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?"

then replied, "You were away on business.

darkened just a touch, his tone tinged with displeasure. "We're married, Effie. How could I not

this mean he was starting to care about her, even if he

softened her tone. "Alright.

"Are you about

about to leave." Effie had already paid her respects to the matriarch;

up, if she lingered any longer, she'd probably just make

turned; many guests eyed Lyman with surprise and

tycoon, Lyman kept a notoriously low

his sudden appearance at the Bagnold family's birthday event was bound

meet him-none more so than Shepard, who could barely contain

stepped forward, addressing Lyman with eager politeness. "Mr. Etheridge, it's such a rare honor to have you here for

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

polite but unmistakable

then he recovered smoothly, nodding. "Of course, Mr. Etheridge. I won't keep you any longer. I hope to visit

inclined his head

to the matriarch, Lyman led

share of life, had noticed

almost intimate about the way Lyman and Effie

Lyman's attention had

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