Penelope's POV
I returned to the table with controlled steps, anger simmering beneath my composed exterior. The nerve of Bernie to lecture me about my choices, as if his complicated situation with Cassandra was the gold standard of romance.
Frederick was deep into another elaborate tale when I sat down, this time regaling Linda with what sounded like complete fiction about his supposed scholarly achievements.
"Apologies for stepping away," I said, sliding into my chair.
"Frederick was just sharing his discovery of an ancient manuscript at Oxford," Felicity remarked, her expression barely concealing her amusement.
"Indeed," Frederick nodded eagerly. "A manuscript dating back to... er... an early century. Incredibly rare. It documented the lives of... medieval knights."
Early century knights? Even my basic historical knowledge told me that was centuries off.
"Fascinating," I replied, reaching for my wine glass and taking a generous sip.
