Too good to be true

Initially, Penny's approach was carefree and light, making it easy for others to think she had no idea just how serious the situation was. But now, every word out of her mouth was unfiltered, direct, and unfaltering.

"I'm sorry," Penny said, pulling her arm free from the woman holding her. "I'm not saying your decision is good, nor am I saying mine is righteous. There's no right or wrong here. However, just as I respect your choice to honor what Aunt Mildred might want, I'll do what I feel is right. No hard feelings. Please don't stop me."

With that, the smile disappeared from Penny's face. She scanned the people in the kitchen, huffed, holding their gazes, and then slowly turned to leave.

Each of her steps seemed to echo in everyone's ears. They kept their gaze fixed on her back, their lips down turned and their eyes filled with countless unspoken words.