Ex Cried as I Wed a Tycoon

Chapter 8

"A minor issue?" Effie let out a soft, mirthless laugh, her eyes laced with sarcasm. "Mitchell, you really think this is nothing? Or do you think I'm just someone you can brush off whenever you please?"

Mitchell's brow furrowed, his tone turning cold and clipped. "Effie, don't push your luck. I'll let this go-just this once. Don't let it happen again."

Effie rose from her seat, meeting his gaze with calm determination. "Mitchell, I'm dead serious."

The tension between them thickened in an instant; it was as if the air itself could catch fire.

Mitchell's fists clenched at his sides, but after a moment, he let out a bitter chuckle and strode toward the door.

"Effie, I hope you think this through."

He tossed the words over his shoulder and left the office without looking back.

The door slammed shut behind him. Effie stood silently for a moment, drawing a deep breath, forcing herself to steady the turmoil inside.

work. Soon she'd hand

Etheridge Manor

the stately brickwork of the historic estate. The car

hit the ground, and Lyman, with his impossibly long legs, strode into

was watching TV. At the sound of footsteps, she looked up, her face lighting up as she called

come home! So, did you finish looking through all those photos I

66

a little with resignation. "Mom, that's actually what

"What, I was just giving you more options! Who knows, maybe you'd prefer a

I assure you, I'm perfectly straight. Can you please stop with all

waved a dismissive hand, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Oh, don't be so uptight! It's the twenty-first

his navy-blue tie. "Mom, you don't have to worry. I've

look of pure disbelief. “Yeah, sure. If you're so confident, why don't