Not A Small-Town Girl

attention of everyone nearby. The security guards at the entrance stared, momentarily stunned.

One guard quickly approached the car. As the doors opened, a man stepped out, his face hidden by a hat and mask, followed by a woman whose beauty seemed almost otherworldly. The guard couldn’t help but gawk.

Danielle noticed the lingering stares, but before she could react, Xavier, still recovering from the dizzying ride, snapped, "What are you staring at?"

The guards snapped out of it and stammered apologies. "Sorry! We didn’t mean to stare."

Xavier, protective as ever, pulled Danielle close. "Come on, Danielle. Let’s head in. Anything you want, it’s on me," he declared grandly.

with Xavier’s face mostly hidden, his tall,

a luxury boutique. The moment they stepped inside, a salesperson approached, her eyes

rack of clothing and added, "This dress, for example, is a limited- edition piece designed by Celia Clark herself. It’s truly one of a

was familiar with Celia’s work. The designer had been making waves in the fashion world

the salesperson quickly

eyes lit up. "Danielle, this one is perfect for you," he said, holding it up and looking

couldn’t help but smile at his enthusiasm. Taking the dress, she headed to the