Penny's POV
The grandeur of Cassandra's estate exceeded every expectation I'd harbored. Nestled within London's most prestigious district, the property belonged in the pages of luxury lifestyle magazines rather than my everyday reality.
Philip waited by the grand entrance, impeccable in his perfectly fitted tuxedo. Two champagne flutes rested elegantly in his hands.
"You're absolutely radiant tonight," he murmured as I approached, extending one glass with that genuine warmth that seemed so natural to him.
"Thank you," I accepted the champagne, desperately hoping my stilettos wouldn't betray me before the evening ended.
His courteous gesture of opening the door carried that inherent refinement that marked his upbringing. The kind of chivalry that should have sent butterflies dancing through my stomach. Instead, I simply appreciated good breeding. Nothing deeper stirred within me.
