Ex Cried as I Wed a Tycoon novel Chapter 188

It was probably the first time she’d ever gazed at a man with such obvious infatuation, completely zoning out for so long. But honestly, who could blame her? Lyman was just unfairly gorgeous—so striking it was impossible not to sneak a few extra glances.

Effie cracked the window for some fresh air. The cool breeze brushed her face, and finally, she started to feel like herself again.

“So, um… why did Mom want us back at the old house again? Did something happen?” Effie asked nervously.

Lyman slowed the car, freeing one hand to squeeze hers gently. “No matter what’s going on, I’ll always be by your side,” he said softly.

Effie shot him a look, torn between laughing and crying. “Now you’re making me even more anxious.”

Lyman let out a soft laugh. “Guess I’m not very good at comfort, huh?”

Effie winked at him. “You’re fine, really.”

“Oh?” Lyman glanced over, trying to decide if she was teasing or genuinely reassuring him.

“Eyes on the road,” Effie coughed, stifling a smile.

With a resigned chuckle, Lyman turned his full attention back to driving.

Soon enough, they pulled up outside the Etheridge family estate.

Effie clambered out of the car, arms weighed down with bags of gifts—big and small.

“There’s no need for all this formality; you’re family,” Bancroft said warmly, his eyes soft with affection.

Effie thought to herself: That’s what people always say, but she’d always believed in the old saying—no one hits a smiling face. She just wanted to make a good impression, even if it was subtle.

Lyman chimed in, “I told her the same thing, but she insists it’s not about etiquette. She just cares about everyone, so she put real thought into picking things everyone would actually use.”

Effie nodded. “They’re not expensive gifts, but I really hope everyone likes them.”