Not A Small-Town Girl

Danielle, unprepared, tumbled into David’s chest.

David reacted instantly, wrapping his arms around her. She was soft and warm, and for a moment, he just held her there, reluctant to let go.

"My apologies, Mr. Charrington, Miss Darling!" Nathan called, sounding overly repentant.

David shot him a look. "Drive carefully."

Then he glanced down at Danielle, his tone softer. "Are you alright?" His gaze was steady, his eyes dark and intense, like the night sky scattered with stars.

Danielle felt her cheeks heat under his stare. Her heart raced. "I’m fine," she muttered, sitting upright as quickly as she could.

The rest of the drive passed in silence, though the air between them felt charged.

Nathan announced, "Mr. Charrington, we’re at Treeside

the car, turning to David. "I’m heading

lingering on her as if he could

room, Danielle’s phone buzzed

Healer. It’s a complex case, and they’re desperate for

swiftly across the screen. [I’m

on her plate-work at the lab, her grandparents’ health-it all needed

blank check. Whatever the price,

After a quick shower, she slid into bed and let sleep take her. In a shadowy corner of the Darling family estate, a figure typed out a cautious message, their

eldest daughter has been found. Rumor has it her medical skills are exceptional. She’s been seen treating Caleb and

man stood by a tall window. Dressed in black, he seemed to merge with the night itself. His eyes,