Ex Cried as I Wed a Tycoon

Chapter 188

It was probably the first time she'd ever gazed at a man with such obvious infatuation, completely zoning out for so long. But honestly, who could blame her? Lyman was just unfairly gorgeous-so striking it was impossible not to sneak a few extra glances.

Effie cracked the window for some fresh air. The cool breeze brushed her face, and finally, she started to feel like herself again.

"So, um... why did Mom want us back at the old house again? Did something happen?" Effie asked nervously.

Lyman slowed the car, freeing one hand to squeeze hers gently. "No matter what's going on, I'll always be by your side," he said softly.

Effie shot him a look, torn between laughing and crying. "Now you're making me even more anxious."

Lyman let out a soft laugh. "Guess I'm not very good at comfort, huh?"

Effie winked at him. "You're fine, really."

"Oh?" Lyman glanced over, trying to decide if she was teasing or genuinely reassuring him.

Effie coughed,

chuckle, Lyman turned his full attention back to

pulled up outside

clambered out of the car, arms weighed down with bags of gifts-big and

need for all this formality; you're family," Bancroft said

saying no one hits a smiling face. She just wanted

it's not about etiquette. She just

not expensive gifts, but I really hope everyone likes them." She glanced gratefully at Lyman, warmth

so much as cracked a smile; even

test. If the Etheridges reacted the same way, well... she'd know

get?" Fidelia asked, reaching

Marcia shot

clearly annoyed, stepped aside with

good manners, the Etheridges were

out the gifts. Each one was practical rather than extravagant, but somehow, she'd managed to