Ex Cried as I Wed a Tycoon

Chapter 44

The atmosphere in the living room suddenly lightened, and Effie found herself starting to relax.

She sat beside Lyman, listening as Lindy and Bancroft chatted about family matters. Every now and then, she answered their questions with poise and warmth, fitting in easily.

The more Lindy watched her, the more pleased she became. In her heart, she thought, This girl isn't just beautiful-she carries herself with such grace, and her gentle, polite nature is truly endearing. The more I see her, the more I like her.

Even Friedman, who usually kept quiet, let the stern look in his eyes soften, the critical edge shifting to approval.

Bancroft beamed at Effie. "Sweetheart, you're family now. If you ever need anything, just ask. Don't be shy."

Effie felt a wave of warmth wash over her. Smiling, she replied, "Thank you, Grandpa. I will."

Lyman watched her blending so naturally with his family and reached for her hand, squeezing it gently. He whispered, "Relax. They're easy to get along with, I promise."

She squeezed his hand back, a soft smile on her lips. "I know. I can feel it."

Lindy clapped her hands together with a bright smile. "Alright, it's about time! Let's

to the dining room in high

insisted she shouldn't worry about a thing -all

made it clear she would handle everything. She was determined to throw a

at the table, Effie felt a surge

be welcomed like this, treated with

felt like a different world—no coldness, no disdain; just open

her voice catching. "Thank you, Dad. Thank you, Mom. Thank you, Grandpa... I promise I'll treasure

From now on, you're our daughter. If you need anything, just say so don't stand

at the corners of his mouth as he saw how

around her shoulders and murmured in her ear, "See? I told you

Etheridge home, Effie still felt as if

silently vowed to

...