We all settled into my apartment, the tension in the room almost tangible. After I offered snacks and beverage, Penny wasted no time in getting down to business.
"Here's what I'm thinking. Timothy, you need to address the rumors head-on. Go out there and admit that you weren't ready to settle down. After the Evie and Alex situation, you realized it was time to get serious."
As I poured two glasses of water for them, I listened in to Penny’s highly animated strategy. I bit my lip, my worry for Timothy's reputation mixing with my own discomfort at the suggestion that we had been dating. But Penny was right – we needed a strategy that would stick, whether it aligned with our personal truths or not.
I handed Penny her water as she continued, her voice steady. "And, Timothy, it wouldn't hu
