Not A Small-Town Girl

Chapter 13-2

"Are you suggesting that we leaked the answers to your sister?" The professors bristled at the implication-an accusation of academic dishonesty that no self-respecting educator would let slide.

"No, I just meant..." Audrey’s eyes filled with carefully calculated tears.

"Having trouble accepting someone might be more talented?" Danielle’s smile held arctic temperatures.

"I’m sorry, Danielle. Mom, Dad, I didn’t mean it that way. Of course, I’m happy she’s so talented. I just spoke without thinking. It’s my fault for expressing myself poorly." Audrey hung her head as tears rolled down her cheeks, the perfect picture of misunderstood innocence.

"Audrey, the very fact you would think such a thing is wrong," Howard said sternly. "How could you doubt your sister like that? Think before you speak next time."

"Exactly," Vivian added, clearly disappointed.

your sister. And don’t ever say

sorry, Danielle,"

spoken to her so harshly. Because of Danielle, she was being forced to apologize. She realized too late she’d moved too

Audrey a cold glance. She was getting tired of this act-ever since she’d returned home, it had been nothing but fake apologies. How many times can someone say sorry while clearly not

the tension. "Danielle can join the incoming

you for everything," Howard said, leading

Audrey’s fingers curled into fists. ’I can’t just sit back and take this anymore, she thought, her face twisting with malice when no one

from the refrigerator

unusually early, Skylar said, watching

to go out. If anyone asks, I’m visiting a sick friend, Audrey replied,