From Sneers to Cheers: Anthea’s Ascent ( Anthea )

The sound of applause thundered through the air, each clap echoing with a resonance that seemed to pierce the very soul.

The intensity of the clapping was directly proportional to the sourness spreading across Rebecca Morris's face. As the rightful heiress to the Morris family's vast estate, she found herself bested by an imposter, a counterfeit heiress who had not only usurped her place but was also known far and wide as a complete and utter failure.

How was she to hold her head high in Cloudcrest society after such a humiliating defeat?

Not far from the commotion, Sherman's gaze cut through the crowd, zeroing in on a phrase that seemed to sum up the evening's surprise, "Mastery lies in simplicity, and wisdom in humility."

The meaning was clear: it's better to appear underwhelming than to flaunt one's intellect; better to be modest than to radiate arrogance; better to seem approachable than aloof; better to retreat than to advance without caution.

Sherman couldn't help but chuckle softly to himself.

Those words...

Weren't they the perfect description of Anthea herself?

All these years, she had been hiding her brilliance behind a veil of ordinariness.

"Anthea, you're incredible!" Daniel approached her, admiration clear in his voice.

Anthea's response was light, "I haven't practiced my calligraphy in a long time. I'm a bit rusty."

This was no false modesty.

Back in her world, even the most revered figures in the calligraphy scene would have to tip their hats to her.

This was her first time picking up a pen since arriving here.

Daniel was stunned by her casual admission. If this was her being "rusty," what heights could she reach if she truly applied herself? Would the masters of the calligraphy world need to retire in her presence? "Anthea, you're too modest," Daniel continued, "By the way, did the dessert made by the Michelin-star chef tonight meet your expectations?"

Anthea nodded, "It was quite delightful."

At this, Rebecca's expression darkened further.

What had Daniel just called Anthea?

A prodigy?

How could Anthea possibly deserve such a title?

Daniel was supposed to see her, Rebecca, as his confidante. How could he lavish such attention on Anthea instead?

Shameless!

Anthea was utterly shameless.

Memories of last year's RealTime Flow gala flashed through Rebecca's mind. Back then, just like tonight, Anthea had stolen the spotlight that rightfully belonged to her.

A nameless fear began to spread through Rebecca's body, just as a sharply dressed gentleman approached, "My father is a great admirer of calligraphy. I would love to purchase these pieces for him to study. Would you consider selling them, Ms. Yeager?"

The room went silent at his words.

The man was not just any affluent guest.

He was Jasper White, the eldest son of the prestigious White family, known for their deep roots in Cloudcrest's history. Despite his youth, Jasper had made significant strides in both business and politics, elevating the White family's status to the pinnacle of Cloudcrest society.

Nobody had anticipated that Anthea's calligraphy would catch the eye of someone like Jasper!

As the saying goes, having connections makes everything easier.

Many had hoped to forge a connection with Jasper during the evening, but none had found the opportunity. And yet, here was Anthea, unexpectedly winning his favor.

Anthea smiled gently, "A gentleman helps others achieve their beauty. If you like them, you can have them."

"Thank you for your generosity, Ms. Yeager. I'm Jasper White. Here's my card. Should you ever need any assistance, please don't hesitate to contact me," Jasper offered, extending his card with both hands.

"I'll take you up on that offer without being too modest, Mr. White." Anthea accepted the card, a smile playing on her lips.

Witnessing this exchange, Rebecca felt a surge of bitterness. She watched as Anthea effortlessly charmed Jasper, her gaze filled with venom.

Her fists clenched so tightly that her nails bit into her palms, yet she felt nothing.

If not for Anthea, she could have been the one in that spotlight.

She could have been the one receiving praise!

It was Anthea who had taken everything from her.

No, she couldn't let Anthea trample over her!

She was meant to be the phoenix rising from the ashes, not Anthea.

Anthea was nothing but a stepping stone for her.

Noticing Rebecca's discomfort, Daniel asked with concern, "Rebecca, are you alright?"

"I'm fine." Rebecca managed a strained smile, pretending as if nothing was amiss.