Ex Cried as I Wed a Tycoon

Chapter 27

Lyman's chauffeur had already pulled the sleek black Maybach up to the hotel entrance, its understated luxury blending into the shadows of the night.

With effortless grace, Lyman stepped out and opened the car door for Effie. He waited until she was settled inside before circling around to the other side and getting in himself.

The car glided away from the bustle of the hotel, the city's noise fading behind them.

Effie leaned back against the seat, turning her head just enough to watch the neon lights flicker past the window, their colors painting fleeting patterns across her face.

Sensing her mood, Lyman spoke gently, reassuring her, "Don't worry. You can leave everything to me."

Effie snapped out of her thoughts and forced a small smile. "It's nothing. I'm just a little tired, that's all."

Lyman's gaze darkened, his tone turning icy. "I'll take care of what happened at the party. If she dared lay a hand on you, she'll face the consequences."

Without another word, Lyman called Luther, instructing him to secure the security footage from the business gala-specifically, the moment Effie was pushed into the water.

Effie was momentarily stunned.

on that, let alone stand up for her so openly. Truth be told, dousing Suzan in red wine earlier had already soothed some of her anger, but Lyman's

and cared for-she realized-was deeply

...

the business gala, anticipation hung

Every so often, eyes would

father's instructions, he sent his assistant with her instead. He remained at the event,

flute in hand, Mitchell kept glancing at the door, growing increasingly restless. He'd expected to use tonight as a chance to get closer

he muttered under

around him were

say Mr. Etheridge

he left with some

a woman? That can't be right. Mr. Etheridge is never seen with

But Lyman never showed.

had no choice but to head home. He thought of visiting Suzan, but his father called,

to the Lloyd family estate, the house was still brightly lit. As he pushed open the front door, he found his