Ex Cried as I Wed a Tycoon

Chapter 218

Shirley was absolutely adorable—and so were her spending habits.

She'd happily throw together a hearty meal for just a few bucks, but wouldn't think twice about splurging twice as much on a fancy latte. If the evening called for it, she'd treat herself to a lavish dinner out-maybe a fondue night or a sizzling steakhouse-never letting her taste buds feel neglected.

But ask her to spend a single dollar on a pack of tissues? Absolutely not. No way.

Her philosophy was simple: "Save on the little things, spend on what matters."

Effie was about the same age as Shirley, but after years living with her grandmother, her habits were a world apart. Her grandmother lived by the rules of healthy living: no cold drinks, everything fresh, nothing out of season, and food always light and wholesome.

Effie didn't care much for indulgent treats; the only thing that ever tempted her was seafood.

"This time, if you help me seal the deal, there's a bonus coming our way," Effie told Shirley with a smile. “You'll finally get to spend guilt-free."

Shirley's face lit up. "That's fantastic!"

As the two chatted about their soon-to-be windfall, Nelly approached, catching the tail end of their conversation. Internally, she scoffed. Bonus? In their dreams.

"Effie, that scarf is gorgeous. Where'd you get it?" Nelly asked sweetly. And before Effie could react, Nelly reached out and yanked the silk scarf from her neck.

The fake smile evaporated from Nelly's face. "Why isn't there anything?"

up. She was taller than Nelly, and as she rose, the shift in energy

you hoping to see?" Effie's gaze was icy,

I thought—" Nelly stammered, having expected to find some embarrassing mark, maybe a hickey, hidden beneath the

was nothing there at

wear scarves because they go with my outfit. What did you think?" Effie's

scarf back at Effie.

scarf didn't quite leave her hand. It caught on a rhinestone on her manicured

the pulled thread. "That's my

raising

act like big deal? Did I give

it's

bit her lip—Effie was right. She'd been so eager to expose

sp

she'd made a fool

"I didn't mean to."

Shirley know

even kids e than a

should apologize whem et

you

Don't tell

Shirley a venomous glare. "Who asked for