Chapter 401

Irwin Lawrence started to make his way over to greet Lyman Etheridge, but one sharp look from Lyman stopped him in his tracks.

Left with no choice, Irwin forced a casual, awkward smile and pretended nothing had happened.

Old Mrs. Lawrence swept over, her face glowing with delight as she greeted Effie Bagnold and Lyman. Her eyes lingered on Lyman, taking his measure, and she nodded approvingly. "Well, aren't you the picture of a gentleman."

Lyman greeted her politely. "Good afternoon, Mrs. Lawrence. I'm Lyman. My wife and I are here today to celebrate your birthday and wish you health and happiness for many years to come."

He handed her a box. "We brought you a small gift."

The moment Mrs. Lawrence glimpsed the elegant bag in Effie's hands, her smile grew even wider. "You're very thoughtful. Zenith Aroma's perfumes don't come by easily."

"I'm glad you like it," Effie replied warmly.

Mrs. Lawrence beamed. "Alright now, don't just stand around-please, everyone, take your seats."

toward Effie. "So, this

up at him for a reaction, but Lyman's eyes were unreadable-his expression gave nothing

overheard you and Mr. Hoffman mention your project's been held up, and that it had something to do with Mr. Lawrence. I thought I might be able

pleased, but... it didn't

beneath the table and said, "Thank you.

This was

realized happiness could look so

Mrs. Lawrence was already serving Effie some food, piling her plate

bit overwhelmed, smiled.

waved her off. "Oh, don't be so formal. We're

"The shrimp is delicious-you like shrimp, don't you? Have some

"I will, thank you."

easy exchange between Effie and Mrs. Lawrence, realizing that Effie seemed to get along with her remarkably well. No wonder, he thought, that what was supposed to be a family gathering had made room for the

passed and familiar faces relaxed, the atmosphere softened and everyone

together, and when dinner ended, the real highlight of the birthday

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