Not A Small-Town Girl

When Howard and Vivian heard Audrey’s polite, yet distant tone, they felt a sense of relief. They’d worried Audrey might not accept Danielle and David’s relationship, but it seemed their fears had been unfounded.

Howard and Vivian responded, just as she always did.

David, however, didn’t pay much attention to Audrey. His gaze remained fixed on Danielle. "I’ll pick you up tomorrow and take you somewhere nice to eat," he said, ruffling her hair affectionately.

"I want to eat at home," Danielle replied.

"Oh, but I want to be with you," David said, his voice carrying a hint of playful stubbornness.

Vivian’s face lit up. "Well, then, I’ll have the chef make extra of your favorite dishes tomorrow. You can stay here, and David can keep you company."

feeling a little down, now smiled at the suggestion. "Are you sure? That’s too much trouble." "Don’t

the chef to prepare it for you,"

Danielle, Howard

gave Danielle a soft, affectionate look. "I’m not picky. If

always welcome to come

to Danielle, she added, "You should bring

with himself over simply getting a meal at her house. "Got it," she said with a smile, amused by his efforts to look like the victim just to get a dinner invitation. Meanwhile, Audrey stood off to the side, completely ignored by the group. Not a single person seemed to care about

time again, her family-her parents, her brothers-had dismissed her in favor of Danielle. The jealousy and resentment began

walked in, carrying a tray of freshly squeezed juices.

small, almost