Penny's POV
From New York.
My chest tightens as I take the envelope from Dad, my name typed neatly on it. Everyone in the living room falls quiet.
I slide my finger under the flap of the envelope and pill it open. I take out the paper inside the envelope paper and read, my pulse roaring with every line:
"Dear Miss Clarke,
We regret to confirm receipt of your rejection letter regarding the editorial position and the fellowship offer. While we are disappointed by your decision, please know the door will remain open for future opportunities. We wish you the very best in your chosen path.
Sincerely,
The New York Review Board."
By the time I finish, the words blur. Not because I regret it... but because this letter makes it final that i'm not going to New York anymore.
I'm staying.
The silence stretches for a while with everyone looking at me. Then Nick whistles low, breaking the silence. "Well, guess we won't be shipping you off to the big city after all, sis."
