Not A Small-Town Girl

Chapter 8-1

Audrey’s stomach churned at Danielle’s cold response, taking it as pure arrogance. She couldn’t help but study her rival’s face-Danielle was stunning, no doubt about it.

But those distant eyes were like ice, almost unnervingly clear, like nothing in this world could ever faze her.

This is that backwater girl?’ she wondered, recalling the lack of useful information in Danielle’s background check.

"Audrey, Danielle just needs time to warm up. You’ll be close soon enough," Vivian soothed.

Audrey’s face softened into a practiced look of pure, lovely, and pitiful innocence. "Of course," she replied obediently, "I’ll be a perfect sister."

"Enough talk-you must be hungry, let’s eat!" Vivian guided Danielle to the table laden with both their girls’ favorites.

of the

you home for

my dear sister," he replied simply, his gaze

perfectly manicured nails dug into her palms, but her smile never wavered. "How wonderful that you made time for Danielle. Isn’t it lovely?" Each

made Audrey burn with both embarrassment and rage. With their parents

their parents and Joseph showered Danielle with choice morsels. Each gesture twisted

darling. You’re too thin." Vivian

overflowing plate, Danielle murmured, "Don’t bother with me. Enjoy your meal as

into her well-rehearsed role of a devoted daughter, expertly distributing

every action emphasized her intimate familiarity with the family-a calculated display of who truly

watched her performance with narrowed

Joseph spoke frankly to Danielle. "If Audrey’s presence bothers you, I’ll set her up elsewhere. You shouldn’t