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."

words, blushed and lowered her head, hiding behind a sip

future plans. Both men clearly knew their stuff. Effie hadn't been following the conversation closely,

really are in a league of their own. With the two men deep in discussion, Effie found herself growing

her way back, she noticed a small courtyard just beyond the corridor. Wanting some fresh air, she wandered over, letting the

Smith approaching. He looked unsteady on his feet, likely from one too many drinks, and seemed liable to stumble at any

feel quite right to approach—after all, there

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

I was just about

Mr. Smith's eyes unsettled her. She couldn't put her finger on it,

skin crawl. Maybe she

brief smile and started to walk past

she moved by, Mr. Smith suddenly reached out and grabbed her hand. "Mrs. Etheridge, what