Not A Small Town Girl (Danielle and David) novel Chapter 8

Audrey's stomach churned at Danielle's cold response, taking it as pure arrogance. She couldn't help but study her rival's face—Danielle was stunning, no doubt about it.

But those distant eyes were like ice, almost unnervingly clear, like nothing in this world could ever faze her.

'This is that backwater girl?' she wondered, recalling the lack of useful information in Danielle's background check.

"Audrey, Danielle just needs time to warm up. You'll be close soon enough," Vivian soothed.

Audrey's face softened into a practiced look of pure, lovely, and pitiful innocence. "Of course," she replied obediently, "I'll be a perfect sister."

"Enough talk—you must be hungry, let's eat!" Vivian guided Danielle to the table laden with both their girls' favorites.

Joseph's unexpected arrival sparked surprise. As CEO of the Darling Group, he rarely had time for family meals.

"Joseph, what brings you home for dinner?" Howard asked.

"Here for my dear sister," he replied simply, his gaze warming as it settled on Danielle.

Audrey's perfectly manicured nails dug into her palms, but her smile never wavered. "How wonderful that you made time for Danielle. Isn't it lovely?" Each word dripped honeyed venom.

Danielle's indifferent glance and silence made Audrey burn with both embarrassment and rage. With their parents and Joseph present, she could only maintain her hurt expression.

Throughout the meal, their parents and Joseph showered Danielle with choice morsels. Each gesture twisted deeper into Audrey's heart—her brother had never shown such care toward her.

"Enjoy more, darling. You're too thin." Vivian fussed over Danielle.

Looking at her overflowing plate, Danielle murmured, "Don't bother with me. Enjoy your meal as well."

Audrey launched into her well-rehearsed role of a devoted daughter, expertly distributing everyone's favorites. "I'll learn your preferences soon, Danielle!"

While Danielle remained unmoved, Audrey's every action emphasized her intimate familiarity with the family—a calculated display of who truly belonged at this table.

Joseph watched her performance with narrowed eyes.

*****

Later in the garden, Joseph spoke frankly to Danielle. "If Audrey's presence bothers you, I'll set her up elsewhere. You shouldn't have to compromise in your own home."

The moment he was on the mend, he was eager to marry off his grandson. "That angel who saved me—such a beauty! Did you see her? Have you paid her yet? Though she's probably too good for you anyway.

"I heard you didn't feel for the Darling heiress. Since their real daughter's still missing, maybe settle for their adopted one? She clearly fancies you."

David's expression held a mix of helplessness and exasperation at his grandfather's relentless matchmaking, which sounded like a mantra in his ear. "Doctor's orders—less talking, or your heart condition might flare up again."

Logan bristled at his words, puffing up like an offended cat. "What kind of grandson tries to muzzle a sick old man? Always too busy to spend time with me!" he huffed, turning away with exaggerated hurt. His theatrical sulking was clearly designed to guilt-trip David.

"That's what happens when you start talking the moment you open your eyes," David replied. Only his grandfather could get away with such pestering—anyone else wouldn't even get the chance to speak.

"I'm ending the engagement," he declared firmly..

"This was arranged since childhood! How can you just break it off? You're making me break my word!" Logan turned his head away dramatically, showing David his back—a clear signal he was upset and needed coaxing.

"You made the arrangement—if you won't fix it, I'll have to," David replied flatly, refusing to humor his grandfather's theatrics.

"Breaking a childhood promise! Unless..." Logan's eyes sparkled with gossip-hungry interest. "You've found someone? When do I meet her?"