He really did want to use this chance to patch things up with Effie, but his pride just wouldn''t let him stoop so low as to beg her.


    After all, he''d always been the one calling the shots in their rtionship-why should that dynamic change now?


    Grinding his teeth, Mitchell said to Effie, "Fine. Just remember to back me up when the timees."


    Effie didn''t respond, which was as good as agreement.


    Mitchell actually felt a surge of excitement deep down.


    He trailed after Effie, practically matching her step for step, almost as if sticking


    close might somehow restore what they''d once had.


    "Effie, why are you walking so fast?" he huffed, struggling to keep up.


    Suddenly, Effie stopped short. Mitchell nearly plowed right into her, catching himself at thest second.


    It was like Effie had eyes in the back of her head-she slipped out of his path in a heartbeat, and he barely managed to keep his bnce, stumbling forward awkwardly.


    Mitchell''s eyes darkened. He fixed Effie with a cold stare. "Effie, you—"


    But before he could finish, Effie strode over to Ryan, who was standing not far away, and greeted him. "Mr. Ryan."


    Ryan was traveling with his wife. He looked surprised to see Effie and Mitchell. "Miss Bagnold! What a coincidence. Fancy running into you here."


    Effie smiled. “Not really a coincidence-we actually came here to find you."


    Mitchell shot Effie a look, his brows knitting in displeasure.


    What was she doing, being so blunt about their intentions? Didn''t she worry Ryan might get annoyed?


    E&M wasn''t Effie''spany anymore, so she didn''t care, did she?


    Mitchell told himself he''d better remind Effie what was at stake.


    "Effie, you-"


    Just then, Mr. and Mrs. Ryan noticed Mitchell and nced back at Effie, a look of understanding dawning on their faces.


    Effie addressed them both. "Would you mind giving us a few minutes?"


    "Of course," Ryan replied.


    They all made their way to the airport''s VIP lounge.


    A staff member brought in tea and an assortment of pastries, then quietly closed the door behind them.


    Now, only the four of them remained in the lounge.


    u''l


    Mitchell, worried Effie might say something reckless and ruin his ns, hurried to speak before she could. "Mr. Ryan, you may have heard some rumors that led to a misunderstanding. But actually, Effie and 1-"


    He reached out toward Effie, giving her a pointed look that was anything but


    subtle. Surely she''d get the message.


    Even though they were sitting side by side, Effie leaned conspicuously closer to Mrs. Ryan, as if she''d rather be anywhere but next to Mitchell. Her obvious aversion practically screamed for attention.


    Ryan spoke up, "I believe apany can only thrive when the people running it have a stable rtionship. Divided loyalties always backfire. first decided to work with your firm because I saw great promise in Miss Bagnold''s designs, and that''s why I was willing to supply you at such a favorable rate."


    "Yes, I know. Over the years, your generosity has given E&M the chance to outpace other jewelry designpanies. We''re truly grateful for your support,” Mitchell replied,ying it on thick.


    In the past, whenever they met with clients, Effie had always been the one to say


    the ttering things while he just sat back and enjoyed the benefits.


    But now that Effie wouldn''t speak up, he had no choice but to do it himself.


    Finishing his spiel, he shot Effie a slightly resentful nce.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!