped a photo and sent it over.

"You in Capital City?"

"Yeah. Heading back day after tomorrow." As soon as Sherman hit send, he froze. Why was he reporting his travel plans to Anthea?

"Safe travels."

"Thanks."

After her firework display, Anthea went home and started her live stream.

No sooner had she begun than she received a challenge from LeisureHermit for a virtual duel.

She raised an eyebrow. LeisureHermit was persistent, challenging her time and again despite numerous losses.

Elsewhere, Gerard and his friends arrived at their chosen spot for setting off fireworks.