Penny looked up at Christian and closed her eyes to give a smile. [color=f49ac2]"Thank you, Christian. Perhaps once I've learned all that I need to know, or am at least comfortable with fighting, then we can leave Oklahoma."[/color] Penny felt her phone buzz in her pocket and she pulled it out. Charles was calling- which caused Penny to furrow her eyebrows. She glanced up at Christian before answering and putting it on speaker. 

[color=f49ac2]"Charles? Is everything okay?"[/color]

"Hey Penny. Just wanted to let you know that Annie and Dylan patched me up real good! I didn't want you to worry." His voice sounded slightly pained, but remained jolly. 

[color=f49ac2]"I'm glad you're okay. Listen- I know I told you I would give you my answer in the morning, but I've been doing some thinking tonight,"[/color] Penny cleared her throat. She was going to wait, but she already made her decision. There was no need to drag it out. [color=f49ac2]"I appreciate your offer. You're really sweet and I'm grateful to all three of you for all you've done these last two days. I can't go with you, though." [/color]

There was a long pause on the other end and then a heavy sigh. "I'm not going to lie, Penny. I really like you. You're sweet, kind, beautiful, strong... I'm a little sad, but hey, it is what it is! Thank you for giving me a chance. Just answer me this: Is it because of Christian?"

Penny paused. Would it be terrible of her if she said yes? [color=f49ac2]"Maybe. We're still mourning my friend. It feels wrong to leave him, but also... There are a few things I have to figure out."[/color]

"Well, hey, whatever it is you have to do, I hope it goes smoothly. If you ever need help again or decide you want to travel with us, there's always a spot open for you. You know how to get ahold of us. You're going to be one hell of a hunter, Penny."

[color=f49ac2]"Thanks Charles. Travel safe. Bye."[/color] Penny hung up the call and placed her phone on the counter with a grin. [color=f49ac2]"Well, there's that."[/color] She took another tequila shot from her wine glass before pouring another one and offering it to Christian. [color=f49ac2]"No dates, no boyfriends. Just training."[/color]