Penny's POV
The day continues normal as it should be. Even after Dad's words in the hallway, life marches on as if everything is normal except that it isn't.
Nick still clowns around, Mom hums as she folds laundry, and Jess keeps threatening to steal my shoes. But inside, I feel restless. Like I'm holding my breath for something I can't name.
So when Andrew texts later that evening:Come over. I made dinner. Just us. I don't hesitate. I quickly dress up and drive to his apartment.
***
Andrew's apartment smells faintly of cedarwood and something savory the moment I step inside. He's by the stove, with his sleeves rolled up, stirring a pan with one hand and sipping from a glass of wine with the other hand.
"You've been cooking a lot these days" I tease, shutting the door behind me. "When did this happen?"
He gives me that grin that makes my knees soften. "Since my girlfriend started stressing. Figured food might help distract her."
