Penny's POV
Dad's voice cuts through the porch air.
"Penelope." His tone is steady, unreadable. "We need to talk. It's about Savannah."
Andrew stiffens beside me, his hand brushing mine ready to shield me.
Dad doesn't linger and just says, "We'll talk in the morning," before retreating back inside.
Andrew lets out a slow breath, jaw tight. "He's not going to make this easy."
I lean into him, whispering, "Neither are we."
He takes my hand in his, then presses a kiss on my forehead before taking me inside.
***
By sunrise the next morning, Mom's already busy in the kitchen with pancakes stacked, and bacon sizzling as she moves between the stove and the table.
Jess sits cross-legged with a notebook in hand, scribbling like she's reporting for The New York Times. Nick steals bacon with one hand while pouring juice with the other.
Dad settles at the head of the table, clearing his throat. "Family breakfast. And Andrew, you too."
Andrew takes a sit beside Nick with a small nod.
