Ex Cried as I Wed a Tycoon

Chapter 72

He was clever and capable; these days, Effie entrusted most of her affairs to him, knowing she could always count on him.

Once everything was arranged, Effie finally felt at ease.

Since Lyman was still out of town for business, she hadn't mentioned any of this to him. Besides, his position was rather unique, and their marriage had been quite unexpected. The last thing Effie wanted was to cause Lyman any trouble.

She knew Shepard well-if he ever found out she was married to Lyman, he'd stoop to all sorts of shameless antics.

Shepard was nothing if not thick-skinned. Effie knew his type all too well.

Before she knew it, the weekend had arrived.

The Bagnold family was one of the city's most prominent old families, so Selma's birthday celebration was a grand affair. Guests arrived in droves, each carrying a gift to pay their respects.

set of exquisite emerald jewelry. She looked energetic and regal, seated in the place of honor, her

slipped into a simple, tasteful dress and drove to Bagnold Mansion. The ancestral home was as imposing as ever, with luxury cars lining the driveway-a testament to the distinguished

her car and walked through the grand doors that felt both familiar and

all the airs of a master and mistress of the house. Vera was dressed to

Vera caught sight of Effie, her smile faltered for just a moment before she

was just asking

little tramp actually showed up. Vera had been worried Effie wouldn't come, but now she could finally put her little plan into action. She

to shreds. Just thinking

a curt greeting before making

I'm here,"

up with genuine affection. "Effie, you made it! Come, let me

old lady clasped her hands with excitement, her

reassuring her. "No, Grandma,