Ex Cried as I Wed a Tycoon novel Chapter 81

Now wasn’t the time to dwell on it. Shepard quickly told a servant to fetch Effie.

At that moment, Effie was just coming in from the back garden.

As she entered the main hall, Lyman’s gaze found her immediately.

His eyes were deep and hard to read, carrying a hint of concern that almost slipped by unnoticed.

“Effie,” Lyman called softly, his voice low and resonant.

She’d told him before that she wasn’t ready to go public yet.

Lyman understood—if others found out about Effie’s true status, it would only bring her trouble.

Effie was startled to see him—had he come back from his trip already?

And how did he know today was her grandmother’s birthday luncheon?

The surprise was plain on her face.

Lyman looked at her, his voice a low murmur. “Today’s your grandmother’s birthday celebration. Why didn’t you tell me?”

Effie hesitated, then replied, “You were away on business. I thought I could stand in for us.”

Lyman’s expression darkened just a touch, his tone tinged with displeasure. “We’re married, Effie. How could I not be here?”

A sudden warmth bloomed in Effie’s chest. Did this mean he was starting to care about her, even if he wouldn’t quite say it?

She softened her tone. “Alright. I’ll tell you next time.”

He nodded. “Are you about ready?”

“Yes, I was just about to leave.” Effie had already paid her respects to the matriarch; she was prepared to go.

Besides, now that Lyman had shown up, if she lingered any longer, she’d probably just make things more complicated for him.

Already, heads had turned; many guests eyed Lyman with surprise and open curiosity.

As a business tycoon, Lyman kept a notoriously low profile, rarely showing up at public functions.

So his sudden appearance at the Bagnold family’s birthday event was bound to draw attention.