Wish you were mine

32. The Other half

(A Surprise Update for My Lovely Readers

I hope you're all doing well and enjoying the story so far! From now on, you'll be getting regular and more frequent updates.

I just noticed something - the last chapter received very few likes. Is that normal, or are you not enjoying the story as much anymore? Those likes mean a lot to me; they help me understand whether you're engaged and enjoying the journey. Seeing fewer likes can be a bit demotivating, and I hope you all understand that.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy today's chapter - don't forget to like and leave a comment. Your support truly keeps me going!)

PENELOPE

I rushed out of my room with my heart lodged in my throat, my whole body trembling so violently I wasn't even sure how I managed to make it downstairs. My steps were shaky, my mind in chaos. But as I reached the living room, I froze. There, seated on the couches, were my parents, Sophie, and Sean-gathered together, deep in conversation. It was far too early for all of this.

The sound of my hurried footsteps drew their attention, and four pairs of eyes turned towards me.

Sophie immediately stood up and rushed over. "Penny, what happened?" she asked, her voice thick with concern.
I shook my head, unable to speak properly. "It's...nothing..." I stammered, my voice weak and unconvincing.

Mom frowned, her soft eyes scanning me. "Sweetheart, you look pale-and terrified," she said quietly.

I forced a laugh, though it came out strained. "Mom, really. I just woke up... I probably just look a mess because of that," I tried to explain, though I doubted I was fooling anyone.

Sophie wasn't convinced. Her brow furrowed as she took a step towards the stairs. "Are you sure? You rushed down here like something was chasing you. Maybe I should check your room."

Panic surged through me, and I quickly grabbed her hand to stop her. "No! Please, it's nothing..." I sighed deeply, feeling the weight of everything start to crush me. My vision blurred with unshed tears.

Without another word, Sophie wrapped her arms around me, pulling me into her comforting embrace. "Talk to me, Penny," she whispered softly.

I took a shaky breath, leaning into her warmth. "When I woke up," I began, my voice trembling, "there was a bouquet of dead flowers on my bedside table. They looked like they came straight from a graveyard..."

Sophie jerked back, her eyes wide with shock. "What?!" she practically shouted.

"Did you see any maids go into my room?" I asked desperately, hoping there was some simple explanation.

Mom shook her head, her expression turning serious. "No. I specifically instructed everyone not to disturb you while you were sleeping."

A shiver ran down my spine. "Then where did the flowers come from?" I murmured.

Sophie's jaw tightened. "Someone's messing with us," she muttered darkly.

Then, like a dark cloud rolling in, Sean's voice cut through the air. "I suppose this is where Sophie blames herself again for not protecting you properly," he said, his tone dripping with sarcasm.

"Don't," I snapped, my voice trembling with fury as I turned to glare at him.

"Don't you dare say anything about her!"
Sean raised his hands in mock surrender, but his words stayed sharp. "I'm just pointing out that she was quick to pin the blame on me yesterday."