Ex Cried as I Wed a Tycoon

Chapter 394

"Lyman, where are you off to?" Randell called after him.

"Mixing a little business with pleasure," Lyman replied, not even slowing his stride.

Randell and Fenton exchanged a knowing look, as if they'd seen this coming a mile away.

Lyman beckoned Luther to follow, and together they made an unannounced entrance into the Design Department.

Without any preamble, Luther, on Lyman's behalf, commended Effie and Shirley in front of everyone. Shirley especially had outdone herself lately, and so, with a nod from Lyman, she was promoted from probationary to full-time designer.

"Whoa! Wait-I'm not dreaming, am I?" Shirley practically bounced with excitement.

She threw her arms around Effie, grinning like a child. "Effie, pinch me! Quick, pinch me, I need to know this is real!"

Effie hesitated, smiling. "You do it. Give yourself a slap-it'll work better."

"Alright!" Shirley let go, dashed over, and gave Luther a good-natured smack on the hand.

Luther stared at her, dumbfounded. He'd never expected Shirley to actually hit him.

"Didn't even hurt. Am I really dreaming?" Shirley muttered under her breath.

Luther couldn't find the words. Seriously, princess, you hit me-how would you feel it?

After Shirley's little stunt, the whole department fell dead silent. You could hear a pin drop. Everyone gawked at Shirley-she was bold, sure, but of all people to hit, she picked Luther? Didn't she know Luther was Mr. Etheridge's right-hand man, the power behind the throne?

figured Shirley was

Lyman nor

spread-maybe Shirley was

joining The Etheridge Group and rooting out a major problem

particularly surprised. They all knew Effie's talent; even without the promotion today,

unhappy with this result?"

be cherished-and if nobody else would clap, he'd start. Lyman began applauding, and the others

parts grateful and exasperated—so much

vel

her, all business again. "Miss Bagnold,. would

an important matter need

with you."

waiting for her response,

a little bewildered. What could be so

say it in front

followed

the door," Lyman

moved in-fast-catching her wrists and pinning her gently between the door

hitched, nerves fluttering in

curled in a

tilted her chin up, drawing

tingled in alarm. There was a whole office full