VB 2103 deployment/installer

I use VB 2013. My project reads .txt files and uses .jpg and .mp4 files from C:/ or a folder therein. I am a long time VB 6 user that made installation .exe using Inno-Script (why does this forum *** out that normal word?) and InnoSetUp, all of which work.

I have used "Publish" but find it lacking as it doesn't allow the user to install the program in any folder. I need this as in VB 6 I would set up a Directory to my development folder, e.g Directory ="C:/my project programs/" and when the program was ready I would use Directory = "". Then in ********** I would set the Default Folder to the name of the program, e.g. = "C:/my project".

I can't do this using VB 2013 as Debug halts if it see that Directory. In addition, I don't have a clue how to get an .exe like I did in VB 6, "Make .exe".

So, how does one do this using VB 2013, i.e. getting a .exe using a Directory =""?

I have put the files I need to read/use in a separate folder and set my Direcoty ="C:/separate folder/" which allows the program to work. But then the program is just installed in Programs Files (x86).

Suggestions/comments would greatly be appreciated. Note: I have just begun using VB 2013 (about two weeks) but have about 50 years experience with Fortran and Basic.