Not A Small-Town Girl

Chapter 9-1

"You’re overthinking this," David said to his grandfather. "Get some rest. I have company matters to attend to, so I’m leaving now." Without waiting for a response, he strode toward the door, desperate to escape another lecture.

His phone buzzed with messages from the "Soufield Handsome Man Group Chat-a name that made him cringe, though its members could sway the entire nation’s economy with a single decision.

Joshua Barnes: [Drinks at Divine Club tonight?]

Andrew Graham: [Perfect, it’s been too long.]

Cameron West: [See you tonight.]

Joshua’s messages flooded David’s screen. [@David, don’t tell me you’re bailing again!]

[@David, no excuses this time.]

or I’m camping

then muted the chat before

the Darling residence, Danielle descended the stairs with her small bag. She planned to visit York Pharmacy-her special prescriptions were running low, and it had been too long

she passed the garden terrace, she spotted her parents enjoying their morning

come try Mom’s freshly

eyes warm

chair, Audrey glided onto the scene. "Oh, you’re having coffee!" She inhaled

poured a cup for

you simply must try

self-importance. ’Poor thing probably only knows

her

specialty coffee? This particular blend..."

I know exactly what’s brewing here," Danielle replied with a sweet

carefully curated influencer smile faltered as she caught Danielle’s meaning