Not A Small-Town Girl

"It’s his own design," Danielle replied.

Audrey’s chest tightened as though something sharp had pierced her heart. David-the powerful CEO of Charrington Group, the head of the Charrington family-had designed a necklace for her.

For Danielle? What was it about this girl that made her worthy of such a gesture, while Audrey- polished, poised Audrey-was left out in the cold?

Audrey couldn’t take it anymore. She couldn’t trust herself to stay down there any longer. If she did, she might just grab that necklace and rip it off Danielle’s neck.

"What? David designed this himself?" Vivian and Howard exchanged a look, clearly stunned.

"This design is incredible-so fresh, so elegant, without being over the top. It outshines most of the designs out there. I never would’ve guessed David had such a talent for this. He’s amazing," Vivian said, her face lighting up with excitement. She couldn’t stop praising him. Howard nodded approvingly. "David, you went above and beyond by designing this necklace for Danielle yourself. Danielle, have you ever given David a gift?"

He couldn’t help but compliment David, while also nudging his daughter to think about returning the favor.

Danielle paused, considering his question. She realized with a start that it was always the men giving her gifts-she hadn’t given anything back.

Vivian and Howard exchanged a knowing look. They could tell immediately that their daughter hadn’t thought about reciprocating.

"Danielle, look at this-Charrington’s family heirloom is already yours, and now David has gone the extra mile to design a necklace just for you. You should think about giving him something too. Relationships are a two-way street, you know," Vivian said, her tone full of motherly wisdom.

David smiled warmly. "You’re too kind. I’ve given Danielle gifts, but I never expected anything in return. As long as she’s with me, that’s the best gift I could ever ask for."

Danielle felt a little tug at her heart. She liked what David had said. Maybe love should be a two-way street. She had to start thinking about giving back, too.

"David knows how to say the right things," Vivian said with a proud smile. "He’s tall, handsome, thoughtful, and charming-honestly, once you two get married, David is going to be such a great husband."