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.

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

drove to Bagnold Mansion. The ancestral home was as imposing as ever, with luxury cars lining the driveway-a testament to

out of her car and walked through the grand doors that

she spotted Shepard and Vera holding court near the foyer, exuding 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

Selma 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.

to shreds. Just thinking about it sent a flicker

more than a curt greeting before making

here," she said

made

the old lady clasped her hands with excitement, her eyes brimming with love. "You're getting

shook her head, reassuring her. "No, Grandma, I'm

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