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

Sherman stood there, a slight frown creasing his brow.

He couldn't shake the feeling that Nanson didn't particularly like him.

Was it just his imagination?

Inside the house.All rights © NôvelDrama.Org.

"Uncle, what's up? You seemed in a hurry to pull me back here. Anything urgent?"

"No worries, just didn’t want you getting duped. Your mom, back in the day... never mind, better left unsaid! Just remember, some guys might look all shiny on the outside but are nothing but wolves in sheep's clothing, preying on naive girls like you."

Anthea chuckled, "A girl, yes, but naive? Hardly! Relax, Uncle. Sherman's not the type you're warning me about. Besides, we're just friends. I've got this under control."

Thinking about Anthea's savvy, Nanson breathed easier but still cautioned, "Just be careful, alright? Don't fall for those smooth talkers in fancy suits." Anthea nodded, "Got it.” Nanson continued, "I've got a meeting tomorrow to discuss a partnership, might be back late.”

"Okay."

The next day.

Nanson headed to the office first to clear some work before driving to the café where the meeting was scheduled

In a gesture of formality, he took the company's car, a sleek black Mercedes.

Soon, he arrived at the café, stepped out of the car, and walked in.

Wanting to show his punctuality and sincerity, Nanson arrived 30 minutes early. The person he was supposed to meet hadn't arrived yet. He ordered a coffee and enjoyed the view outside the window while waiting.

Unbeknownst to Nansen, not far from his table sat his ex-girlfriend and her current boyfriend, Lance. Although Nanson hadn't noticed them, Ileana spotted him right away.

"Why is he here?” lleana frowned in distaste.

It was clear to her that Nanson was there because of her.

Such lack of class. They had broken up ages ago, and yet, he seemed unable to let go.

How pathetic!

"Babe, who are you talking about?” Lance turned to look where Ileana was pointing.

Seeing Nanson, Lance's brows furrowed, "Why can't this loser just disappear? Doesn't he know you're with me now?" lleana pouted, "Lance, don't get mad! I'll go talk to him and set things straight.”

Lance looked visibly upset, "Fine, but this is really ruining the mood!"

lleana approached Nanson.

Hearing footsteps, Nansen thought his business contact had arrived but looked up to see a woman caked in makeup.

It took him a moment, but he recognized her as his ex, Ileana!

"What do you want?" Nanson asked

With a sneer, lleana said, "Stop pretending. Nanson. I know what you're up to. There's no chance between us! Can you please stop this pathetic act?”

Nanson's expression darkened, "You're mistaken.”

‘Mistaken?™leana scoffed. "Do you. think I' mbiind? Aman of your a stature, following me here? You” haveno dignity! No wonder you! re nathing but a loser!" Conterit belongs to ~~

Nanson, though angered, was in a café and wanted to maintain his dignity. refusing to stoop to arguing with a harpy. "Listen, Ileana! I'm not here for you! And you're hardly the goddess you think you are, worth my undying attention!"

"Psh!" lleana’s face twisted with disdain, "Who are you trying to fool? I know you're still hung up on me!"

Despite their past, Ileana felta =~ perverse-sense of superiority, This is my I last warning. Stop following me, or my boyfriend won't letyou off easy!" ..>

”

Just then, Nanson spotted the businesscontact he was waiting-for entering the café. He no longer. ~ cared:to engage with lleana and stood! up to greet the man, ‘Mr. Cash. " “