Not A Small-Town Girl

Chapter 12-1

"Got your breakfast ready, sweetheart," Howard called from the stairs. "Your mom had the kitchen whip up all your favorites."

"Thanks, Dad. But I’m not hungry." Danielle’s hangover pulsed behind her eyes.

Last night’s memories crashed over her-throwing money at a corporate titan, demanding he carry her home... She buried her burning face in her hands. ’Why did I turn into such a hot mess? I never act like that drunk.

But of course, "not hungry" didn’t exist in a parent’s vocabulary, so before she knew it, her dad had already pulled her to the breakfast table.

Audrey seethed in the background, her pristine mask slipping just enough to reveal raw fury at being ignored.

go at Moreno University. When do you wanna take the entrance exam?" Howard said, watching his daughter eat so delicately with

I guess," Danielle mumbled

innocent, like she was the most thoughtful sister

grand buildings seemed to whisper stories of generations

undeniable sense of history here-an air of mystery that made it feel like

Miss Darling already a student here?" His

for our other daughter,"

before he masked his reaction. ’Since when does she play at being a student?’ he wondered but kept his thoughts carefully

I’m Danielle Darling. Looking forward to

before, and now she wants another entrance test? Since when is she

he said diplomatically. "You’ll be taking three core subjects plus your