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.

of exquisite emerald jewelry. She looked energetic

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

through the

she entered, she spotted Shepard and Vera holding court near the foyer, exuding all the airs of a master and mistress of the house. Vera

her smile faltered for just a moment

look who's here! Effie, Lady Selma was just asking about

had been worried Effie wouldn't come, but now she

Just thinking about it sent a flicker of satisfaction across Vera's

more than a curt greeting

I'm here," she

"Effie, you made it! Come, let me

with excitement, her eyes brimming with love. "You're getting thinner.

reassuring her. "No, Grandma, I'm