Chapter 873 This is Red Wine, Low Alcohol Content
Maybe this is what marriage is all about.
Brandon's smile widened, but the coldness in his heart only grew.
"As long as you're happy," he said. "That's enough for me. I can be content just watching you from afar."
"You should pay more attention to the people around you. Maybe you'll meet someone suitable..."
"Let's talk about it later," Brandon said, looking down. "I'm not in the mood right now."
Penelope responded with a soft "mm."
She understood. Isabella had just passed away, and she had chosen Kelvin. It was a significant blow to Brandon.
He was a responsible person. Even though he didn't love Isabella, they had spent many years together, and there were feelings involved.
Now, Brandon was left all alone.
He needed time to heal.
These things couldn't be rushed.
"Want a drink?" Brandon looked at the bottle of red wine on the table. "Imported, a great vintage."
Before Penelope could answer, he had already picked it up.
The dark red liquid swirled in the clear wine glass.
It was indeed a fine wine. Even someone like Penelope, who didn't know much about wine, could tell it was expensive and rare.
After all, today was his birthday.
Once a year, the only person with Brandon to share this meal was her.
He must be lonely.
Who knows when his true love will appear!
Brandon pushed the wine glass towards her. "A little red wine is good for a woman's complexion. Penelope, you don't have to drink much, just a taste."
Afraid Penelope might refuse, he left her no way out.
He had already poured it and placed it in front of her, and he only asked her to taste it. How could she refuse?
Penelope looked at the glass of wine.
She really didn't want to drink. First, because she was on her period, and it wasn't suitable.
Second...
Kelvin would notice!
Even if she drank just a little, he would know!
Penelope blushed easily after drinking, and when Kelvin kissed her, he tasted the faint wine on her lips.
Coming to celebrate Brandon's birthday was already pushing Kelvin's limits. Drinking a bit of wine...
They would definitely argue!
"I... I won't drink," Penelope said. "I need to take care of Sam and Lucy when I get home. If I get drunk, it won't be good."
Brandon looked at her. "Just a taste. It's red wine, low alcohol. You won't get drunk from one sip, right?"
With his strong recommendation, Penelope felt it would be rude to refuse.
Besides, today was his birthday.
"Alright." Penelope nodded, trying to lighten the mood. "The wine you brought out for your birthday must be a treasure. Not everyone gets to taste it, right?"
Brandon laughed. "Exactly. I wouldn't bring it out for just anyone."
He swirled the wine in his glass, his eyes fixed on Penelope's every move.
He didn't miss any of her subtle actions.
Penelope picked up the glass, gently swirled it to let it breathe, then took a sip.
The rich aroma filled her mouth.
Brandon's eyes deepened.
She drank.
He watched her drink.
Brandon's smile showed a hint of satisfaction and pride, but only for a brief moment before he quickly hid his emotions.
"It is good wine," Penelope said, putting down the glass. "It's a shame for someone like me who doesn't appreciate wine."
"This wine reaches its full potential only when you taste it. Because, Penelope, only you deserve it."
"Such flattery! If I had a better tolerance, I'd finish it."
Brandon replied, "If you like it, I'll give you a few bottles."
"No need." Penelope waved her hand dismissively. "The King Manor's wine cellar has plenty of fine wines. I'm not really into them. Don't waste the good stuff on me."
She picked up her knife and fork and resumed eating her steak.
The medium-rare filet mignon was tender and flavorful, with a perfect chew.
Brandon glanced at her, then at the bottle of wine, lowering his head with a noticeable smile.
Just wait for time to pass!
Meanwhile, outside the restaurant.
A Lamborghini pulled up at the entrance, and Kelvin stepped out, tossing the keys to the valet. His expression was cold and imposing.
"Mr. Davis," the restaurant manager greeted him immediately. "Are you here to dine or..."
Kelvin's face remained stern as he asked, "I'm looking for someone. Which private room did Brandon book?"
The manager was in a difficult position.
Brandon was a valued guest, but Kelvin was an even more important guest.
"Not telling?" Kelvin raised an eyebrow. "Are you sure?"
"Mr. Davis, do you have business with Mr. Walker? I can inform him that you're here. He'd be delighted to know."
The manager tried to smooth things over, speaking as diplomatically as possible.
Kelvin glanced at him. "I'm here to celebrate his birthday. If he knows in advance, it won't be a surprise, will it?"
"Oh, you're here for Mr. Walker's birthday," the manager sighed in relief. "Mr. Davis, this way, please!"
Seeing Kelvin's demeanor, the manager had feared something serious was happening, his nerves on edge.
Thankfully, it was just a misunderstanding.
The manager personally led Kelvin to the private room.
Inside, Penelope was focused on her steak.
Her head felt a bit dizzy, and her lower abdomen ached intermittently. She was probably exhausted and needed to go home and rest.
She glanced at the time. She had been there for almost an hour.
It was time to leave.
Penelope put down her knife and fork. "I'm done."
"Just that little?"
"I'm full. I don't eat much at night, afraid of gaining weight."
Brandon looked at her. "You're very slim. You should eat more."
"No," Penelope said, standing up. "It's getting late. I'm glad I could celebrate your birthday with you. Brandon, I wish you not just happiness today but every day."
It was her most sincere wish!
"Thank you." Brandon stood up as well. "I'll walk you out."
"Alright."
Penelope didn't refuse. Finally, she could leave!
It was only natural for Brandon to walk her out.
Outside was a public area, with other people around, which made Penelope feel more at ease.
She was increasingly uncomfortable being alone with other men, always feeling awkward and unnatural.
Penelope turned and walked towards the door.
She was wearing high heels, not very high, but the private room had a carpet, making her steps unsteady.
Moreover, she felt dizzy, seeing double, and her body felt hot, making her mouth dry.
Brandon walked beside her, his arm occasionally brushing against her.
As they approached the door, Brandon stepped ahead to open it.
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