Not A Small-Town Girl

Chapter 8-1

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."

"Let her stay. I’m managing fine," Danielle replied, warming to his protective instinct. Though naturally slow to trust, she recognized genuine care when she saw it, and Joseph’s brotherly concern had earned both her respect and appreciation.

"The DNA test," she said simply, handing him the report.

Joseph studied the DNA report-99.99% match confirming their kinship. Though they’d known from her striking resemblance to their mother’s younger photos, seeing the proof satisfied something deep in him.