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."

smiled at the suggestion. "Are you sure? That’s too much trouble." "Don’t be silly, David. We’re family,"

to eat, David? I’ll ask the chef to prepare

Danielle, Howard wanted to show

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

at his words. "Alright then, you’re always welcome to come over for

Danielle, she added, "You should bring David here more often for

amused by his efforts to look like the

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

tray of freshly squeezed juices. "Good afternoon, everyone. Here’s some fresh

a small,