Not A Small-Town Girl

backing out? No. This was her chance. She had to convince him.

[I can’t make a move right now. But I’ll send you something soon that will help you. After that, your family will start favoring you over her. When that happens, you’ll be able to get whatever you want.]

Audrey stared at the message, feeling a mix of confusion and curiosity. What could this be? [Then I’ll wait for it. Thank you, Sir.]

She sent the message and sat there, waiting, but no further replies came.

David had already left, leaving only Danielle, Howard, and Vivian downstairs.

"Danielle, you’ve had a long day. Go upstairs and take a bath," Howard said, his tone warm but firm. He knew how hard his daughter worked. He never asked her too many questions about what she was up to-he just wanted her to be happy. "Yeah, Danielle, go upstairs and relax for a bit. You won’t be seeing much of us over the next few days," Vivian added with a hint of reluctance. She wished she could shield Danielle from all the pressures of life and let her enjoy being young, like a princess with no cares.

him about something," Danielle explained,

for him and still doesn’t come back on time? I’ll call

the door opened, and Joseph walked in, phone in hand. "Dad,

His son was always making

from the entrance. Then they saw Joseph. "Dad, why are

waiting for you," Howard said, his voice

at the clock-only 7 p.m. "Sorry, Danielle. I had a last-minute meeting,

You’re not late. Now

smiled, relieved and happy to have her around

you eaten yet?" Danielle asked, noticing