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."

her hands together with a bright smile. "Alright, it's about time! Let's have dinner-tonight, we've got a feast to celebrate the newest member of

everyone headed to the

Lindy insisted she shouldn't worry about a thing -all she needed to do was be a beautiful bride when

determined to throw a

gathered at the table, Effie

like this, treated with such genuine

family, Lyman's relatives felt like a different world—no coldness,

catching. "Thank you, Dad. Thank you, Mom. Thank you, Grandpa... I promise

"That's more like it! From now on, you're our daughter. If you need

the corners of his mouth

shoulders and murmured in her ear, "See?

home, Effie still felt as

silently vowed to cherish

...