Chapter 7-2
Not A Small-Town Girl
Chapter 7-2
Audrey clung to Vivianâs arm affectionately. "I missed you too much to stay away. I brought everyone gifts!"
She distributed her carefully chosen presents. "This Grace skincare set is for you, Mom-this brand is incredibly popular abroad. And Dad, special coffee beans I personally selected for you."
She even brought gifts for the servants. Just then, Danielle entered the living room as Audrey was distributing presents to the staff.
"Danielle, come here!" Vivian beckoned. "Audrey, this is Danielle, our birth daughter. Weâve missed so much of her life, but weâll make it up to her. Weâve discussed it-youâll both be our daughters, with Danielle as your elder sister. Take care of each other."
"Mom, Dad, Iâm so grateful youâre letting me stay after finding your real daughter, Audrey responded with seemingly heartfelt sincerity. But beneath her warm expression lurked murderous thoughts.
Sheâd always known she wasnât their biological child, driving her to work harder for their affection. Yet theyâd never stopped searching for their real daughter. Her brothers were even more distant. She couldnât let Danielleâs return destroy years of careful positioning.
Sheâd cultivated the perfect life as an elite heiress, with powerful brothers and social status. Most importantly,
she was engaged to David.
Thinking of his aristocratic features, she silently vowed he would be hers alone. After all, Danielle had disappeared once before-it could happen again.
Audreyâs sweet smile masked her calculations as she played the understanding daughter.
"Silly girl, youâre both our daughters, blood or not."
Vivian and Howard beamed at their girls.
Audrey turned to Danielle with practiced gentleness.
"Hi, Danielle, Iâm so happy youâre finally home!
Forgive me for not bringing a gift-no one mentioned your arrival. Iâll make it up to you!" Every word subtly emphasized Danielleâs previous absence.
Danielle arched her eyebrow and offered a polite smile that never reached her eyes, her demeanor subtly distant. After years of reading peopleâs true intentions, she easily saw through the calculated act.
For their parentsâ sake, she replied coolly, "Message received. No gifts necessary."