Ex Cried as I Wed a Tycoon

Chapter 137

As evening settled in, the group gathered for dinner at the resort hotel. Laughter and lively conversation filled the air; everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves.

Lyman was especially attentive to Effie. Even while chatting with Mr. Smith, he kept an eye on her, making sure her plate was never empty. Whenever Effie reached for the fish, Lyman would carefully remove the bones for her.

His thoughtful gestures warmed Effie's heart. She turned her head slightly, giving him a gentle smile. "Thank you," she whispered.

Mrs. Smith, watching the exchange, grinned and teased, “Mr. Etheridge, you're spoiling your wife! It's really quite enviable."

Mr. Smith nodded in agreement. "Absolutely. Mr. Etheridge, you're young, successful, and blessed with a wonderful family. You really are living the dream.”

Lyman smiled calmly, though his gaze never left Effie. "I am," he said, "I'm very fortunate."

off guard by his candid words, blushed and lowered her head, hiding behind a

became engrossed in conversation-discussing business, policies, and future plans. Both men clearly knew their stuff. Effie hadn't been following the conversation closely, but even so, she couldn't help but marvel at how knowledgeable Lyman was. Mr. Smith, too, impressed

two men deep in

corridor. Wanting some fresh air, she wandered over, letting the night breeze clear

He looked unsteady on his feet, likely from one too many drinks, and seemed liable to stumble

to approach—after all, there were boundaries

almost immediately, his gaze fixed intently on her. "Mrs. Etheridge! What a

"Yes, I was just about to head back

her. She couldn't put her

made her skin crawl. Maybe she was just

to linger, Effie offered a brief smile and started to walk

suddenly reached out and grabbed her hand. "Mrs. Etheridge, what perfume