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.

wore an elegant deep red evening gown, adorned with a set of exquisite emerald jewelry. She looked

The ancestral home was as imposing as ever, with luxury cars lining the driveway-a testament to the distinguished

of her car and walked through the grand doors that felt both familiar and strange after all

the foyer, exuding all the airs of a master and mistress of the house. Vera was dressed to the nines in a lavish gown, her arm

smile faltered

here! Effie, Lady Selma was just asking about you," Vera called out, feigning

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

see Effie's reputation torn to shreds. Just thinking

nodded and offered no more than a curt greeting before making her way

here," she said

genuine affection. "Effie, you made it! Come, let me have a good look

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

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