Ex Cried as I Wed a Tycoon

Chapter 65

"Effie?"

The name caught Mrs. Lloyd's attention. She followed Lindy's gaze and, a moment later, spotted a familiar figure.

Effie.

Mrs. Lloyd's brow furrowed in surprise-what on earth was Effie doing here?

"Hey, I'm back. See anything you like?" Effie had just returned from the restroom and entered the boutique a bit later than the others.

Earlier that morning, Lindy had called and invited Effie out for a day of shopping. Of course, Effie was delighted to accept. Lindy was easy to get along with, never putting on airs as a mother-in-law, and being around her always felt light and effortless.

At first, Effie had been a little awkward around Lindy, but after a few shared dinners at the family home, they had grown as comfortable as old friends. Lindy doted on Effie; whenever she found something delicious or stylish, Effie was always the first person she thought of.

Even Lyman had noticed, half-joking that he didn't feel like the real child in the family anymore. Still, he was genuinely happy to see them getting along so well.

for a heartbeat. Of all the people and all the

since diverged. Now, they were nothing more than strangers who happened to share some history. Effie reminded herself

champagne-colored dress-refined and understated, with a subtle elegance. The dress wasn't from a famous designer, but its quality was unmistakable, rivaling

sneer as she took in Effie's appearance. In her eyes, Effie was still the same penniless girl-probably even worse off now that she'd left

with condescension,

inwardly. She knew Mrs. Lloyd's attitude all too well -the woman had never thought much of her, and that wasn't about to change now. Effie

herself, letting a gentle smile settle on her lips, and walked

reassuring squeeze. "There you are —I was just waiting for you. I thought this dress would look stunning on you. Want to give

a pale blue dress nearby-simple in design, yet elegant

I'll go

Lloyd's. The woman was staring at her in open shock, as if she couldn't

another word, Effie disappeared into the fitting

watched her go, her frown deepening. How did Effie end up here with Lindy? And judging by the way they interacted, they seemed

curiosity, Mrs. Lloyd turned to Lindy. "Mrs. Etheridge, that