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

Griffin YC probably wouldn't dare show up at the party. With an ugly face and a reputation for cheating, she'd be the laughing stock of the evening.

The statement she released was likely just a smoke screen, a temporary fix to buy some time.

But whether she showed up or not was of no consequence to Daniel.

His ultimate goal was to show Sherman a side of Rebecca he'd never seen before.

To make Sherman realize that Rebecca was truly his perfect match!

Whether it was discussing the virtues of a plant-based diet or a strategic move in chess, Rebecca and Sherman had plenty in common.

In fact, on the chessboard, Sherman might not even hold a candle to Rebecca. After all, she was a grandmaster, a champion with national titles under her belt!

So, the real competition for Sherman wasn't that cheater Griffin, but Rebecca.

Imagining Sherman's upcoming reality check, a smug smile played on Daniel's lips. The moment of truth was going to be spectacular!

He could hardly wait to witness the scene.

"What's that smirk for?" Sherman turned his piercing gaze on Daniel, an air of authority in his eyes.

Daniel quickly wiped the grin off his face. "Sherman, you're about to meet Griffin. Isn't that a reason to be cheerful? And don't worry, everything's arranged in Capital City. We'll head over a day early, leave Wednesday morning."

Sherman nodded slightly and immediately dialed his secretary to rearrange his schedule.ConTEent bel0ngs to Nôv(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

Meanwhile, the countdown to the RealTimeFlow gala had Sarah buzzing with excitement. She'd spent the last few days selecting the perfect dress for the occasion.

After making her choice, Sarah went over to the Yeager estate to consult with Anthea.

"Ann, what do you think about these two dresses I've picked out?" she asked.

Anthea responded with a smile, "Sarah, I've already prepared your outfit for the gala. Here it is, try it on to see if it fits." With that, Anthea handed Sarah a champagne-colored dress.

Sarah took the dress, her surprise evident. "Ann, how did you know champagne is my favorite color?"

"Most of your clothes are champagne, so it was a safe bet you'd like it. Go on, try it."

"You're so thoughtful." Despite knowing Anthea for quite some time, Sarah had never figured out her favorite color.

In the restroom, Sarah examined the dress, noticing a large 'Y' embroidered on the tag – likely the designer's signature.

The light chiffon fabric was adorned with white pearls, airy and form-fitting, creating a flattering silhouette while inexplicably feeling as cozy as if surrounded by a bubble of warm air.

She pinched the fabric, expecting some high-tech feel, but it seemed like any other material.

Was it her imagination? She felt undeniably warm.

"Ann, what's this dress made of? It feels so warm!" Sarah emerged from the restroom, full of curiosity.

Anthea replied, "It has temperature-regulating properties."

"Holy cow! For real?" Sarah had never imagined owning such a dress

It was downright magical. She even thought she was dreaming.

Anthea nodded. "Don't believe me? Try opening the window and standing in the breeze."

Skeptical, Sarah opened the window to let the brisk air pour in.

But she didn't feel the slightest chill.

My goodness! The dress really did regulate temperature. This was too cool – literally.

"Ann, where did you get this dress?" Sarah was in awe.

Anthea smiled. "You might not believe it, but I invented it. No need to buy it."

Sarah laughed it off. "Ann, don’t mess with me!"

Despite Anthea's talents, she was only eighteen. How could she invent such a revolutionary piece of tech? She must be joking.

Anthea let it slide without further explanation.

"By the way, Ann, how much for the dress? I'll transfer the money to you."

"No need," Anthea's tone was gentle, "Sarah, I remember your birthday is coming up. Consider this dress my gift to you."