Ex Cried as I Wed a Tycoon

Chapter 145

Effie stood to the side, watching Lyman's back. Her heart pounded so hard it might burst, a strange, indescribable feeling welling up inside her.

She had never seen this side of Lyman before-furious and ruthless, yet somehow, it made her feel safe.

Yes, that was it. He made her feel completely, utterly safe.

Lyman turned to face her then, the ferocity in his eyes vanishing in an instant, replaced by deep concern. "Are you alright? Has something like this happened before? Why didn't you tell me?"

Effie shook her head, but felt her eyes begin to sting. "I'm fine... Thank you for getting here in time."

She still felt shaken; her heart hadn't quite settled down.

Mr. Smith really was out of his mind.

Lyman reached out and touched her cheek gently, his voice softening. "I promise, this will never happen again."

Effie looked up at him, and for a moment, the man standing before her seemed more reliable than anyone she'd ever known.

She pressed her lips together, hesitated, then asked quietly, "What about the partnership...?"

raised an eyebrow.

her voice. "That's a

worth risking

chest. She

caught the dazed look on her face and couldn't resist giving her cheek a

trance, Effie suddenly threw her arms around his waist,

time, she

arms gently around her. "You silly thing.

then, Mrs. Smith hurried

came forward, her face flushed with apology. "Mrs. Etheridge, I am so sorry! I should have kept that

She never expected Rankin to

with Effie, something inside Mrs. Smith seemed to click into place. She was

at Mrs. Smith in surprise. Despite her immaculate makeup, Mrs. Smith couldn't hide the weariness at the corners of her eyes. She clutched a folder tightly

isn't your fault..." Effie said

a bitter smile and handed the folder to Lyman. "Mr. Etheridge, these are the records I've collected over the years-tax evasion, bribery, and... other things best left

was stunned-she hadn't imagined Mrs. Smith had gathered so

preparing for this day