Chapter 81

Now wasn't the time to dwell on it. Shepard quickly told a servant to fetch Effie.

At that moment, Effie was just coming in from the back garden.

As she entered the main hall, Lyman's gaze found her immediately.

His eyes were deep and hard to read, carrying a hint of concern that almost slipped by unnoticed.

"Effie," Lyman called softly, his voice low and resonant.

She'd told him before that she wasn't ready to go public yet.

Lyman understood-if others found out about Effie's true status, it would only bring her trouble.

Effie was startled to see him—had he come back from his trip already?

And how did he know today was her grandmother's birthday luncheon?

The surprise was plain on her face.

Lyman looked at her, his voice a low murmur. "Today's your grandmother's birthday celebration. Why didn't you tell me?"

away on business. I thought I could stand in

his tone tinged with displeasure. "We're married, Effie.

chest. Did this mean he was starting to care about her, even

tone. "Alright. I'll

nodded. "Are

about to leave." Effie had already paid her respects

lingered any

eyed Lyman

kept a notoriously low profile, rarely showing up at

appearance at the Bagnold family's birthday event

chance to meet him-none more so than Shepard,

politeness. "Mr. Etheridge, it's such a rare honor to have you here for my mother's birthday. Why not stay a while longer

Today is a special day for your mother-of course I would come. But I'm afraid I have some business matters waiting

a polite but unmistakable

second, then he recovered smoothly, nodding. "Of course, Mr. Etheridge. I won't keep you any

his head

goodbyes to the matriarch, Lyman

her share of life, had

about the

Lyman's attention had barely

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