Ex Cried as I Wed a Tycoon novel Chapter 35

Lyman turned his head, his gaze settling on Effie’s slightly pale face. His brow furrowed with concern.

He could tell something was off. His voice was low and gentle. “What’s wrong?”

Effie shook her head. “It’s nothing. I’m just a bit tired.”

He didn’t press further. Instead, he reached out and took her hand, his palm warm against hers, making her flinch ever so slightly.

“If anything’s bothering you, promise you’ll tell me,” he said, his voice steady and reassuring, wrapping her in an unexpected sense of safety.

She looked at him and nodded. “Yeah. I’m fine. All that mess is behind me now.”

Lyman knew she’d just seen her family—the Bagnolds again. He could guess who she meant by “mess.”

“If it’s behind you, don’t dwell on it. Let’s go get something to eat,” he coaxed, steering the conversation away.

“Alright.”

Suddenly, a car ahead swerved into their lane. The driver slammed on the brakes, tires screeching.

Effie lurched forward from the momentum, tumbling straight into Lyman’s side.

She let out a startled gasp, her fear plain.

Without hesitation, Lyman’s long arms wrapped around her waist, pulling her into his solid, warm embrace.

The interior light cast a soft glow, dim but enough for every awkward detail to be seen.

Effie’s face flushed a furious red, so hot she felt she might combust.

They were far, far too close.

Thump!

Her heart pounded, wild and unsteady, her cheeks burning.

Pressed against Lyman’s chest, she could feel the steady thrum of his heartbeat and breathe in his crisp, clean scent.