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

into a simple, tasteful dress and drove to Bagnold Mansion. The ancestral home was as imposing as ever, with luxury

deep breath, Effie stepped out of her car and walked through the grand doors that

all the airs of a master and mistress of

Effie, her smile

Selma was just asking about you,"

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

see Effie's reputation torn to shreds. Just thinking about it sent

simply nodded and offered no more than a

I'm here,"

"Effie, you made it! Come, let me

with excitement, her eyes brimming with love. "You're getting thinner. Are you working too

reassuring her. "No, Grandma, I'm fine. You don't have

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