Ex Cried as I Wed a Tycoon

Chapter 138

"My apologies, I really am sorry. I got a bit carried away with the good mood and the drinks tonight. Really, I apologize," Mr. Smith stammered, awkward and

contrite.

“I hope there won't be a next time. I'm quite particular about those things, so I hope you'll understand," Effie replied coolly.

With that, she didn't give Mr. Smith another chance to speak. She turned and strode away, not looking back.

Mr. Smith watched her retreating figure, a brooding look flickering in his eyes.

Effie felt utterly disgusted.

She couldn't shake the feeling that her hand was filthy. The moment Mr. Smith had reached out to grab her, she'd felt goosebumps race up her arms.

She dug a pack of wet wipes from her purse and scrubbed her hands, trying to wash away the sensation.

When she returned to the dining room, Lyman was waiting, his brow faintly furrowed, gaze fixed on the doorway. He was clearly looking for her.

little. He leaned

a scene at the dinner table, so she just smiled and

up on the forced brightness in her smile, but given the company, he let it go. He simply gave her hand a gentle squeeze. "Tired? Do you want to head back

"I'm fine. Mrs. Smith is still here-I'll stay

as well, cheeks flushed, his eyes unfocused. He was clearly even drunker than before. He sat down, but kept casting sidelong glances at

truth, Mr. Smith was feeling anxious. He worried Effie might tell Lyman what had happened earlier. He had looked forward to this business partnership for a long time—he couldn't afford to screw

belonged to Lyman, and that he might somehow win her over, filled him

tone perfectly neutral. "Mr. Smith, let's

Smith froze, but quickly forced a smile. "Yes, of course. You're right, Mr. Etheridge. We should all get

something off as well. She stood up, eager to smooth things over. "Thank you both for hosting us tonight, Mr. and Mrs. Etheridge.

glanced at Mrs. Smith, her heart softening with sympathy. She couldn't help but wonder

dinner, Mr. and Mrs. Smith

together they strolled

calm, the breeze rippling the

today tiring? Are you

by his attentiveness. She shook her head. "Not at all. Mrs.