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."

moment, Lindy clapped 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

to the dining room

how things were. But Lindy insisted she shouldn't worry about a thing -all she needed to do was be a beautiful

She was determined to throw a grand wedding-after all, a wedding in the Etheridge family was a

around at everyone gathered at the table, Effie felt a

welcomed like this, treated with such

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

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

like it! From now on, you're our daughter. If you need anything, just

smile playing at the corners of

murmured in her ear, "See? I

Effie still felt as if

to cherish

...