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, stifling a

turned his full attention back

they pulled up outside the Etheridge family

car, arms weighed

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

what people always say, but she'd always believed in the old saying no one hits a smiling face.

not about etiquette. She just cares about everyone, so she put real thought into

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

win her over. But neither Adeline nor the others had so much as cracked a smile; even

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

asked, reaching for

could dig in, Marcia shot

clearly annoyed, stepped aside with

manners, the Etheridges were in a whole different league compared

rather than extravagant,