Not A Small-Town Girl

"Danielle, I really enjoyed today. Rest well." David’s voice cut through her brothers’ fussing.

Danielle paused, slightly surprised that David hadn’t driven off yet. When he got out, he was surrounded by her brothers. "You too. Drive safe," she replied softly.

Her brothers exchanged a look as they watched the exchange. Though their parents had approved of David, they couldn’t help but feel protective. Danielle had only just come home, and they weren’t about to hand her over so easily.

"The world’s full of smooth talkers," Xavier muttered pointedly. "Danielle, don’t let yourself be taken in by sweet words."

"Goodbye, Danielle. And to you all as well," David said before getting in his car, showing no intention of trying to win over Danielle’s brothers.

Seeing David’s smug look, Danielle’s brothers glared after the car, watching it until it disappeared from view. Danielle found their over-the-top reactions amusing. "Why don’t we go inside?" she suggested gently, worried they might actually run after the car if she didn’t speak up.

of her voice, her brothers immediately softened, their fierce expressions melting

Xavier asked, his tone hopeful. "I’ve been meaning to take you shopping, but you’ve been

seeing his enthusiasm, she decided they could wait. "I’m free,"

I’ll take you out tomorrow!" Xavier beamed, more excited than when he’d won an acting

internally,

attention everywhere," Matthew said. "Danielle,

free too," Joseph added quickly,

tomorrow either," Austin chimed

hand, signaling them to stop. "Alright, alright," she said with a playful smile. "I’ll go with Xavier tomorrow. I’ll spend time with the rest

grin, puffing up like a proud peacock. "Don’t worry, Danielle. I’ll make