Ex Cried as I Wed a Tycoon

Chapter 173

The two of them held each other close, neither willing to let go for a long, lingering moment.

It wasn't until Effie caught a glimpse of what looked like a shadow at the upstairs window that she finally stepped out of Lyman's embrace.

"It's getting chilly out here. Why don't we go back to our room?" she suggested. "Alright, let's go," Lyman agreed with a gentle nod.

With so many relatives visiting the old house today, Lyman knew Effie might be feeling a bit out of place-especially since this was her first time meeting Uncle Healy and Uncle Fowler's families. It was a lot for anyone to take in at once.

Back in their room, Effie tapped her forehead and laughed. "Look at me, I nearly forgot! I have a New Year's gift for you. Wait here, I'll get it."

Lyman just smiled, his eyes warm and knowing. It was as if their thoughts always moved in perfect sync-he'd prepared a gift for her too.

They exchanged presents, each trying (and failing) to hide their anticipation.

Effie reached into her bag and pulled out a velvet box, handing it to Lyman with a hopeful look. "Open it-see if you like it?"

with intricate vines and blossoms. When he opened it, he discovered a

the photo. His voice was huskier

eyes sparkling with mischief. "I snipped it out last time I was going through the photo albums.

low chuckle, snapping the watch shut and

a deep blue velvet

a striking blue diamond. Under the lamplight, the gem shimmered like the heart of the ocean. On the back of the diamond's setting,

said softly, brushing a strand of hair from her cheek. "It was called 'Poseidon's Tear.' But

burned with happy tears. She clutched the necklace, then rose on tiptoe and pressed a

she thought, to be cherished

eyes darkened. He took the necklace, his warm breath brushing her

light, resting right at the center of Effie's collarbone.

he murmured, his voice rougher than

her head to look at him. "An auction? When did

conference ended

moment I saw it, I knew it belonged