And she wasn’t letting go.
?
On her way back, Arden slipped into the corner café Penny swore by, a cozy spot with antique brass fixtures and the steady hiss of espresso in the air.
The baristas didn’t even bother with names. They gave a knowing nod and got to work.
She ordered Penny’s usual: an oat milk latte with extra foam and a chocolate croissant so golden it looked freshly pulled from a dream.
The layers flaked at the edges, light catching on the sugar-crusted top.
As Arden waited, she fired off a quick text.
Latte and croissant acquired. Don’t say I never do anything for you.
Penny’s reply came before she could lock her screen:
Penny: You’re my favorite person alive. Except maybe whoever invented extra foam.
Arden laughed under her breath, shaking her head as the barista handed her the warm cup and bag.
When she stepped inside the apartment, Penny was mid-spin, practically vibrating with energy, her laptop abandoned on the counter.
“You’re a lifesaver,” she declared, clutching the latte and croissant with reverence.
She took a long sip, eyes closing like she’d found inner peace.
“Okay. Now we move.”
She pointed at Arden with croissant-crumb conviction.
“Mom’s already prepping a bread tasting, and if we don’t leave in five, we risk missing the cinnamon rolls. And Arden?”
Her voice dropped to a dramatic whisper.
“They. Are. Legendary.”
Arden laughed, pulling on her coat.
“You weren’t kidding about the chaos, huh?”
Penny’s grin widened, all brightness and mischief.
“Please. Haverford chaos is a lifestyle. Consider yourself formally initiated.”
She slung her bag over one shoulder. “Come on. If we’re late, my mom will serve a pre-appetizer. Don’t ask.”
Arden followed her out, grateful for the first genuine smile of the day.
?
As they stepped into the brisk afternoon, Arden glanced back at the apartment.
The stark image of the rose against the threshold clung to her like a whisper that wouldn’t fade.
The unease hadn’t left.
It hovered, quiet and watchful.
