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 a

neither Lyman

to spread-maybe Shirley was

big projects since joining The Etheridge Group and rooting out a major problem in the company-he was officially

surprised. They all knew Effie's talent; even without the promotion today, it was only a matter of time before she

with this result?" Lyman suddenly

would clap, he'd start. Lyman began applauding, and the others quickly

equal parts grateful and exasperated—so much

vel

all business again.

an important matter need

with you."

waiting for her response, he

What could be so urgent or so secret that

just say it in front of

she followed him

door," Lyman

as Effie turned around from shutting the door, Lyman moved in-fast-catching her wrists and pinning her gently between the door

nerves fluttering in her

lips curled in a satisfied smile at her

chin up, drawing close,

in alarm. There was a whole office full