Ex Cried as I Wed a Tycoon

Chapter 238

"Sorry I'm late-traffic was a nightmare on the way here," Mr. Patterson said with an easy smile as he entered the room.

Irving Butler, ever the charmer, quickly replied, "Oh, not at all, Mr. Patterson. You're right on time; we just got here a bit early ourselves."

The response seemed to genuinely please Mr. Patterson, who let out a short laugh.

Irving then took a moment to introduce Effie and Nelly to Mr. and Mrs. Patterson.

As soon as Mr. Patterson saw Effie, he said, "My wife couldn't stop admiring the necklace Mrs. Hoffman was wearing earlier. She fell in love with that style, heard it was designed by Bagnold, and now she's hoping to get something beautiful for herself as well."

Effie smiled warmly. "Thank you, Mrs. Patterson, for appreciating my work. I'd be delighted to design a piece just for you-something that matches your style and wishes."

"Really? That would be wonderful!" Mrs. Patterson replied, clearly excited.

Nelly gave a discreet little cough and glanced at Irving for help.

company has quite a few talented designers, and Nelly is one

should take a look

sense; after all,

hovered above it, an unmistakable sound cut through the air—a loud, sputtering noise, like someone had

through the private dining room. It was pungent, overwhelming,

caught between sitting down and bolting from her chair. Her stomach had been unsettled all afternoon, churning with discomfort, but she'd forced herself to hold it together. Unfortunately, when she stood up to hand Mrs. Patterson the tablet, her body betrayed her, and the long-restrained

sound was followed by another burst, and then

exclaimed, clapping a hand over her mouth and nose, her face contorted

Her stomach was now in open revolt. "Excuse me I need the

she wished she could disappear

seemed to underscore the chaos. Combined with the lingering odor and Nelly's retreat, it was too much—the rest of the group scrambled for the

only to gag audibly several times. It

Mr. Patterson, Mrs. Patterson," Irving apologized, his tone genuinely flustered. "I have no idea what happened, but I'm