Ex Cried as I Wed a Tycoon

Chapter 99

Effie wore a pale blue dress that fell just below her knees, its hem embroidered with magnolia blossoms in shimmering silver thread. The delicate floral pattern complemented her fresh, understated beauty, lending her a gentle and graceful

air.

On her wrist was a pale lavender jade bracelet, a gift from Lyman, which she wore with quiet elegance.

She'd taken special care with her hair that morning, pinning up her long locks with a vintage hairpin.

Everything about her looked refined, tasteful, and perfectly in keeping with the afternoon's tea party theme.

The moment Effie and Lindy entered the room, all eyes turned to them.

"Mrs. Etheridge, and who is this?" A middle-aged woman in a deep navy gown approached, her gaze sweeping appraisingly over Effie before she smiled politely. Lindy returned the smile and patted Effie's hand affectionately. "This is my dear daughter-in-law, Effie."

Effie offered a courteous smile and nodded. "It's lovely to meet you."

striking couple you two make. Miss Bagnold, you

soft pink. "You're too kind," she

the long table, several young society women were already seated, each impeccably dressed, wrists adorned with luxury bracelets, fingers sparkling

Effie approached, their gazes landed on her with a mix of curiosity and

Adeline entered, trailed

bold as it was form-fitting. Suzan had clearly put extra effort into her appearance

gaze across the room and spotted Effie almost

here? She'd never attended events like this before. Since when did Effie have the right to show up at something as refined as

that thought, Suzan purposefully made her way

what a surprise to see you here! Is this your first time at an Afternoon Tea Social?" she asked, her

letting just anyone in these days? I guess the

smiled and spoke up, "Miss Bagnold, so this is your first time joining us? What sort of tea do you

gloating look on Suzan's face, Effie replied calmly, "I usually prefer green tea-something light and refreshing, with a subtle sweetness. It's

mockery. "But compared to, say, Darjeeling or a fine aged Earl Grey, green tea does seem a bit...