ã€ŠEx Cried as I Wed a Tycoonã€‹


 Chapter 1

    The upper-level lounge at Neo-Arcadia radiated extravagance-every surface gleamed, every corner hummed with the scent of money. It was the city''s most notorious den of indulgence.

    Effie Bagnold paused outside a private suite, her slender hand poised on the polished brass handle. Just as she was about to enter, a familiar voice drifted through the door.

    "Effie Bagnold? Already bored of her," Mitchell Lloyd drawled, lighting a cigarette and exhaling a thin plume of smoke. His tone was tinged with careless arrogance.

    A chorus ofughter rose from inside. "Can''t me you," someone chimed in. "Even the prettiest face gets old after a while."

    "But, Mitchell, can you really let her go? You chased her for years-three years together, that''s not nothing."

    "And Effie''s stunning. She could outshine any Hollywood star," another voice added.

    Mitchell gave a dismissive chuckle, his blue eyes glinting dangerously, a hint of red at their corners betraying too much alcohol. "Why would I care? I''d rather have a girl who''s soft and sweet, like Suzan. She''s gentle as a summer breeze. I''ve had enough of this on-and-off thing with Effie. It''s just... dull."

    Someone whistled. "Wait-Suzan Bagnold? Isn''t she Effie''s stepsister? You''re really taking the whole family tour, huh?"

    Mitchell grinned, savoring the moment. "Suzan''s adorable. She calls me ''Mitch,'' and I just melt."

    "You''re an inspiration, man. Women-they''re just toys, right?"

    "But she''s still-"

    Laughter and teasing filled the room, echoes bouncing off the velvet walls. Outside, Effie''s grip tightened on the handle. She heard every word, clear as crystal.

    Mitchell''s words sliced straight through her, cold and sharp as a de.

    She never imagined Mitchell would stoop so low as to get involved with Suzan.

    Drawing in a steadying breath, Effie pushed the door open.

    Instant silence. Every man in the room stiffened, ncing at one another, wondering how much she''d overheard.

    Chuck, quick on his feet and always the peacemaker, jumped up with a forced smile. ¡°Effie! d you''re here. Come, have a drink.¡±

    She ignored him, walking straight to Mitchell, her voice icy. "Mitchell, we''re done. I''m breaking up with you."

    Without waiting for a response, she grabbed a ss of red wine off the table and flung it straight into Mitchell''s face. Then she turned and strode out, head high.

    Mitchell sputtered, wiping wine from his eyes, his voice cold with anger. "Effie, if you walk out that door tonight, we''re finished. For good."

    He sounded so sure of himself-after all, he''d always held the reins in this rtionship.

    During their three years together, he''d dated actresses, flirted with college girls, even hooked up with women from his ownpany. Effie had always turned a blind eye. They''d broken up and gotten back together countless times, but it was always Effie who caved first.

    So Mitchell was convinced this was just another empty threat.

    Effie paused at the door. Mitchell smirked, thinking she''de crawling back.

    But without a second''s hesitation, Effie walked out.

    Mitchell''s confidence flickered.

    One of his friends muttered, "Mitchell, I think she''s really mad this time. Maybe you should go after her."

    He scoffed. "Go after her? You guys don''t get it. Give it a couple hours, she''lle crawling back. She always does." He spoke like Effie was his pet, trained and predictable.

    No one argued. History was on his side-Effie never stayed away for long. They figured this time would be no different.

    Out in the hallway, Effie barely registered her surroundings. She was so lost in thought, she didn''t notice the man rounding the corner until she collided with him, hard.

    A distinctly masculine scent enveloped her, heady and intoxicating. She suddenly felt feverish.

    He wore a ck dress shirt, top buttons undone to reveal a chiseled, elegant corbone. His tailored trousers hugged long, powerful legs. Everything about him radiated wealth and aposed, maic sort of charm.

 Chapter 2

    A faint, golden light illuminated the contours of the man''s face, sharpening his

    striking features. He looked distant, his expression cool and detached aloof restraint that was both forbidding and irresistibly alluring.

    He frowned slightly, about to turn and leave.

    an air of

    Suddenly, Effie''s slender, pale fingers gripped the sleeve of his dress shirt, clinging to him as if he were herst lifeline.

    Her heart raced, and the man''s unique scent seemed to swirl around her, clouding her senses. shes from the private lounge reyed in her mind, and she found herself thinking-if Mitchell could do it, why couldn''t she?

    "Let go," the man said, his entire being radiating an icy, imcable chill.

    "No," Effie replied, her voice as soft and teasing as a kitten''s purr, the kind that tugged at your heart and made you want to draw closer.

    He nced down at her, the corners of his mouth curving faintly.

    "No? Do you even know what happens next if you don''t?" His tone wasced with danger and a dark, maic charm.

    "Would you be interested in marrying me?" Effie''s eyes were rimmed with red, but she gathered all her courage to get the words out.

    She knew it sounded insane.

    But she just wanted someone-anyone-to marry. This wasn''t a drunken impulse; she was entirely serious.

    Her grandmother was getting old and always wished she''d settle down. She was supposed to marry Mitchell, but after tonight, that was never going to happen.

    Effie didn''t want her grandmother to worry, and she didn''t want to give herself a chance to look back, either.

    Any man was better than Mitchell, that cheating bastard.

    She noticed the man wasn''t wearing a ring. Probably single.

    She had to try, right?

    Besides, his crisp, clean scent wasn''t unpleasant to her at all. If anything, it made her feel oddly at peace.

    For the first time that night, her mind was perfectly clear.

    He spoke, his voice cool and steady. In the next moment, he lifted her chin gently with his fingertips, forcing her to meet his eyes. She took in his refined, almost otherworldly features-eyes clear and deep, face a blend of innocence and seduction, the kind of beauty that could drive a person to sin.

    It was him.

    "Are you sure? Do you even know who I am?" His voice was low and resonant, thick with a maic pull that made her heart skip.

    Effie''s head jerked up in shock.

    Lyman Etheridge.

    How could it possibly be Lyman?

    Who was Lyman, anyway?

    He was the famous prince of Neo-Arcadia-enigmatic, influential, and rumored to have conquered Wall Street at fifteen. When he so much as tapped his shoe, the entire city paid attention.

    With striking looks and a fearsome reputation, Lyman was the sort of man socialites lined up to marry. Brilliant, ruthless, utterly untouchable-crossing him usually meant disaster.

    He was thest man anyone in their right mind would dare provoke.

    Effie stared at his cold, sharp profile, hershes trembling minutely. Every instinct screamed at her to run.

    In fact, she''d met Lyman twice before.

    The first time, she''d been cornered during a business negotiation, and it was Lyman who''de to her rescue.

    Later, at a formal g with Mitchell, she realized the mysterious man who had helped her was Lyman. He gave off an aura of bone-deep chill, dark and imprable.

    No one with sense would ever cross him.

    A cold sweat prickled down her spine, and regret twisted in her gut.

    Had he recognized her already?

    But then she remembered everything Mitchell had done to her, and she straightened her back, her voice firm and unwavering.

    "I''m sure."

    Even if it meant walking straight into the lion''s den, she wasn''t afraid anymore.

    She wanted Mitchell to see that she didn''t need him-that she could move on.

    Worried he wouldn''t take her seriously, Effie snuck a nce at Lyman, then drew another deep breath.

    "I mean it. I''m not joking."

    "Why?" Lyman''s gaze was searching. "You seem like you already have a

    boyfriend. Or am I just your backup n?" He remembered seeing her at the g with another man.

 Chapter 3

    Effie''s eyes widened in shock, and she rushed to exin herself.

    "No, it''s not what you think. I never saw it that way. Things between Mitchell and me have really fallen apart, and my grandma''s getting older-she''s always hoped I''d settle down soon. That''s the only reason I want to get married."-

    Use Lyman as a backup n? She wasn''t crazy.

    Lyman''s expression remained unreadable, giving nothing away.

    "You''re really willing to leave him?" he asked, voice cool.

    She scoffed, a flicker of disdain in her eyes. "What''s there to miss about a guy who can''t stop cheating?" The sting of being humiliated in that private room still lingered, but it had also snapped her awake. After what Mitchell said, she was donepletely done.

    Lyman''s eyes glimmered with something bright as his brows arched, a hint of a smirk tugging at his lips.

    He half-closed his eyes, lifting his chin ever so slightly, his voice low and rough as if straining with restraint. "You''re sure about this?"

    Tears shimmered in her eyes, but her words were steady. "I''m sure. I''m done with trash."

    Suddenly, Lyman pulled her into his arms, leaning in so close his breath was hot against her sensitive ear. "You''re the one who came to me first," he murmured, voice smoldering. "No backing out now."

    Effie''s cheeks burned, her heart pounding. For a moment, she couldn''t speak. Finally,shes trembling, she looked up at him. "I won''t regret it."

    She''d already thrown caution to the wind.

    "Alright. Tomorrow, we get the marriage license." Lyman didn''t leave her any room to reconsider.

    Effie stared at him, caught off guard. "That soon?"

    "Why? Is there a problem?"

    "No, no problem. I just... Could you take me home? I need to grab my documents."

    Soon after, Lyman dropped her off at her ce.

    Effie lived with her grandmother now. After her father, Shepard Bagnold, abandoned her and her mom to move in with his mistress Vera, everything had changed. Vera''s daughter had even taken a new name-Suzan Bagnold.

    Effie''s mother, Adriana Spencer, had been shattered by the betrayal. She lost her grip on reality and, not long after, died in a car ident. The pain of that loss haunted Effie, cutting deeper than any wound.

    She med Shepard for it all¡ªher mother''s death, her own broken childhood. She knew she''d never forgive him.

    Suzan was three years younger, fresh out of college, and, by coincidence or fate, hadnded a job at Mitchell''spany, E&M Group. At the recent holiday party, Suzan performed a solo dance that wowed everyone-and, apparently, caught Mitchell''s eye.

    E&M Group was a rising star in the jewelry business, earning a name for itself in just a few years. Maybe that''s why Suzan wanted in.

    Effie worked at E&M too, but strictly on the design team. She rarely crossed paths with Mitchell, let alone paid attention to new hires. She only learned Suzan had joined at thepany party.

    Not that it mattered anymore-Effie had already drawn a firm line between herself and the Bagnolds.

    Still, she never expected Mitchell to stoop so low.

    Effie had poured her soul into winning the Lloyd family''s approval, working twice as hard as anyone else, but it was all for nothing in the end.

    She''d always had a talent for design. Years ago, she''d even taken home the gold at the national jewelrypetition. She and Mitchell had started E&M Group together, dreaming up thepany''s name as partners. Now, thinking back, it all felt painfully ironic.

    "We''re here," Lyman''s deep, velvet voice cut through her thoughts. "It''ste-I won''t disturb your grandmother tonight. I''ll find another time to visit."

    Effie blinked, shaken from her reverie, and nodded. "Okay."

    "Get some rest. Tomorrow morning, I''ll send someone to pick you up for the courthouse," Lyman added.

    "Alright," Effie replied, her voice soft and obedient.

    It wasn''t until Lyman''s luxury car disappeared down the street that she finally made her way inside, feeling as if she''d stepped into someone else''s dream.

    Tiptoeing into the house, she found her grandmother already fast asleep.

    She checked her phone and saw a flurry of missed calls-some from Mitchell, but more from her best friend Nita.

    She and Nita went way back-they''d been college roommates, confidantes, sisters in everything but blood. Nita knew her better than anyone, and now worked as a sales manager, driven and relentless as ever.

 Chapter 4

    Effie called her back almost immediately.

    As soon as the call connected, Nita''s anxious voice came through. "Effie, are you okay? Why didn''t you answer earlier? Where are you?"-

    "I''m fine, don''t worry. I''m at home," Effie replied, trying to sound as casual as possible.

    "That''s a relief. By the way, is everything alright between you and Mitchell? He just called me, soundingpletely frantic, saying he couldn''t find you." Nita''s tone wasced with suspicion.

    Effie hesitated for a moment, then decided there was no point hiding the truth- Nita would find out sooner orter anyway. "Um... I need to tell you something, but you have to promise not to freak out."

    There was a beat of silence on Nita''s end, and then she replied, a hint of dread in her voice, "Okay, shoot. What happened?"

    "I broke up with Mitchell. We''re done, and he''s got nothing to do with me

    anymore. Oh, and he''s with Suzan now." Effie said it calmly, finally able to face the situation without flinching.

    "What? Did you just say that jerk Mitchell is with that witch Suzan?" Nita''s voice shot up an octave.

    Effie had to pull the phone a little away from her ear.

    Nita exploded, her words firing off rapid-fire, machine-gun style.

    "That backstabbing witch! Seriously, are men so scarce that she has to go after her own so-called brother-inw?"

    "And Mitchell, what a dog! Even rabbits know better than to mess in their own burrow! He knew perfectly well you and Suzan hated each other, and he still went for her?"

    "I knew the moment Suzan started working at E&M Group that she was up to something..."

    "Babe, take it easy..." Effie couldn''t help butugh, though her heart swelled with gratitude for having such a fiercely loyal friend. The knot in her chest eased a little.

    "So what now? Are you really going to let those two walk away unscathed? Effie,e on you were the undisputed queen of our college! You could have any guy you wanted, and you wasted it on Mitchell-who, let''s be honest, is all looks and no substance. Not to mention, you practically built his career for him. And now he repays you like this?"

    "And don''t even get me started on that bitch Suzan. Wasn''t she always trying to y the innocent little angel? You should tear off her mask and let everyone see her for what she really is¡ªa man-stealing vixen, just like her mother!"

    "And what, let everyone know I couldn''t keep my own boyfriend in check?" Effie sighed. "Honestly, I''ve made peace with it."

    "That''s letting them off way too easy!" Nita fumed.

    "Oh, don''t worry. They tried to y me, but I''m not letting them get away with it. Besides, when one chapter ends, it just means a new one''s about to begin."

    Effie''s mind drifted to the uing jewelry designpetition. Suzan was clearly itching to shine, and now it all made sense-Mitchell had been dropping hints about it the past few days. He probably wanted to turn his new girlfriend into the next big thing.

    Winning thatpetition was the fastest way to get noticed, after all.

    Tonight''s revtions were enough drama for anyone.

    And as for her own engagement to Lyman, well, that was one bombshell she wasn''t ready to drop on Nita just yet.

    "So, what''s your next move?" Nita pressed.

    "I''m going to make sure they get what they deserve-and then I''m leaving thepany for good," Effie replied, already nning her escape from this mess.

    "Good. I support you, no matter what. If you need anything, you know where to find me!" Nita said firmly.

    It was true-back in college, Effie had been a force of nature: gorgeous, brilliant, always at the top of her ss, winning everypetition she entered. She could have conquered the world, as long as she didn''t get blinded by love.

    "I''ll be alright, trust me." Effie''s voice was thoughtful, but steady.

    After hanging up, she switched off her phone, cutting off any chance of Mitchell reaching her.

    Starting tomorrow, she was done wasting another second on a guy like him.

 Chapter 5

    The next morning, as if afraid Effie might change her mind, Lyman showed up at her door bright and early to take her to the courthouse.

    Because he was Lyman, the whole process was a breeze. They skipped the lines, whisked straight through-no waiting, no hassle.

    As they signed the marriage papers, the clerk couldn''t help but tease them, saying they made a striking couple.

    Effie felt a little embarrassed. Just moments ago, as they posed for their photo, she thought¡ªmaybe it was just her imagination¡ªthat she caught the hint of a smile on Lyman''s face.

    Half an hourter, they stepped out into the sunlight, marriage certificates in hand. Effie still felt as if she were in a daze.

    She was someone''s wife now.

    Before she could process it, Lyman slipped a silver ring from his own pinky and slid it onto her ring finger.

    Effie froze, examining the band. The pattern etched into it was unique-something she''d never seen before.

    She was a jewelry designer herself, well-versed in precious metals and stones, but she couldn''t even identify what this ring was made of. It looked almost like a symbol of what, she couldn''t say.

    "This... must be expensive, right?" she asked hesitantly.

    "It''s nothing. Wear this for now. I''ll have a pair of wedding rings custom-made soon," Lyman replied, his tone casual.

    Effie opened her mouth to protest, but in the end, just nodded. "Alright."

    This man was possessivemanding, even. Refusal wasn''t really an option.

    He seemed satisfied. "Good. Come on, let''s go. Want me to drive you home? Or to the office?"

    At that moment, Effie''s phone rang. She nced at the screen, pausing for a beat before picking up.

    "Hello?"

    "Effie, where are you?" Mitchell''s voice was urgent, almost frantic.

    "I''m out," she replied, her tone calm and detached at the sound of his voice.

    "What? You''re not back at the office yet? There''s an important meeting today¡ª about thepetition. Did you forget?" Mitchell''s voice rose in frustration.

    "I''m taking the day off, Mr. Lloyd," Effie said, her voice cool.

    "Effie, is something wrong? Is this aboutst night? You know they were just joking around¡ªhad one too many drinks." Mitchell sounded defensive, as if the whole thing had been harmless fun.

    "Whether it was a joke or not, I don''t care anymore. By the way, I''m off today because I''m getting married,¡± Effie replied, a hint of irony curling her lips.

    "Are you serious? Effie, who are you marrying? Is this some kind of ultimatum?" Mitchell''s reaction was instant-disbelief and suspicion twisting his words.

    Effie almostughed aloud.

    An ultimatum? So that''s how he saw her.

    Maybe her heart had already gone numb, because his words didn''t even sting anymore.

    "Rx. The groom isn''t you. I''ll be at the office this afternoon," she said, then hung up.

    Afterwards, aplicated expression flickered across her face.

    Lyman nced over. "Mitchell?"

    Effie nodded softly.

    Lyman''s brow furrowed, his expression suddenly darkening. "I hope you''ll keep your distance from him from now on."

    Effie met his gaze, calm and steady. "I know. I will. But we just got married. I''m still adjusting. Could we not make it public right away?"

    She needed a little time to get her life in order.

    Lyman paused. "Alright, take your time. But remember, since you chose to marry me, I expect you to be my wife in every sense. I don''t need a wife in name only."

    Effie flushed bright red.

    His words were intimate, almost suggestive, but he delivered them as casually as if discussing the weather. Effie bit her lip. "I understand. Just give me three days- I want to tell my grandmother first."

 Chapter 6

    She had already considered intimate life when choosing Lyman as her husband.

    Effie wasn''t the type to be overly dramatic, nor did she cling to old-fashioned ideas about marriage.

    Still, they''d only just met-there was so much more to learn about each other.

    Lyman nced at her, noting her bashful expression, and a subtle smile flickered at the corner of his mouth.

    Remembering the phone call from earlier, he asked, "Do you need my help?"

    "You... don''t have to. I can handle this myself. Just give me a little time, please. Don''t worry I''ll make it clear to Mitchell that we''re done." Effie hurried to reassure him.

    Lyman was a bit surprised. Wasn''t itmon for women to want their husbands to step in on their behalf?

    "Alright. In three days, I''ll have my assistant pick you up. Pack your things, and when you''re ready, you can take me to meet your grandmother."

    "Okay." Effie nodded, feeling a wave of gratitude.

    They''d only just met and already married, yet he was considerate enough to put her grandmother first.

    Effie found herselfparing him to Mitchell. She and Mitchell had dated for years, but he''d visited her grandmother only a handful of times¡ªand even then, he was always impatient to leave.

    Looking back with rity, Effie realized how blind she''d been to so many things.

    But maybe it was for the best. At least now she saw Mitchell''s true colors and could finally let go.

    "If you need anything, just call me. For now, I''ll take you home," Lyman said, his tall frame steady as he gently guided Effie toward the luxury car.

    Effie tensed for a moment, but reminded herself that she was married now-she''d have to get used to it.

    Life is unpredictable.

    Who would have thought that just yesterday she was Mitchell''s girlfriend, and today she was Lyman''s wife?

    Yet Effie felt no regret. This was the best choice for her.

    Once she got home, Effie tucked away her identification documents.

    But what about the marriage certificate?

    Both copies had been taken by Lyman. His reason was almost ridiculous-he was worried she might misce them.

    So he''d locked them up in his safe.

    Effie couldn''t help but roll her eyes.

    But it didn''t really matter. It wasn''t like she needed them for anything right now.

    Her grandmother was already in the kitchen, making dinner.

    Effie went in to help.

    Despite her age, her grandmother moved nimbly around the kitchen.

    As she sorted the vegetables, she asked, "Effie, why didn''t you go to work today? If Mitchell has time, invite him over for dinner. I''ll make something special for him."

    Effie hesitated, then came up with a quick excuse. "I had something to do this morning, so I''ll head to the officeter. Mitchell''s been really busytely, so he probably won''t make it."

    Her grandmother looked a little disappointed. "Alright. Mitchell''s working so hard- you need to be understanding. When you get married, you''ll have to learn topromise."

    She continued to fuss over Effie, who stayed silent.

    Understanding? Compromise?

    Shouldn''t that go both ways?

    But Mitchell had never really done his part, had he?

    Not that it mattered anymore. She didn''t need to worry about that in the future.

    That afternoon, Effie headed straight to the office. She was ready to discusspany business with Mitchell.

    When they''d started thepany, she''d taken a 40% stake.

    Mitchell, determined to prove himself and refusing any help from his family, hadunched E&M Jewelry with her.

    At first, it was just a handful of people; now, thepany had grown to over a hundred employees and made a name for itself in the industry.

    With a strong design team in ce, Effie served as both the creative director and lead designer.

    Every collection she released became an instant hit, fueling thepany''s rapid growth over the past two years.

    But Mitchell seemed blind to all this, convinced their sess was solely due to his management skills.

    His arrogance only grew, and now even the Lloyd family regarded him with newfound respect.

    But soon, everything was about to change.

 Chapter 7

    Effie walked straight to Mitchell''s office. Just as she was about to knock, she noticed the door was slightly ajar, leaving a narrow gap.

    Through the crack, she caught sight of Suzan curled up in Mitchell''s arms, her voice soft and sulky. "Darling, do you love me more, or do you love Effie more?"

    Mitchell held her close, nting a kiss on her cheek. "Of course I love you, you little bitch. But we have to be careful at work-Effie''s here, too."

    "Hmph, you always say that, but you''re still so polite to her. You just don''t love me enough!" Suzan pouted, her toneced with grievance and resentment.

    Mitchell quickly patted her back, trying to soothe her. "Silly, you''re the one I love most. Effie''s one of thepany''s founders and still owns a good chunk of shares. We need her designs for now. But once the time is right, I''ll handle her. Trust me, you''re the only one in my heart."

    Suzan''s expression finally softened, a faint smile tugging at her lips, but she pressed on, unwilling to let it go. "Mitchell, can I use Effie''s new design sketches for thepetition? I just want to help you win."

    Mitchell''s eyes flickered with calction as he smiled. "Soon. Once this jewelry design contest is over, I''ll find a reason to push her out of management. Then thepany will be ours."

    Only then did Suzan nod in satisfaction, her tone yful yet insistent. "That''s better. But you''d better keep your promise and not get soft when the timees." Mitchell pinched her nose with a grin. ¡°When have I ever lied to you?"

    Outside the door, Effie listened, her heart turning to ice.

    She hadn''t expected that Mitchell was not only involved with Suzan, but that the two of them were plotting to force her out of thepany.

    Effie clenched her fists so tightly that her nails dug into her palms, but she felt no pain-only numbness.

    She drew a slow, steadying breath, forcing herself to stayposed.

    Effie quietly stepped away from the door and turned down the hall.

    Back in her own office, she sank into her chair, thoughts racing.

    Her gaze fell on the unfinished design sketch lying on her desk. A new idea began to take shape in her mind.

    Mitchell, realizing Effie had arrived, soon entered her office as well.

    He found her sitting at her desk, calm and collected, which made his brow furrow with unease.

    He walked over, leaning forward with both hands on her desk, his tone soft as he tried to smooth things over.

    "Effie, I''ve already told you, I only think of Suzan as a younger sister. Last night, they were just joking around."

    Effie looked up at him, her eyes cool and steady, a faint, almost imperceptible smile on her lips-one that never touched her eyes.

    "Mitchell, I was clear yesterday. We''re done. As for my shares, I''ll be selling them. From now on, we have nothing to do with each other."

    Mitchell''s face stiffened. "Effie, you''ve got it all wrong. If you don''t believe me, I can have Suzan exin it to you herself."

    "No need." Effie cut him off, her voice frosty. "Mitchell, we''re not children. Some things are better left unsaid. As for whatever''s going on between you and Suzan, I couldn''t care less."

    Mitchell''s expression darkened. He fixed her with a warning re. "Effie, what''s that supposed to mean? Are you really going to let a minor issue ruin what we have?"

 Chapter 8

    "A minor issue?" Effie let out a soft, mirthlessugh, her eyesced with sarcasm. "Mitchell, you really think this is nothing? Or do you think I''m just someone you can brush off whenever you please?"

    Mitchell''s brow furrowed, his tone turning cold and clipped. "Effie, don''t push your luck. I''ll let this go-just this once. Don''t let it happen again."

    Effie rose from her seat, meeting his gaze with calm determination. "Mitchell, I''m dead serious."

    The tension between them thickened in an instant; it was as if the air itself could catch fire.

    Mitchell''s fists clenched at his sides, but after a moment, he let out a bitter chuckle and strode toward the door.

    "Effie, I hope you think this through."

    He tossed the words over his shoulder and left the office without looking back.

    The door mmed shut behind him. Effie stood silently for a moment, drawing a deep breath, forcing herself to steady the turmoil inside.

    Then, without missing a beat, she turned her attention to her work. Soon she''d hand everything over, sell her shares, and finally cut the toxic ties for good.

    Etheridge Manor

    A limited-edition Maybach glided up the old cobblestone drive, its sleek, modern lines a stark contrast to the stately brickwork of the historic estate. The car came to a smooth stop in the center of the courtyard.

    The door opened. A pair of polished leather shoes hit the ground, and Lyman, with his impossibly long legs, strode into the foyer.

    Inside, Lindy Etheridge was watching TV. At the sound of footsteps, she looked up, her face lighting up as she called out in her usual exuberant tone.

    "Well, look who finally decided toe home! So, did you finish looking through all those photos I sent you?"

    66

    Lyman crossed the room, his sharp features softening just a little with resignation. "Mom, that''s actually what I wanted to ask you about. Why were there pictures of men in that matchmaking album?"

    Lindy rolled her eyes, sounding exasperated. "What, I was just giving you more options! Who knows, maybe you''d prefer a nice young man. I don''t care who you bring home-man, woman, cat, or dog-just give me a daughter-inw already."

    Lyman''s lips twitched, torn between amusement and frustration. "Mom, I assure you, I''m perfectly straight. Can you please stop with all this matchmaking? Am I really such a lost cause?"

    Lindy waved a dismissive hand, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Oh, don''t be so uptight! It''s the twenty-first century-boy, girl, it''s all the same. Love is love, you know."

    Lyman pinched the bridge of his nose and tugged at his navy-blue tie. "Mom, you don''t have to worry. I''ve already found someone for you to meet your future daughter-inw."

    Lindy shot him a look of pure disbelief. ¡°Yeah, sure. If you''re so confident, why don''t you bring her home then?"

    "In three days."

    "Excuse me?" Lindy blinked, thinking she must''ve misheard. "You''re serious?" "Absolutely," Lyman said, nodding before heading upstairs.

    A split secondter, Lindy shot up from the couch, shouting up the stairs in a panic, "Lyman! This is huge! My son''s actually found himself a girlfriend!"

    Lyman just paused, rubbing at his forehead, exasperated.

    Meanwhile, Effie returned home from the office and had dinner with her grandmother. Now, she was packing her suitcase, still racking her brain for the right way to break the news-how was she supposed to tell her grandmother she was getting married to someone entirely new?

    What a headache.

    Just then, her phone buzzed with a text message...

 Chapter 9

    Effie nced at her phone. The message was from Suzan.

    A frown creased Effie''s brow before she could stop herself.

    She tapped open the chat. It was a photo.

    The image showed a torn-up charm-shredded into jagged scraps.

    Effie stared at the screen, her frown deepening. She knew this charm well. Two years ago, she''d made a pilgrimage to St. Mary''s Abbey herself to get it. Back then, she''d bought into the monastery''s legends, so determined to prove her devotion that she climbed all 999 steps to the summit, knelt at the altar, and prayed with fervor. She''d scraped her knees raw that day in the biting wind, but her heart had brimmed with hope.

    She''d just wanted this charm to protect her beloved-to keep him healthy and safe.

    Mitchell had found out and been moved almost to tears. He''d swung her around in a joyful hug: ¡°Effie, I''m the luckiest man in the world."

    Now the charm was nothing but a heap of torn paper, as ruined as their love.

    Looking back, it felt like some sort of cruel joke.

    Suzan''s next message blinked on screen, thick with mockery.

    "Oh, sorry, Effie! Mitchell wanted me to stay safe and healthy, so he gave me this charm. You remember it, right? The one you worked so hard to get? Oops, I identally tore it up. Hope you don''t mind?"

    "I do feel a little guilty... but Mitchell said it''s just a cheap old charm. If it''s ruined, who cares?"

    Suzan was gloating. So long as Effie was hurting, Suzan was happy.

    Effie stared at the shredded charm for a moment, then typed back: "You''re right- it''s just a mass-produced trinket, a dor each. If you like them, I can send you a whole box. But you know, for people with a guilty conscience, even a lucky charm might not bring much luck."

    Suzan''s temper red instantly. Was Effie taking a jab at her?

    Damn it!

    Just wait-she''d make Effie suffer. With Effie''s parents gone, she was like an orphan; if Suzan managed to steal her fianc¨¦ too, Effie might not even find the will to go on.

    The thought made Suzan smile with satisfaction.

    But Effie found herself strangely unmoved. In fact, she was starting to look forward to her new life.

    She twisted the ring on her finger, her mind wandering. What was Lyman doing right now?

    She barely knew him, yet they were getting married. Was she reckless? Maybe. But she didn''t regret it.

    Without thinking, Effie opened Lyman''s chat window.

    She clicked on his profile picture, surprised to see a photo of a cappino topped with intricatette art. The delicate design was warm and inviting¡ªso at odds with Lyman''s usually cool demeanor.

    Did he like coffee art?

    Something about the image felt oddly familiar, tugging at a distant memory, but she couldn''t quite ce it.

    As Effie was lost in thought, a new message popped up.

    From Lyman.

    "Are you still awake?"

    Effie replied quickly: Just about to go to bed.

    "Okay. Well, by the way, my parents really want to meet you." His wordsnded like a bomb, making her heart pound.

    She reminded herself: every bride has to meet the inws sometime. Forcing

    herself to sound calm, she replied, "Sure, just tell me when."

    He seemed pleased. "Alright. Get some rest. Good night."

    "Good night!" Effie closed the chat, still feeling her pulse race.

    Effie, you''re hopeless, she scolded herself.

    This was all just a convenient arrangement-both she and Lyman were only doing this to appease their families.

 Chapter 10

    The next day at noon, Nita invited Effie to lunch at Elliott''s Cozy Room, worried that Effie might not be coping well.

    Elliott''s Cozy Room was nestled in a bustling part of downtown, prime real estate surrounded by lush gardens¡ªa peaceful oasis in the middle of the city''s chaos.

    Halfway through the meal, Effie excused herself to the restroom, only to unexpectedly find Suzan standing in front of the mirror, touching up her makeup.

    Suzan was dressed in a flowing Valentino dress, her makeup wless, every inch a picture of delicate charm and innocent beauty.

    Catching Effie''s reflection in the mirror, Suzan pressed her red lips together, then smiled slyly. "What a coincidence, Effie!"

    Effie hadn''t expected to run into her nemesis here of all ces. Just her luck. Suzan was like a stubborn stain-impossible to get rid of no matter where she went.

    When Effie said nothing, Suzan shed a challenging grin.

    "I''m here with Mitchell, actually. He''s in one of the private rooms. Want to join us?"

    Effie''s voice was cool. "No thanks. I''d rather not lose my appetite."

    "Are you still upset with me? I''m sorry, you know, Mitchell and I..." Suzan pretended to look remorseful, ying her part perfectly.

    But Effie saw right through her act and refused to back down. "I''m not upset with you. In fact, I should thank you. If you like picking up someone else''s trash, Mitchell''s all yours. I don''t care. We''re done. I hope you two stick together- forever."

    Suzan''s eyes narrowed. "Come on, Effie. I know you''re crazy about Mitchell, but love doesn''t follow any order. Didn''t your mother ever teach you that?"

    She kept pushing, clearly trying to get under Effie''s skin.

    But the mention of her mother made Effie''s blood boil. Without thinking, she strode forward and pped Suzan hard across the face.

    "You steal my fianc¨¦ and then have the nerve to unt it? Tell me, don''t you deserve this?"

    Effie''s voice trembled with anger. "Or maybe you''re just following in your mother''s footsteps¡ªchasing after other people''s men. Is that your thing? Are you really that shameless?"

    "Effie, you..." Suzan looked stunned, clutching her cheek in disbelief. The smug smile vanished, leaving her face blotchy and humiliated.

    Effie had no interest in arguing further and turned to leave.

    But suddenly, Suzan grabbed her arm, her eyes filling with tears as she put on her best wounded act. "Effie, I''m sorry! I didn''t mean for any of this to happen. You''ve got it all wrong! There''s nothing between me and Mitchell, please don''t be angry."

    Effie froze at the sudden shift-was Suzan possessed or something? A minute ago she was gloating, now she was acting like some helpless victim.

    Suzan''s grip hurt, so Effie yanked her arm free.

    Suzan copsed to the floor in a heap, letting out a dramatic cry as if she were made of porcin.

    Effie stood there for a second, dumbfounded. Was Suzan made of paper? How could she be so fragile?

    But when Effie saw a familiar figure rushing in, she couldn''t help but smirk.

    So this was Suzan''s little performance.

    Of course. Why was she not surprised?

    Honestly, it was a shame Suzan wasn''t in show business-her acting was Oscar- worthy.

    "Effie, what did you do to Suzan?" A cold voice cut through the air.

 Chapter 11

    Effie stood there, cold and unyielding, watching as Mitchell helped Suzan up off the floor. Suzan practically melted into his arms, leaning against him as if she had no strength left to stand on her own.

    "I''m fine, Mitchell," Suzan said in a small, trembling voice. "Really, I just tripped. It wasn''t my sister''s fault, but she seemed really upset. I think she misunderstood. And... I broke her lucky charm, so she''s angry at me, too..."

    Effie observed the scene, the corners of her mouth curling into a mocking smile. Suzan''s performance was as wless as ever-so delicate and pitiful that anyone watching would feelpelled to pity her.

    Mitchell nced down at Suzan, concern flickering in his eyes. Suddenly, his expression hardened. "What happened to your face?" he demanded.

    "Mitchell, please don''t me my sister..." Suzan''s meaning was clear, even if she didn''t spell it out.

    The light above cast shadows across Mitchell''s face, making the sharp lines of his features stand out even more. The y of light and shadow made Effie feel momentarily dizzy, as if the whole scene were a dream.

    Then Mitchell''s voice rang out, strong andmanding, leaving no room for argument. "Effie, apologize to Suzan now. No matter what, you can''t just hit someone."

    Effie let out a coldugh, her gaze as sharp as a de as she looked at Mitchell and Suzan. "Apologize? And why should I?"

    Mitchell''s frown deepened, his tone growing colder. "Effie, what''s happened to you? I''m really disappointed. I''ll say it onest time-apologize to Suzan."

    "Apologize?" Effie scoffed, her eyes shing with icy defiance. "Mitchell, let me make this clear-I will never apologize. Not even if it kills me."

    Her unwavering tone pushed Mitchell over the edge. Without thinking, he raised his hand and pped her across the face.

    Effie stared at him in shock, unable to believe what had just happened. She pressed her hand to her burning cheek, her fingers trembling. The disbelief in her eyes quickly hardened into a cold, simmering hatred.

    She slowly lifted her head, her re cutting into Mitchell. When she finally spoke, her voice was hoarse and icy. "Mitchell, with that p, we''re even."

    Mitchell''s hand hung awkwardly in the air, his palm stinging. He stared at the red mark blooming on Effie''s cheek, and a wave of regret and panic washed over him. ¡°Effie, I... I didn''t mean to... If you''d just apologized, I wouldn''t have done it..."

    "You know I''ve never hit a woman before. All these years together, I''ve never evenid a finger on you. But you shouldn''t have hit Suzan-it wasn''t her fault."

    It was the first time Effie had ever heard Mitchell say so much at once. Not that it mattered anymore. Whatever they''d been before, after tonight they''d be nothing to each other.

    Effie straightened her back, her face pale, her eyes red-rimmed. "Mitchell, we''re done."

    With that, she turned to leave.

    Mitchell''s heart clenched as he instinctively reached out to stop her. "Effie, don''t do this..."

    Effie jerked her arm free and red at him. "Don''t touch me."

    Mitchell''s hand hung helplessly in the air, his eyes clouded with confusion and regret as he watched Effie''s retreating figure. For the first time, panic prickled in his chest. Maybe this really was the end.

    Suzan stood quietly to the side, watching the standoff unfold. A flicker of satisfaction shed in her eyes, but she quickly masked it with a look of concern.

    She tugged gently on Mitchell''s sleeve, her voice soft and fragile. "Mitchell, please don''t me my sister. She was just too upset, that''s all...¡±

    Mitchell nodded absently, a hint of confidence returning to his voice. "Maybe I''ve spoiled her too much. Give it a couple of days-she''lle back and apologize. When she does, I''ll make sure she apologizes properly to you."

    Sure enough, he thought, women just get worse the more you indulge them.

 Chapter 12

    A short whileter, Mitchell left as well, Suzan on his arm.

    Suzan''s smile was irrepressible, even for herself. When it came to Mitchell, she was determined to win him-no matter what.

    Effie returned from the restroom, only to find a new bank notification on her phone.

    The string of zeros left her stunned.

    She hadn''t even had time to register the full amount before her phone started

    ringing.

    Seeing the caller ID, Effie''s heart skipped a beat.

    She took a moment topose herself before answering.

    "Mrs. Etheridge, did you get the money?" The deep, smooth voice on the line sent a shiver down her spine.

    The sound of "Mrs. Etheridge" startled her so much, she thought her heart might leap right out of her chest.

    ¡°I¡ªI got it, but I have enough money of my own. I don''t need this," Effie stammered, trying to steady her voice.

    "Your money is still yours. But from now on, you''re Mrs. Etheridge. That means my money is yours too. And, of course, so am I." Lyman''s tone was yful, a teasing warmth she''d never expected from someone as famously aloof as him.

    Effie could feel the heat rising in her cheeks. She could hardly imagine someone as cold and reserved as Lyman saying something so cheeky.

    It was apletely different feeling from the sting of Mitchell''s p earlier.

    Now, Effie felt a rush of warmth, a sense that she truly mattered to someone. "Alright," she replied softly.

    "In a few days, you''ll be meeting my family. If there''s anything you want to buy, go ahead and get it. Don''t worry about the price," Lyman added, as thoughtful as ever, covering even the smallest details.

    "Okay, I understand."

    After hanging up, Effie was left with a lingering sense of unreality.

    Still, Lyman''s reminder brought her back to the present-she really was about to meet his family.

    She needed to prepare a gift.

    Tucking her phone away, Effie headed back to the restaurant''s main hall.

    After dinner, she nned to go shopping with Nita.

    When Effie returned, Nita looked up with a puzzled frown. "What took you so long? I was about to go looking for you. Wait-what happened to your face?"

    Effie tried to sound casual. "It''s nothing. I just ran into Mitchell and Suzan. Got held up a bit."

    Nita jumped up, bristling with indignation. "What? Those two jerks showed up here? Did they hit you? Where are they? I''ll go give them a piece of my mind!"

    "They''ve probably left by now. Don''t worry, I pped Suzan back-I''m not letting them get the upper hand."

    Nita sat down, still fuming. "Ugh! Next time I see those two, I swear I''ll tear them to shreds. Absolute garbage, both of them."

    "Don''t let them ruin your appetite. Eat up. Afterwards,e with me to the mall-I need to buy a gift," Effie said.

    "Of course! I''d go anywhere for you," Nita replied, instantly shaking off her anger and digging into her food.

    After they finished dinner, the two friends headed to the most luxurious shopping center nearby.

    Effie and Nita stepped into the mall, its dazzling lights reflecting off rows of glittering disys, casting everything in a haze of opulence.

    Nita looped her arm through Effie''s, her excitement infectious. "So, Effie, what are

    we shopping for today? Clothes? A new bag? Jewelry?"

    Effie smiled, her gaze drifting over the various boutiques. "Let''s just look around first."

    She pondered what sort of gift would be best.

    After all, the Etheridge family was the most prominent in Neo-Arcadia. There was nothing they didn''t already have.

    Her gift had to be thoughtful, something chosen with care. But it couldn''t be too extravagant, or she''d risk making the wrong impression with Lyman''s parents. And so, the two of them began to browse.

    What Effie didn''t know was that luck wasn''t on her side today. She''d barely stepped out the door before trouble started following her-one thing after another...

 Chapter 13

    Effie and Nita stepped into BV, an Italian fashion house renowned for its timeless style. Inside, everything exuded understated elegance-the brand''s silk scarves were especially famous, crafted with meticulous attention to fabric and detail, featuring floral patterns perfect for sophisticated women who preferred luxury without the sh.

    Effie''s eyes lingered on a scarf disyed in the window. Instantly, she thought it would make a wonderful gift-refined and luxurious, but never ostentatious.

    Without hesitation, Effie pointed to the very scarf she''d been admiring. "Excuse me," she said to the sales assistant, "could you please wrap up that scarf for me?" The closer she looked, the more she liked it.

    Just as she finished speaking, a sharp voice pierced the air behind her. "I had my eye on that scarf first."

    Effie frowned slightly. That voice... Why did it sound so familiar?

    Turning around, she saw Mitchell''s mother and sister, Mrs. Lloyd and Sigrid, standing at the entrance. Both women were weighed down with designer shopping bags, their posture radiating the kind of superiority thates with old money. They stood there, pointing imperiously at the window disy.

    Effie let out a resigned chuckle. What were the odds? Today must be her unlucky day, bumping into them of all people.

    But she and Mitchell had broken up. There was nothing left to worry about.

    Mrs. Lloyd and her daughter Sigrid had always been the sort to worship wealth and look down on those who didn''t meet their standards. From the moment Effie started dating Mitchell, she''d tried to win Mrs. Lloyd over with luxury cosmetics, expensive handbags, and every kind of health supplement she could think of. Especially in thest couple of years, as her own business flourished, Effie had been even more generous with Sigrid as well, never holding back.

    But no matter how hard she tried, their hearts stayed cold.

    Effie took a deep breath, steadying herself. She turned, wearing a polite smile. "There''s a queue for a reason, isn''t there? Even shopping has rules. Firste, first served."

    When Mrs. Lloyd and Sigrid realized it was Effie, their faces tightened with disapproval.

    Mrs. Lloyd tilted her chin and shot Effie a frosty nce. Her voice dripped with disdain. ¡°Effie? What are you doing here? Shopping again? Don''t you realize how hard Mitchell works for his money? All you do is spend."

    Sigrid curled her lip in open contempt. "Exactly. Effie, are you sure you didn''t walk into the wrong store? These scarves aren''t exactly cheap, you know. Or are you buying it for your mother?"

    She nodded at the scarf-after all, it was a bit mature for Effie''s taste. She''d given her mother plenty of expensive gifts before.

    Mrs. Lloyd hesitated, realizing with a jolt that maybe Effie really was buying the scarf as a gift... possibly even for her.

    Effie almostughed. The audacity-did they really believe the world revolved around them?

    She hid her amusement behind a perfectlyposed smile. "Sorry, this scarf is a gift for an elder, but it''s not for you, Mrs. Lloyd. Mitchell and I have broken up. There''s nothing between us anymore."

    Mrs. Lloyd''s eyes widened. Her voice shot up a notch. "Is that true? Well, thank goodness! You were never right for him. Someone like you could never be good enough for the Lloyd family."

    Sigrid piled on, her tone dripping with mock celebration. "Yes, finally! Don''t think a fancy scarf is going to change who you are. You can''t buy ss, no matter how hard you try."

    Nita, who''d been silently fuming, finally snapped. "Did you eat garbage for breakfast or are you always this foul-mouthed?"

    Sigrid shot her a look of pure disdain. "How vulgar. Birds of a feather, aren''t you? You should check the mirror beforeing into a ce like this."

 Chapter 14

    "Sorry, but I look in the mirror every day. I''ll take this scarf." Effie''s voice was calm as she handed it to the salesgirl to wrap up.

    Mrs. Lloyd''s brow furrowed tightly. So this was Effie''s true colors, wasn''t it?

    Gone was the meek, timid daughter-inw from before. Now, it was as if she''d be apletely different person.

    And as if she wasn''t done making her point, Effie picked out two more dresses before heading to the register.

    Today was a real victory.

    Mrs. Lloyd and Sigrid were left standing there, faces stone-cold, forced to watch as Effie walked out, triumphant and unbothered.

    Staring at Effie''s retreating figure, Mrs. Lloyd''s lips drew into a thin line. Her tone was sharp with disapproval. "That Effie-she''s bing more and more unruly." Sigrid scoffed, an unmistakable sneer in her voice. "Don''t bother with her, Mom. She''s just some penniless woman. No matter how much she pretends, she can''t change where shees from. You should call Mitchell and ask if they''ve really broken up."

    Still fuming, Mrs. Lloyd pulled out her phone and dialed her son.

    As soon as Mitchell picked up, she couldn''t hold back: "Mitchell, have you and Effie split up?"

    Mitchell paused for a second, then answered with obvious irritation, "Who told you that? We just had a misunderstanding. She''lle back eventually."

    Mrs. Lloyd let out a huff. "Oh, you foolish boy! We just saw her splurging at a designer store, actingpletely out of line. If she''s finally willing to walk away, thank goodness. A woman from her kind of background isn''t fit for you. She''s just a fling, Mitchell. Let me introduce you to someone from a proper family."

    A wave of annoyance rose in Mitchell''s chest. "Mom, can you just stay out of this? It''s my business."

    Sure, being with Suzan was exciting, but that didn''t mean he was ready to let Effie go. He''d gotten used to having her around.

    Mrs. Lloyd, hearing her son''s stubbornness, was furious. "You need to end things with her for good. And don''t give her a single share of thepany. A woman like that should leave with nothing."

    After she hung up, Mitchell frowned, unsettled. What exactly was Effie up to?

    Was she trying to get his attention?

    Or was this some kind of maniptive game?

    But deep down, Mitchell felt certain: Effie woulde crawling back to him soon.

    It had happened so many times before-break up, make up, over and over again.

    In the end, Effie always returned. This time wouldn''t be any different.

    She loved him far too much to ever walk away for good.

    When Effie and Nita left the mall, the tension in the air had finally lifted.

    Nita gave Effie a hearty thumbs-up. "Effie, that was amazing! You finally put them

    in their ce. I''ve never been able to stand Adeline or Sigrid."

    Every time they met, those two acted as if the world revolved around them.

    But because Effie cared about Mitchell, she always swallowed her pride and endured it.

    Effie smiled, looping her arm through Nita''s. Her tone was easy. ¡°Honestly, it wasn''t a big deal. I just realized I don''t have to keep sacrificing myself. I used to think that if I tolerated them, things would get better. But now I know-some people just aren''t worth it."

    Nita nodded, eyes shining with approval. "Exactly! You should''ve done this ages ago. Mitchell''s an arrogant jerk, and his snobbish mother and sister think the sun shines out of them. It''s about time someone showed them otherwise."

    Effie let out a softugh, shaking her head. "Forget them. Let''s go grab a coffee- my treat."

    For the first time in a long while, she felt free. She even found herself looking forward to whatever came next with Lyman.

    What would life be like with him?

 Chapter 15

    After parting ways with Nita, Effie headed to a high-end tea shop and picked out a box of premium tea leaves. With the meeting gift ready, she took her time wrapping it herself, making sure every detail reflected her sincerity.

    Still, she felt a flutter of nerves. The Etheridge family was one of the most prominent in Neo-Arcadia, and Mrs. Etheridge kept such a low profile that no stories about her ever made it into public gossip. Effie couldn''t help worrying¡ª what if Mrs. Etheridge turned out to be just like Mrs. Lloyd, always looking down her nose at everyone?

    And then there was Lyman, who''d been wanting to meet her grandmother for ages. Effie figured she should give her grandmother a heads-up first. If she just showed up with someone out of the blue, it might give the poor woman a fright.

    Right now, her grandmother was setting the table, calling out, "Effie, dinner''s ready!"

    "Coming, Grandma." Effie washed her hands and joined her at the table.

    As they ate, her grandmother brought up Mitchell again. "Effie, is everything alright between you and Mitchell? I haven''t seen you two talk much these past few days."

    Effie''s heart fluttered with anxiety, but she mustered her courage. ¡°Grandma... I... Mitchell and I broke up."

    Her grandmother paused, then let out a gentle sigh. "Ah, well. If it wasn''t meant to be, there''s no use forcing it."

    Though age had silvered her hair, Effie''s grandmother was still sharp as ever. She''d seen all the effort Effie poured into that rtionship. If Mitchell had truly cared for Effie, he wouldn''t have treated her so callously. After all these years, he''d hardly ever bothered to visit. But knowing how much her granddaughter liked him, she''d kept her opinions to herself. Maybe this breakup was for the best.

    Effie''s throat tightened and her eyes stung with tears she tried to blink away. "Grandma, I''m sorry for making you worry about me."

    She hadn''t expected her grandmother to be so understanding, and that bittersweet warmth filled her chest.

    Her grandmother reached over and patted her hand, her gaze soft and loving. "Silly girl, what are you apologizing for? I just want to see you happy. That Lloyd boy-I could tell from the start he wasn''t good enough for you. This is a good thing, really. Our Effie deserves so much better."

    Effie lowered her head, and the tears finally spilled over.

    "You''re right, Grandma. I won''t waste another tear on someone who isn''t worth it."

    Her grandmother gently wiped her cheeks, her voice tinged with concern. ¡°There, there, now. Our Effie is too pretty to ruin her face with tears. Eat up-look, I made all your favorites tonight."

    Effie couldn''t help but smile through her tears. "Thank you, Grandma. Actually, there''s something else I wanted to tell you..."

    She hesitated, searching for the words.

    "What is it?" her grandmother asked, curiosity piqued.

    "I... well, I''ve met someone new."

    Her grandmother''s eyes went wide, as if she wasn''t sure she''d heard correctly. "You''ve met someone?"

    Effie nodded. "I have. I really like him¡ªwe just clicked. I want to start fresh, Grandma."

    It was a white lie, but there was something about Lyman that Effie couldn''t quite put into words.

    Her grandmother regained herposure. "Effie, you''re not just getting married on the rebound, are you? That''s not something to take lightly."

    "No, Grandma. I truly like him. He treats me so well. He even asked if he coulde meet you tomorrow. Will you give him a chance?"

    Her grandmother looked a little surprised at how fast things were moving, but she could see the sincerity in Effie''s eyes. "Alright."

    Effie finally rxed, and after dinner, hurried to text Lyman the news.

    Tomorrow was Saturday-perfect for a visit.

    The next day at noon, Lyman arrived, armsden with gifts-prized delicacies, rare dried mushrooms, nourishing herbal tonics, all the traditional things one would bring to honor an elder.

    When he appeared at the door, his dark eyes shone like polished obsidian.

 Chapter 16

    Effie''s heart skipped a beat, racing faster than she could control.

    "Nervous? Give me your hand," Lyman said, noticing the flush in her cheeks and her quickening breath.

    "What?" Effie hesitated, caught off guard.

    She could feel Lyman''s presence-solid, warm, and unmistakably masculine-so close that it left her breathless.

    "Your hand. Come on."

    Almost without thinking, Effie offered her hand. Lyman reached out and took it in his, his grip firm yet gentle. The warmth of his palm seeped into hers, his thumb tracing slow, soothing circles against her skin, sending a tingling sensation up her

    arm.

    Her pulse only quickened, a rosy blush blooming across her face and even creeping to her ears.

    "Lyman, what are you... what are you doing?" she stammered, trying to pull her hand back, but he only tightened his hold.

    He leaned in a little, his gaze steady and intent, lips curling into a faint smile. "Don''t move. I have something for you."

    With that, he reached into his pocket and ced a small piece of candy in her palm.

    Effie blinked, ncing down at it. "This is..."

    "When you''re feeling down or anxious," Lyman said, his eyes sincere and almost intense, "have a piece of candy. It helps, trust me."

    His words were earnest, and for a moment, Effie felt the warmth from his hand travel straight to her heart. Her nerves were in absolute disarray.

    It never even urred to her to wonder why someone like Lyman would carry candy around.

    "Thank you." She curled her fingers around the sweet. "Come in. My grandmother''s waiting for you."

    Lyman followed her inside, arms full of gifts. In the living room, an elderly woman with kind eyes sat on the couch, watching them enter.

    He greeted her politely, "Good evening, ma''am. I''m Lyman-Effie''s partner."

    Grandma looked up, quietly surprised. The man before her was tall, strikingly handsome, and carried himself with a refined air. Compared to Mitchell, he was in a league of his own-and far more respectful.

    "So, you''re the one Effie mentioned?" she asked, still a little skeptical. He was impossibly perfect, but was he truly sincere about Effie?

    Lyman stepped forward and entwined his fingers with Effie''s. "Yes, ma''am. I''ve cared for Effie for a long time. Before, she was with someone else, so I only wished her happiness. But now that he can''t give her the life she deserves, I want to try. I hope you''ll give us your blessing."

    His words hit Effie like a jolt to the chest. She snuck a look at him he was entirely serious.

    If she didn''t know better, she might have believed it herself.

    Grandma studied them both, then nodded slowly. "Lyman, I can tell you''re a good man. If you truly care about Effie, then take care of her. She''s sensitive and easily hurt. Don''t let her down."

    Lyman gave a solemn nod. "You have my word, ma''am. I''ll take care of Effie¡ª she''ll never have to feel alone or neglected."

    Effie stood quietly by, listening to their exchange, her feelings a tangled mess. She nced at Lyman again; he looked so genuine, as if he truly meant every promise. Nervousness warred with an unexpected sense offort.

    Grandma smiled, patting Lyman''s hand. "Alright, I believe you. Now, sit down and rx. I''ll make us a special dinner tonight."

    With that, she headed into the kitchen.

    "Thank you," Effie said softly, knowing her grandmother had epted Lyman.

    He turned to her, his gaze gentle. "You don''t need to thank me. We''re partners. And for the record, I wasn''t just saying that for her benefit. I meant every word."

    His eyes gleamed with quiet affection, and for the first time, Effie felt her heart settle-just a little.

 Chapter 17

    Grandma had weed Lyman into the family, and Effie finally breathed a sigh of relief.

    Once her grandmother learned they were already legally married, she urged Effie to move into Lyman''s house as soon as possible.

    Dowries and wedding ceremonies didn''t matter much to her. All she cared about was that the two of them would be happy together.

    Effie could tell her grandmother was genuinely pleased with Lyman.

    After living for more than half a century, what hadn''t her grandmother seen and understood?

    With that, Effie felt reassured as well.

    But the thought of soon meeting the Etheridge family sent a shiver down her spine.

    Still, having Lyman by her side brought her somefort.

    Lyman had promised her that his family was easygoing and that she had nothing to worry about.

    Effie was determined to make a good impression.

    Sensing her nerves, Lyman suggested they wait until she''d moved in and they''d settled into living together before introducing her to his parents.

    Effie agreed this was a good idea.

    Honestly, she still got nervous just being around Lyman.

    He had a presence that was hard to ignore. He wasn''t overtly imposing, but there was something about him that demanded respect, maybe even a hint of fear.

    After dinner, once Lyman had left, Effie packed her things under her grandmother''s watchful eye, nning to move into Lyman''s ce after work the next day.

    Her grandmother, getting on in years, seemed truly at ease now that Effie had found someone reliable.

    The next morning, Effie finished her breakfast and headed to the office.

    She was there to officially hand over her responsibilities and deal with her shares in thepany.

    If Mitchell refused to buy them back, she''d just sell them off. Either way, she wanted a clean break.

    As soon as she arrived, her assistant rushed over. "Effie, you''re finally here. Mr. Lloyd has been looking for you."

    Effie just nodded coolly. "Alright, I got it."

    She walked into her office, but the moment she sat down, she sensed something was off.

    Herputer had been tampered with.

    Effie was a creature of habit; she could spot the smallest changes in her space.

    A faint smile tugged at her lips as realization dawned.

    She powered on herputer and clicked on the folder containing her designs. Sure enough, it had clearly been essed.

    Her eyes were sharp andposed, but a hint of a smirk yed at the corners of her mouth. She knew Mitchell and Suzan''s scheme was already in motion, and she was quietly leading them straight into her trap.

    Who else, besides Mitchell, even knew herputer password?

    It had always been Mitchell''s birthday-she''d never bothered to change it.

    But Effie had no intention of changing it now. She was baiting the hook, waiting for the fish to bite.

    She knew exactly what they were after: hertestpetition designs.

    Online registration for the contest had already begun. She''d uploaded her entries for the preliminary round; only those who passed would be eligible for the finals.

    Suzan, who also dabbled in jewelry design, was ambitious-desperate to make a name for herself through thispetition.

    But she probably knew she wasn''t truly talented, so she wanted to piggyback off Effie''s skill.

    The easiest way? Entering Effie''s designs under her own name.

    Mitchell knew Effie had already won several gold medals; to her, thesepetitions were second nature.

    So this time, Mitchell had sweet-talked Effie into entering, asking her to draft the designs-then, at thest minute, he''d simply swap Effie''s name for Suzan''s on the submission.

    That way, Suzan would have her shot at fame.

    All Mitchell had to do was keep Effiepliant.

    In his eyes, Effie was as docile as a family pet-easy to manipte, easy to control.

    "Mitchell, do you really think I''m as easy to push around as I used to be?" Effie whispered, a steely glint in her eyes.

 Chapter 18

    Effie quickly pulled out hertest sketches, then opened the contest''s official website. She registered a new ount, uploaded her finished designs along with the concept notes and inspiration, and officially entered thepetition.

    Only after double-checking that everything was submitted correctly did she log

    out.

    All entries were kept strictly confidential until the day of the preliminary round, so no one would see her designs beforehand.

    To be absolutely sure nothing went wrong, Effie installed a tiny surveince camera hidden in the potted nt next to herputer.

    Then she ced her design drafts in in sight on her desk.

    "If you''re all so desperate to get your hands on my work," she murmured with a cold smirk, "then I''ll give you a little surprise." She already had a n in mind.

    With that, she headed off to find Mitchell. It was time for a serious conversation.

    In the manager''s office, the air felt thick and heavy, as if the temperature had just gone up a few degrees.

    Effie paused at the door and knocked gently.

    There was a shuffling noise inside, then Mitchell''s voice came through, a touch frantic. "Come in."

    Effie pushed open the door, her lips curled in a faint smile, though her eyes were icy.

    She immediately spotted Suzan hurriedly straightening herself from Mitchell''sp. Suzan''s cheeks were still flushed, her hair disheveled, blouse askew.

    Mitchell, trying topose himself, fumbled with the buttons on his shirt. His gaze darted about, clearly not expecting Effie''s sudden arrival.

    "Effie, what brings you here?" Mitchell tried for a calm tone, but it came out forced.

    Effie stepped inside, her voice smooth but edged with irony. "Oh, am I interrupting? Wasn''t it you who asked me to stop by?"

    Suzan froze, waving her hands in protest. "No, you''ve got it wrong! Mr. Lloyd and I were just discussing work-really."

    "Is that so?" Effie let out a soft, mockingugh. "Your work meetings seem... unusually hands-on."

    Mitchell''s face darkened. His tone was sharp, almost threatening. "Effie, don''t start. Suzan was just giving me a report. There''s nothing going on."

    Effie crossed to the couch and sat down with effortless grace. "Whatever you two were doing is none of my concern. We''re over. I''m here for something important."

    Mitchell''s brow furrowed, unease flickering across his face though he tried to hide it. "What is it?"

    Effie pulled a document from her bag and set it on the table. ¡°This is my contract termination. I''ve already signed it. Please add your signature."

    She looked directly at him. "Also, since I''m leaving E&M, I don''t want to hold onto my shares. You can buy them at market value¡ªthe current valuation is three hundred million. If you''re not interested, I''ll sell them elsewhere."

    "E&M''s a hotmodity right now. If I put my shares up for sale, I''m sure plenty of investors would jump at the chance."

    Mitchell and Suzan stared at her in shock, exchanging a stunned nce.

    Mitchell suddenly jumped to his feet, his voice rising in panic. "Effie, what are you talking about? Are you out of your mind?"

    Effie just smiled, her tone chilly. "Why? Mitchell, aren''t you the one who should know best?"

    Mitchell''s expression grew hard, his wordsced with warning. "Don''t do anything stupid, Effie. You know what happens if you walk away- you''ll lose everything." Before Effie could reply, her phone rang.

    She nced at the screen, surprised to see the caller ID: "Husband."

 Chapter 19

    Effie suddenly rememberedst night, when Lyman came over for dinner, he''d taken her phone and changed his contact name from "Lyman" to "Husband."

    He''d insisted, with that air of absolute certainty, that since they were married now, there was no reason to keep using his name. "We''re husband and wife. Why keep it formal?¡± he''d said before snatching her phone and making the change himself, leaving her no room to object.

    Now, seeing "Husband" sh across her screen, a rush of warmth spread through her chest. She bit her lip, feeling a smile tug at the corners of her mouth, and answered, her voice softer than she realized. ¡°Hello? Is something up?"

    Lyman''s low, maic voice rumbled on the other end. "Are you at the office? Don''t leave when work''s over-I''lle pick you up. We''ll move together."

    He''d clearly been waiting for this day for a long time.

    A blush crept up Effie''s cheeks. "Alright, I got it," she replied, and quickly ended the call.

    No sooner had she set her phone down than she looked up-only to meet Mitchell''s stormy gaze.

    He stood there, face dark, eyes burning with anger and bitter sarcasm, as if he''d just uncovered some deep, shameful secret.

    "Effie, don''t you think you owe me an exnation? Why did your caller ID say ''Husband''?" Mitchell''s voice was cold, his tone unmistakably usatory.

    Effie frowned, annoyance flickering in her chest, though her face remainedposed. ¡°Mitchell, this is my personal business. I don''t see why I need to report it to you. Or do you make a habit of sticking your nose where it doesn''t belong?"

    Suzan, sensing the tension, hesitated, then tried to ease the situation. "Mitchell, don''t be mad. I''m sure Effie just did that to get a rise out of you. There''s no way she got married so quickly."

    Mitchell''s anger visibly cooled-a flicker of hope returning to his eyes. Of course. Effie loved him. There was no way she''d marry someone else. She must be doing this just to provoke him.

    "If this is your way of ying hard to get, Effie, then congrattions-you''ve seeded. But don''t push your luck." His tone was icy.

    Effie''s reply was calm but edged with frost. "Mitchell, don''t tter yourself. Who I marry is none of your business."

    She ced a folder on the table. "Here''s the contract. I''ll inform the team about my departure. You have three days to decide if I don''t hear from you, I''ll sell my shares elsewhere."

    With that, Effie straightened her back and walked out, leaving the room heavy with tension.

    As soon as she left, Mitchell grabbed the contract and tore it to pieces.

    Damn it!

    Effie seemed utterly impervious now.

    Suzan nced at him, her voice cautious. "Mitchell, do you think she really does know someone else? Maybe that''s why she wants out with so much money. She''s certainly aiming high."

    "She won''t get a cent," Mitchell said darkly. "Not three hundred million-not even a penny. If she wants to leave, she leaves with nothing."

    He''d always thought Effie was clear-headed, but now she just looked greedy, and he realized how wrong he''d been.

    Suzan arched a brow. "Exactly. She''s just too greedy. If she''d asked for a few million, maybe that would''ve been reasonable."

    Mitchell pulled her into his arms. "Suzan, you''re the only one who''s truly pure and kind."

    "Don''t worry, Mitchell. I''ll always be by your side. But now that you''ve upset her, I doubt we''ll ever get her designs," Suzan whispered.

    Mitchell leaned in, lowering his voice. "Rx. We know herputer password. I checked her designs are nearly done. Once she''s gone..."

    Suzan''s eyes lit up. "That''s wonderful. By the way, Mitchell, I bought some new lingerie and nightwear for tonight...in your favorite color-pink." She blushed as she spoke.

    Mitchell grinned, thest of his worries melting away. "You know me too well, sweetheart. I want to see it tonight."

 Chapter 20

    The two of them were instantly wrapped up in each other again.

    ...

    After leaving the general manager''s office, Effie returned to her own and began preparing her handover. There wasn''t much to pass on, honestly. She''d always trusted her team, and everyone did their jobs well. She typed up the necessary notes and instructions, working steadily until the end of the day. When she saw howte it was, she packed up her things¡ªafter all, she needed to clear out her space for someone else.

    Sure enough, not long after Effie left, Suzan slipped quietly into her office,

    ncing around to make sure no one was watching. She hurried to theputer, plugged in her sh drive, and started copying the design files, a triumphant smirk spreading across her face.

    "Effie, you''re still as gullible as ever," Suzan muttered under her breath, a note of mockery in her voice. "I''ll be taking these designs, thank you very much."

    She carefully saved the files to her USB stick, then left the room as quickly as she''de.

    In the shadows down the hall, Effie watched Suzan''s retreating back, a cold, knowing smile curling at her lips.

    Half of her n was already working.

    With that, Effie left the building.

    Meanwhile, Lyman''s car was parked outside, waiting at the curb. From the driver''s seat, he gazed up at the building''s entrance, feeling a strange sense of anticipation. Starting today, Effie would officially be part of his life.

    As night fell, the city lights flickered on, illuminating the streets below.

    Effie stepped out of the building and immediately spotted Lyman''s car. She walked over quickly, opened the door, and slid inside.

    "Sorry to keep you waiting," she said apologetically.

    Lyman turned to her, his eyes softening ever so slightly. "I just got here."

    Effie buckled her seatbelt and said quietly, "Let''s go home."

    Lyman drove her back, and then he and the driver carried her packed bags out to the car.

    He''d originally wanted his grandmother to move in with them, but she refused, insisting she preferred living on her own. Besides, they were newlyweds-it was the perfect time to settle in as a couple. Lyman eventually conceded but resolved to hire a housekeeper to look after his grandmother.

    Afterward, Lyman and Effie headed home together.

    Lyman''s apartment was in Elysian Fields, the most exclusiveplex in the city- prime real estate, elegant surroundings, and tight security.

    "We''re here," he announced as the car pulled to a stop.

    Effie nodded and followed him out. The driver had already unloaded her luggage.

    Noticing how tense she was, Lyman spoke in an easy tone. "You don''t have to be nervous. It''s just the two of us here, plus a cleaningdy whoes in once a day."

    Effie let out a breath, though she couldn''t quite shake her nerves. They were married, yes, but they hadn''t spent much time together yet; suddenly starting life under one roof was a big step. Besides, Lyman''s reputation as the city''s "Ice King" made him seem anything but approachable.

    But after these past few days, Effie was starting to think he wasn''t so bad after all.

    The elevator chimed softly as it reached the top floor. Lyman and Effie stepped out and opened a heavy oak door, revealing a spacious, sunlit living room.

    The d¨¦cor was sleek and modern, all clean lines and a monochrome palette softened by warm, inviting ents. Floor-to-ceiling windows looked out over the glittering city, the skyline like a living painting.

    "Do you like it?" Lyman asked, ncing at her, a hint of anticipation in his voice.

    Effie nodded, her eyes shining with genuine admiration. "It''s wonderful."

    A small smile tugged at Lyman''s lips. "I''m d you like it. From now on, this is our home."

 Chapter 21

    Effie was caught off guard by Lyman''s words, her cheeks quickly blooming with a faint blush.

    His gaze on her just now had been so intense, it set her heart racing.

    "Come on, let me show you around," Lyman said, taking her hand and leading her further inside.

    As they walked, he began to exin, "The house is over three thousand square feet. There''s a primary bedroom, three guest rooms, a study, and two bathrooms..."

    Effie couldn''t help but marvel inwardly. In a city where every inch of space was precious, owning a house this spacious spoke volumes about his wealth and status.

    They stopped at the entrance to the master bedroom. Effie paused, her gaze immediately drawn to the wide king-sized bed dominating the room, and her heart skipped another beat.

    The decor echoed the rest of the house-modern and understated, yet undeniably warm. Soft golden light spilled across the plush bedding, making everything feel especially inviting.

    Lyman stood beside her, noticing her momentary daze. The corners of his mouth curled up in a teasing smile. "What''s wrong? Is there something about the bed?"

    Effie snapped out of her thoughts, her blush deepening. "No, it''s just... it feels a bit too big, that''s all."

    Lyman chuckled, his tone affectionate. "Isn''t bigger better? There''s more room for... whatever you might want to do."

    His voice was low and gentle,ced with a hint of mischief, and Effie''s cheeks burned even brighter.

    She lowered her head, fingers nervously twisting together, feeling both anxious and a little excited.

    Seeing how shy she was, Lyman''s gaze softened. "Effie, are you nervous? Don''t worry. I respect you. We''ll wait until you''re ready."

    Effie gave a quiet "Mm," barely above a whisper.

    Lyman added, with augh, "Just don''t make me wait too long, okay?"

    That only made her blush deepen, her face almost scarlet.

    "Oh, by the way," he continued, changing the subject, "tomorrow we''ll head back

    to my family''s estate for dinner. We can also take the opportunity to discuss the wedding."

    Effie turned to him in surprise. "We''re having a wedding?"

    "Of course. I want to give you a proper ceremony," Lyman replied without hesitation.

    She hesitated. "Actually... there''s no need to rush. Maybe we could wait a bit?" Effie was still tangled up with unresolved issues involving Mitchell, and she worried things might getplicated.

    Lyman paused but nodded, respect in his eyes. "Alright, whatever you want."

    The next morning

    Mitchell''s phone rang early; his family wanted him home.

    Still wrapped up in Suzan''s affection, Mitchell decided to bring her with him.

    Hand in hand, the two walked into the house, looking for all the world like a pair of newlyweds,pletely smitten with each other.

    Mrs. Lloyd greeted them with a warm smile as they entered. "Back already? And who is this?"

    She eyed Suzan with polite curiosity.

    Mitchell, still holding Suzan''s hand, introduced her. "Mom, this is Suzan-Suzan Bagnold, President Bagnold''s daughter."

    Mrs. Lloyd''s eyes lit up with delight.

    President Bagnold''s only daughter! Now that was a match made in heaven.

    Far better than that Effie.

    Ever since Shepard''s affair and Vera''s sudden rise in the family, Effie and her mother had moved out, cutting ties with the Bagnold family entirely.

    As a result, few people realized Effie was also a Bagnold by birth.

    Not that Effie cared to mention it she found the whole thing disgusting.

    Meanwhile, Suzan was practically glowing as she stepped into the Lloyd family''s grand home. The Lloyds were old money, far above the Bagnolds in prestige; to her, this was marrying up.

    Suzan greeted Mrs. Lloyd sweetly, "It''s lovely to meet you, Mrs. Lloyd."

    Mrs. Lloyd''s smile widened, her tone warm and affectionate as she took Suzan''s hand. ¡°Oh, Suzan, is it? What a lovely girl you are-beautiful and charming. Come in, don''t just stand there, make yourself at home!"

 Chapter 22

    Suzan felt a little embarrassed by Mrs. Lloyd''s warm wee, her cheeks tinged with a rosy blush. She nodded politely. "Thank you, Mrs. Lloyd."

    Seeing his mother so enthusiastic, Mitchell breathed a sigh of relief and joked, "Mom, this is Suzan''s first time here. Don''t scare her off."

    Mrs. Lloydughed, patting his hand fondly. "Oh, you! I''m just excited, that''s all. Suzan''s such a lovely girl-of course I''m happy you brought her home."

    She pulled Suzan over to the sofa and poured her a cup of tea herself, her tone gentle. "Here, Suzan. Have some tea, make yourselffortable."

    Suzan nodded obediently.

    Suddenly, Mrs. Lloyd seemed to remember something. "Mitchell, did you ever sort things out with Effie?"

    Mitchell''s expression darkened a shade. "Not yet, Mom. Effie still holds forty percent of the shares. She says she wants thirty million before she''ll hand them over."

    Mrs. Lloyd''s face clouded instantly, a sh of anger in her eyes. Her tone turned sharp. "Thirty million? She''s learned to be greedy, hasn''t she, that little witch?"

    Suzan''s heart leapt at the words, though she kept her sweet smile in ce and spoke softly, as if soothing her. "Mrs. Lloyd, please don''t get upset. It''s not worth risking your health over this. Maybe my sister... she''s just having a hard time letting go."

    Mrs. Lloyd gave a dismissive snort, her voice full of disdain. "And why shouldn''t she let go? She should know her ce."

    Mitchell frowned, a hint of frustration in his voice. "Mom, please. Whatever you think of her, Effie really does own forty percent. That''s the reality."

    He didn''t have the heart to say it, but without Effie, there would never have been an E&M in the first ce.

    The Lloyds had always thought of Mitchell as a spoiled rich kid.

    Mrs. Lloyd''s irritation only grew. "Mitchell, why are you defending her? Who does Effie think she is,ing to us with demands? Thirty million? Dream on!"

    Mitchell let out a sigh, his voice steady and calm. "Mom, this isn''t the time for pride. Thepany''s thriving, and in the long run, it''s worth it."

    She was silent for a moment, her expression icy. "Even if we do buy her out, she''s not getting everything she wants. Thirty million? No way. Mitchell, go talk to her. The highest I''ll go is ten million. Not a cent more."

    "Alright, I understand." Mitchell had already nned to negotiate with Effie.

    "Oh, and don''t forget," Mrs. Lloyd added, "there''s a business dinner tomorrow night. Your father reminded me to tell you to be there. I hear Lyman-the head of the Etheridge family-will be attending. If you can get to know him, you''ll never have to worry about business again."

    "I know, Mom. I''ll be there. Besides, a lot of our partners will be attending too." This was a crucial event for him.

    Mitchell already had a n forming in his mind.

    "That''s good." Mrs. Lloyd''s heart swelled with pride at seeing her son finallying into his own.

    But she never realized that Mitchell''s sess was thanks to Effie.

    Back when they were together, the Lloyds had looked down on her and never offered any support.

    It was Effie who built the studio and founded thepany from scratch.

    Only when thepany started to thrive did the Lloyds finally see Mitchell in a new light.

 Chapter 23

    The next morning, Effie had just arrived at the office when Mitchell came looking for her.

    She assumed he was finally ready to sign the papers.

    But Mitchell wasn''t ready to agree yet he wanted to negotiate, and he had a condition: she had to apany him to a business dinner that evening.

    It wasn''t out of the ordinary. Effie was usually his partner at these events. Many of thepany''s clients had a good impression of her; she was patient, steady, and reliable-qualities the clients respected. There were a few deals in the pipeline, and Mitchell didn''t want to risk upsetting things. If he brought Suzan instead, clients might get the wrong idea and start specting.

    To keep the business running smoothly, Effie''s attendance was essential.

    She agreed easily enough. After all, it was just another dinner.

    Effie texted Lyman in advance, letting him know she''d be at a business event that night.

    When Lyman saw her message, he paused, the corners of his mouth lifting in a small smile.

    A business dinner? Could it be the same one Luther had just mentioned?

    He''d nned to skip it-he was still basking in newlywed bliss. But if his wife was going, maybe he should show up too.

    When Lyman told Luther he''d be attending, Luther was genuinely surprised.

    Since when did Mr. Etheridge change his mind so easily? Usually, once he decided on something, that was it. And to see Mr. Etheridge smiling at his phone -now that was unheard of.

    The world was getting stranger by the day.

    After work, Effie stepped out of the office. Mitchell''s car was parked a short distance away.

    As she approached, the car door swung open, revealing Suzan in the back seat, her face carefully made up.

    "Effie, you don''t mind, do you?" Suzan asked, her voice sugary sweet. "Mitchell invited me along to get a taste of the business world. I''ll need to get used to it anyway."

    Effie took in Suzan''s practiced smile and couldn''t help butugh inwardly. She''d figured Mitchell would bring Suzan along-those two had been inseparabletely.

    She gave Suzan a cool nce, her tone calm. "Mind? Why would I mind? I''m not the one interfering in other people''s rtionships."

    Suzan was momentarily thrown by Effie''s icy response, her smile faltering. "Effie,e on, don''t say that. We''re family, after all."

    Effie let out a short, derisiveugh. "Family? Suzan, did you forget? I have nothing to do with the Bagnold family anymore. Whatever you two do has nothing to do with me."

    Suzan''s face paled as Effie''s words hit home. She opened her mouth to retort, but before she could, Mitchell leaned over from the other side of the back seat, sounding impatient. "Effie, just get in the car. Let''s not waste any more time."

    Without another word, Effie opened the passenger door and slid in.

    Suzan looked at Mitchell, her expression wounded, eyes brimming with helplessness.

    Mitchell tried to exin, "I''m bringing Suzan tonight so she can make some connections. She''ll be joining E&M as a designer soon. Don''t make this out to be something sordid."

    Effie''s eyes shed with sarcasm. If only they could keep up the act-everyone knew what was really going on between them. Still, she couldn''t be bothered to argue. Their choices were no concern of hers.

    The car ride was tense and awkward, an uneasy silence hanging in the air.

    At the venue, the three of them entered together, immediately attracting attention.

    Effie wore a simple yet elegant ck dress, her poise and cool beautymanding the room-she exuded a quiet power with every gesture.

    Suzan was in a pinkce gown, her makeup wless, giving her a sweet and delicate appearance.

    Mitchell, in a perfectly tailored suit, stood between them, drawing even more eyes.

    Around them, guests whispered, their curious gazes darting back and forth between the trio, clearly intrigued by the scene unfolding before them.

 Chapter 24

    "Isn''t that Mr. Lloyd? Why is he bringing two women with him?"

    "Haven''t you heard? Mr. Lloyd broke up with his fianc¨¦e. Now he''s getting cozy with the one by his side."

    "Yikes... that''s one tangled web."

    Effie ignored the whispers swirling around her. She walked straight to the drinks table, picked up a ss of champagne, and took a delicate sip.

    Her eyes swept across the ballroom, scanning the crowd as if searching for

    someone.

    She''d just seen a message-Lyman had business to attend to tonight as well.

    Would he show up?

    Meanwhile, Mitchell led Suzan toward a circle of business elites, greeting them with his usual easy charm.

    Suzan hung on Mitchell''s arm, wearing a sweet, innocent smile, ying the part of the perfectpanion.

    Nita sidled up next to Effie, having been summoned here by her boss. She nced at the couple across the room and frowned. "What on earth is going on, Effie? Has Mitchell lost his mind? Parading his new fling around in front of everyone... As if people didn''t already know you two were together!"

    Effie gave a faint smile. "Doesn''t matter anymore. We''ve broken up." Her tone was light, but her eyes betrayed a hint of sadness. "I just wish I hadn''t wasted so many years on him."

    Maybe every love story seems beautiful at first.

    She''d been swept away, hopelessly entangled.

    Now, looking back, it all felt like a cruel joke.

    Nita grinned, nudging her. "Well, congrattions on your freedom! And hey, there are some real catches here tonight. I heard Lyman''s supposed to be here too. I''m dying to get a look¡ªrumor has it he''s even better-looking than most celebrities!"

    Effie''s heart skipped a beat.

    Was he really here?

    "Come on, let''s go mingle." Nita grabbed Effie''s hand and pulled her along.

    Effie had expected this g to be a bore, but with Nita around, boredom was impossible.

    She''d just finished chatting with a few business partners and had stepped away to get some air.

    Suddenly, a syrupy voice rang out behind her.

    "Sis, there you are!"

    Effie looked up to see Suzan approaching.

    "Shouldn''t you be with Mitchell? What do you want from me?"

    Her voice was cool, her gaze edged with sarcasm.

    She studied Suzan''s perfectly made-up face, but felt nothing but indifference.

    Suzan gave a tiny, innocent smile. "Don''t be mad, Effie. Honestly, Mitchell still cares about you. Maybe there''s just been some misunderstanding between you

    two."

    Effie let out a sharpugh. "What are you, some kind of professional actress? Aren''t you exhausted from all this pretending?"

    Suzan blinked in surprise, then smiled slyly. "Why would I be tired? The show''s just getting started!"

    As she said it, she suddenly grabbed Effie and pulled her straight into the swimming pool.

    Effie barely had time to curse-damn it!

    Suzan waspletely unhinged!

    Caught off guard, Effie plunged into the cold water, her dress instantly soaked,

    hair stered against her face, leaving her looking utterly bedraggled.

    She struggled upright, wiped the water from her eyes, and red at Suzan. "Suzan, are you out of your mind?!"

    Effie''s voice trembled with barely contained fury; her eyes were icy cold.

    The ssh had drawn plenty of attention. People were beginning to gather around, murmuring and watching the scene unfold.

    Nita had just stepped out of the restroom. She sized up the chaos, swore under her breath, and shot an usatory re at Suzan¡ªshe''d known that little witch would cause trouble.

    Mitchell rushed over and pulled Suzan from the pool.

    "Mitchell, don''t me Effie," Suzan stammered, lips trembling as she clung to him, pale and shivering. "She didn''t mean to pull me in with her..."

 Chapter 25

    By now, Nita had already pulled Effie out of the pool.

    Effie was drenched from head to toe, so Nita quickly slipped off her own zer and wrapped it around her. Luckily, she''d worn a tailored suit for the business meeting earlier, so she still had her shirt underneath. The suit''s unique design made it perfectly eptable for an evening event like this.

    Meanwhile, Mitchell held Suzan protectively in his arms, his brow furrowed as he shot a reproachful look at Effie. "Effie, how could you do that to Suzan? What if something had happened?"

    Effie''s anger only burned hotter at his words.

    She fixed Mitchell with a cold, mocking stare. "Are you blind, Mitchell? She''s the one who dragged me into the pool, but now you''re ming me?"

    A ripple of whispers spread through the guests nearby. Some looked at Effie with disapproval, assuming her actions were fueled by jealousy.

    Suzan caught the attention, a flicker of satisfaction in her eyes before she quickly reced it with a trembling, pitiful expression. She sniffled, her voice soft and broken: "Mitchell, please don''t me my sister. It''s my fault, I shouldn''t have upset her..."

    Of course, she''d done it on purpose. In front of everyone, she wanted to see Effie humiliated.

    Nita heard this and nearly exploded. She jabbed a finger at Suzan, her voice sharp with outrage. "Suzan, cut the act! You''re the one who dragged Effie into the water, and now you''re ying the victim? Shameless!"

    Suzan shrank back from Nita''s fury, clinging tightly to Mitchell''s sleeve, her voice trembling. "I didn''t... I really didn''t... How can you say that about me?"

    Mitchell''s expression grew darker.

    He shielded Suzan behind him, his tone icy as he addressed Nita. "Miss Nita, please watch your words. Suzan can''t handle you frightening her like this."

    "Ugh, what a pair!" Nita fumed, stamping her foot.

    Mitchell was about to say more, but Suzan tugged his arm.

    "Let it go, Mitchell," she murmured, voice thick with tears. "I''m fine. I guess my sister just really hates me..."

    Her eyes shimmered with tears, her whole demeanor radiating wounded innocence.

    Before anyone could react, Effie suddenly grabbed a ss of red wine from a nearby table and threw it straight at Suzan.

    Suzan froze, the cold wine dripping down her face, her words dying in her throat as shock overtook her.

    The rich scent of wine trickled down her cheeks.

    Damn that Effie. How dare she?

    Effie''s gaze was icy, every wordced with biting sarcasm. "If you''re going to be used of something you didn''t do, you might as well actually do it. Now the wine''s on you¡ªthis time, I own it."

    With that, Effie took Nita''s hand and strode away.

    The crowd''s eyes on Suzan shifted, their judgment clear in their faces.

    One woman calm and unbothered; the other, scrambling to maintain her act. It didn''t take much to tell who was really at fault.

    "Mitchell..." Suzan''s voice quivered as she looked up at him, feigning weakness. "I''m so cold, and my head''s spinning."

    Suzan could''ve screamed with hatred for Effie. If not for her, she''d never have been made a spectacle of.

    Mitchell watched Effie''s retreating figure, a strange irritation gnawing at him.

    He nced down at Suzan in his arms and murmured, "Let me take you to the hospital, okay?"

    Suzan nodded weakly, still ying the part. "Okay."

    Effie''s clothes were cold and clinging to her, but inside, she felt an unexpected calm.

    Stepping out of the ballroom, she drew a deep breath, feeling the weight inside her chest finally lift. She looked up the night sky was spattered with stars.

    "Effie."

    A low, maic voice sounded behind her.

 Chapter 26

    Effie paused, caught off guard, and turned around. A tall man stood not far away, his tailored ck suit fitting perfectly, sharp features set in an expression both cool and enigmatic, his gaze so deep it seemed to see straight through her.

    Lyman.

    Her heart skipped a beat-no, several. Of all moments, she hadn''t expected to run into him looking such a mess.

    "Lyman." Effie offered a small smile, trying to keep her voice steady andposed.

    Nita, standing beside her, stared in disbelief.

    Wait-what?

    Was this really the infamous "prince" of Neo-Arcadia, Lyman Etheridge himself? The man who ran the entire Etheridge family? And he knew Effie?

    This was unreal.

    Before Nita could process it, Lyman was already at Effie''s side. He took her hand, his brow creasing with concern. "What happened? Why are you soaked?"

    Effie knew there was no use hiding the truth; if she didn''t tell him, he''d find out anyway. She sighed. "It was... just a little ident."

    Nita blurted out, "ident? Suzan pulled you into the pool on purpose!"

    Lyman''s expression darkened. Someone dared to mess with her? Did they have a death wish?

    Not wanting anyone to learn about her rtionship with Lyman, Effie brushed it off. "It''s fine, really. I already gave her a piece of my mind."

    She quickly changed the subject. "This is my good friend, Nita. Nita, this is Lyman."

    "Miss Nita, pleasure to meet you," Lyman greeted her politely.

    Nita was so stunned she could barely speak. The man before her was strikingly handsome, with refined features and a quiet nobility about him. Good grief, when did Effie meet someone like this? She was definitely going to interrogate herter.

    "Mr. Etheridge, nice to meet you!" Nita managed, a little breathless.

    Lyman nodded, then turned to Effie. "Let''s go home."

    Effie hesitated. "Aren''t you supposed to attend the dinner?"

    He nced at her dripping evening dress, his tone gentle but firm. ¡°No, I''ll take you home to change first."

    Effie looked down at her bedraggled state and agreed softly. "Okay. Let''s go."

    Nita watched all of this, eyes wide, mind reeling. She tugged Effie''s sleeve and whispered, "Effie, what''s going on between you two? You seem awfully close..."

    A flicker of embarrassment crossed Effie''s face as she tried toe up with an answer, but Lyman spoke up before she could. "Miss Nita, Effie is my wife."

    "What? Wife?!" Nita nearly shouted, her eyes going round as saucers. Was she hearing things?

    Effie blushed furiously-she hadn''t expected Lyman to just announce it like that.

    Once Nita recovered from the shock, she grinned and gave Effie''s shoulder a yful nudge. "Well, well, Effie! Keeping secrets from your best friend? I can''t believe you didn''t tell me!"

    Effie smiled sheepishly. "We''re keeping it under wraps for now. There''s stuff going on at thepany, and I don''t want any extra drama."

    Nita drew her fingers across her lips as if zipping them shut.

    Lyman noticed how close Effie and Nita were. "Miss Nita, let us give you a ride home."

    "No need, I drove myself," Nita replied quickly.

    With that, Effie followed Lyman out of the ballroom.

    Nita watched them go, unable to stop herself from sighing in admiration. What a

    perfect couple¡ªthey looked absolutely made for each other.

 Chapter 27

    Lyman''s chauffeur had already pulled the sleek ck Maybach up to the hotel entrance, its understated luxury blending into the shadows of the night.

    With effortless grace, Lyman stepped out and opened the car door for Effie. He waited until she was settled inside before circling around to the other side and getting in himself.

    The car glided away from the bustle of the hotel, the city''s noise fading behind them.

    Effie leaned back against the seat, turning her head just enough to watch the neon lights flicker past the window, their colors painting fleeting patterns across her face.

    Sensing her mood, Lyman spoke gently, reassuring her, "Don''t worry. You can leave everything to me."

    Effie snapped out of her thoughts and forced a small smile. "It''s nothing. I''m just a little tired, that''s all."

    Lyman''s gaze darkened, his tone turning icy. "I''ll take care of what happened at the party. If she daredy a hand on you, she''ll face the consequences."

    Without another word, Lyman called Luther, instructing him to secure the security footage from the business g-specifically, the moment Effie was pushed into the water.

    Effie was momentarily stunned.

    She hadn''t expected Lyman to pick up on that, let alone stand up for her so openly. Truth be told, dousing Suzan in red wine earlier had already soothed some of her anger, but Lyman''s protectiveness warmed her in a way she hadn''t anticipated.

    The feeling of being trusted and cared for-she realized-was deeplyforting.

    ...

    Back at the business g, anticipation hung thick in the air.

    Most of the guests were here for one reason: Lyman. Every so often, eyes would dart to the entrance, no one wanting to miss his arrival.

    Mitchell had initially nned to take Suzan to the hospital, but remembering his father''s instructions, he sent his assistant with her instead. He remained at the event, hoping to seize an opportunity.

    Standing in the corner of the ballroom, champagne flute in hand, Mitchell kept ncing at the door, growing increasingly restless. He''d expected to use tonight as a chance to get closer to Lyman, but the man was nowhere to be seen.

    "Was the information wrong?" he muttered under his breath, frustration creasing his brow.

    Others around him were whispering as well.

    "Didn''t someone say Mr. Etheridge already arrived? Where is he?"

    "Yeah, I heard he left with some woman."

    "With a woman? That can''t be right. Mr. Etheridge is never seen with women."

    But Lyman never showed.

    Disappointed, Mitchell had no choice but to head home. He thought of visiting Suzan, but his father called, summoning him back.

    When Mitchell returned to the Lloyd family estate, the house was still brightly lit. As he pushed open the front door, he found his father and Adeline waiting for him in the foyer.

    "Dad, Mom, why are you still up?"

    Mitchell''s father didn''t bother hiding his anger. "What were you thinking, bringing two women to a business g? The two of them fighting-now the entire Lloyd family is aughingstock among the city''s elite."

    He had hoped Mitchell would have matured after thesest two years. Clearly, his judgment was stillcking.

    "There''s a time and ce for everything! That was a business event, not some social yground!"

    "Dad, it was Effie. She pushed Suzan into the water," Mitchell tried to exin. His father cut him off sharply. "Enough! Don''t be so reckless next time." Adeline quickly tried to smooth things over. "Darling, don''t be upset. Suzan is a lovely girl, and the Bagnolds are a respectable family. I''ve met her before, and honestly, that Effie is just too much. But now that they''re breaking up, perhaps it''s for the best."

    Mitchell''s father grunted, his anger ebbing slightly.

    "Did you see Lyman tonight?" he asked, finally turning to what mattered most to him.

    "No, I didn''t. He must''ve been held up. He never made an appearance all evening."

 Chapter 28

    Mitchell was feeling frustrated, too.

    "Well, looks like none of us saw her this time. We''ll just have to wait for another chance," his father said with a sigh.

    "Alright,¡± Mitchell replied, then headed straight for his room.

    His mind was a tangled mess.

    It felt like things had already slipped beyond his control.

    Effie seemed dead set on leaving.

    Well, if that''s what she wanted, he wasn''t going to try and stop her.

    Let her go out and see how tough the world could be¡ªeventually, she''de running back.

    After all, Effie loved him so much. Sooner orter, she''d be begging to return to his side.

    Mitchell was absolutely certain of it.

    The next morning, after Effie finished washing up, she stepped out of her room.

    Avish breakfast was already spread across the dining table.

    Lyman looked up as soon as he saw her, greeting her with a warm smile. "Come have some breakfast."

    Effie walked over and sat down, marveling inwardly-what window had fate possibly closed for Lyman? The man was practically a jack of all trades.

    She remembered all the rumors about how cold and ruthless he was, but somehow, she just couldn''t see it.

    Were they even talking about the same person?

    After she sat down, Lyman slid a mug of warm milk in front of her, his voice gentle. "Drink some milk first. It''ll help settle your stomach."

    Effie took the mug and sipped. Theforting warmth slid down her throat, spreading through her body.

    She nced up at Lyman. "Howe you''re up so early?"

    "Just happened to wake up," he said, though in truth, he''d gotten up early just to cook breakfast for her.

    The gesture made Effie''s heart flutter. She looked down at the feast in front of her ¨Deggs, bacon, toast, fruit sd, and her favorite: blueberry pancakes.

    She couldn''t help but exim, ¡°Lyman, is there anything you can''t do? Even your cooking is amazing."

    Lyman raised an eyebrow, his tone teasing. "What, starting to feel like you hit the jackpot?"

    Effie blushed and ducked her head, taking a mouthful of pancake. "Yeah, I guess I did."

    She thought back to all those years with Mitchell-she''d always been the one making breakfast.

    Mitchell acted like a spoiled prince, never lifting a finger, just waiting to be served. After breakfast, Lyman drove Effie to work.

    But before they reached the office, Effie asked him to stop at the corner down the road instead. She walked the rest of the way.

    Lyman''s car was a bit shy, and the license te was even more eye-catching.

    Once the car stopped, he reminded her, "Call me if you need anything."

    Effie nodded. "Don''t worry. Drive safe."

    Then she turned and walked toward the office.

    She thought she was being careful.

    But as she stepped out of the car, someone spotted her.

    Suzan was standing outside the office, and from a distance, she saw Effie climbing out of the luxury car. Instantly, a wave of jealousy and suspicion washed over her.

    At first, she thought she must be seeing things.

    But as she looked closer, there was no mistaking it. It really was Effie.

    Suzan narrowed her eyes, a sly smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. Inside, she sneered: When did Effie manage to hook up with such a wealthy guy? No wonder she''d been acting so high and mightytely.

    Suzan suddenly remembered that mysterious contact name in Effie''s phone.

    Could this man be the "husband" Effie had in her contacts?

    Who would have thought little Miss Effie was such a schemer?

    Quickly, Suzan pulled out her phone and snapped a photo of Effie stepping out of

    the car. She was too far to catch the license te, but that didn''t matter.

    She was already plotting how she''d show this photo to Mitchell.

    Then he''d see what Effie was really like a shameless flirt, stringing guys along before she''d even properly broken up with him.

    Just wait, Suzan thought viciously. This was going to get interesting.

 Chapter 29

    After snapping the photo, Suzan quickly tucked away her phone, a triumphant smile ying across her lips. She watched as Effie disappeared into the office building, then hurried in after her.

    Effie, you really think you can keep that smug act up forever? Just wait till Mitchell sees this picture. Let''s see how long you can y Miss Innocent.

    Suzan let out a low, derisive chuckle before turning on her heel and heading straight for Mitchell''s office. She knocked briskly, then stepped inside.

    When Mitchell looked up and saw her, he immediately pulled her into his arms. "Are you alright?" he asked, concern flickering in his eyes.

    Suzan shook her head lightly. "I''m fine-just caught a bit of a chill, that''s all."

    "Good." Mitchell let out a breath. "So, what was it you said you saw today?" His hands began to wander restlessly over her sides.

    Suzan yfully pushed him away. "Hey! Listen to what I have to say first."

    She pulled out her phone and opened her photo gallery. "Mitchell, take a look at this. Recognize anyone?"

    Mitchell gave the screen a cursory nce, but his eyes quickly narrowed, locking onto the image.

    He stared at the photo, brows drawing together in a tight frown. There, clear as day despite the distance, was Effie stepping out of a gleaming luxury car.

    ¡°That''s Effie?¡± His voice was low, tinged with a cold edge.

    Suzan caught his reaction and felt a surge of satisfaction, though she kept her expression artfully innocent. "I wonder if that''s just a friend of hers? I mean, dropping her off this early... unless they''re living together?"

    Mitchell let out a harsh, humorlessugh. "I know all her friends. None of them could afford a car like that-hell, that''s a limited edition model. Even I couldn''t get my hands on one." His gaze was icy, his jaw clenched.

    No wonder Effie''s been so eager to break things off and leave thepany. Has she found herself a new benefactor?

    The thought weighed heavy on his chest, like a stone pressing down.

    Abruptly, he let go of Suzan, stood up, and strode out the door.

    "Mitchell, where are you going?" Suzan called after him, feigning concern.

    But inside, she knew exactly where he was headed. The curtain was about to rise on this little drama.

    Effie, you love pretending to be so above it all, don''t you?

    Mitchell stormed down the hall, his face thunderous, eyes burning with barely contained fury. The image of Effie stepping out of that car kept reying in his mind her expression rxed, ncing back at whoever was inside.

    Whoever was in that car obviously meant a lot to her.

    Effie, you really do take me for a fool, don''t you? he muttered under his breath, clenching his fists until his knuckles turned white.

    He marched straight to Effie''s office, footsteps echoing heavily in the corridor. Staff scattered out of his way, avoiding his murderous re.

    At her door, he didn''t bother to knock-just pushed it open and strode inside.

    Effie was at her desk, quietly working. She looked up at the sudden intrusion, her face unreadable.

    "Mr. Lloyd. Can I help you?" Her tone was calm, expression cool and collected. Mitchell closed the door behind him and advanced to her desk, eyes sharp as a de. ¡°Effie, care to exin whose car you arrived in this morning?"

    Effie arched an eyebrow, utterly unruffled. "Mr. Lloyd, are you checking up on me now? Who I ride with is hardly any of your business, is it?"

 Chapter 30

    Mitchell''s expression darkened further, his voiceced with barely restrained fury. "Effie, don''t y games with me. Whose car was that? What''s going on between you and that guy? Are you sneaking around behind my back? Don''t you think you owe me an exnation?"

    Effie calmly set down the file in her hands and leaned back in her chair, meeting his gaze without flinching.

    "Mr. Lloyd, this is my personal business. I don''t see why I need to report to you. We broke up, remember?"

    Her words made Mitchell''s anger boil over. He smacked his hand on the table, his voice rising sharply. "Effie! Don''t forget, we''re not really done yet! And you''re already cheating on me?"

    Effie''s face turned icy. She stood and looked him dead in the eye, her tone tinged with mockery.

    "Cheating? Mitchell, you''ve been with Suzan for ages now. And you have the nerve toe in here and throw usations at me?"

    Mitchell choked on her retort, lost for words.

    His fists clenched even tighter, his chest heaving as he struggled to keep his emotions in check.

    "Don''t push me, Effie. Don''t think you can just trade up for some rich boy and toss me aside." His voice was low, carrying a thinly veiled threat.

    He''d imed he wanted to let go, but now, knowing Effie was seeing someone else, he couldn''t stomach it.

    And she still wanted three hundred million? Over his dead body.

    Effie let out a cold, disdainfulugh. "Mr. Lloyd, is that a threat? Sorry, but I''m not scared of you."

    She knew his bravado was just wounded pride.

    Suddenly, Mitchell lunged and grabbed Effie''s wrist, yanking her toward him. His voice was cold, almost menacing. "Effie, don''t think I don''t see what you''re up to. That car you were in? It''s from the elite auto club. Your new sugar daddy must be loaded, huh?"

    Effie''s wrist throbbed under his grip, but she didn''t flinch-she just stared at him, her voice sharp as ice. "Let me go, Mitchell."

    Instead of releasing her, Mitchell''s hold tightened. "Don''t make me do something I''ll regret, Effie."

    She met his re, her own eyes hard, her words edged with warning. "Mitchell, you really ought to think through the consequences. If you don''t let go right now, I won''t hesitate to ruin you."

    Her threat made him falter for a moment; his grip ckened without him realizing. When had Effie''s gaze be so fierce? She seemed different¡ªunfamiliar.

    Effie seized the opportunity to break free, stepping back with a frostyposure. "Mr. Lloyd, have some dignity. We''re done. Let''s end this on decent terms."

    She picked up the contract again, holding it out with steely resolve.

    "Sign it, please. If you don''t, I''ll just sell my shares to someone else in the industry. This is yourst chance."

    "Mitchell, let''s just walk away clean. There''s no point dragging this out."

    Mitchell stood frozen, chest rising and falling rapidly, his eyes swirling with a tangle of emotions.

    He stared at Effie as if seeing her for the first time.

    "You''ve changed, Effie," he said quietly, resentment simmering beneath his words.

    Effie gave a short, scornfulugh. "No, Mr. Lloyd. This is who I''ve always been. You just never bothered to notice."

    Mitchell was silent for a moment, pinning her with a hard stare before speaking in a hoarse voice. "Effie, let me say this one more time. You can throw your tantrum, but don''t test my limits."

    Effie met his gaze, her own face utterly indifferent. "Pathetic."

 Chapter 31

    Mitchell froze for a moment at Effie''s words-was that really how she saw him now?

    Hadn''t he once been the most important person in her life?

    "Effie, don''t forget-your grandmother''s medical bills are still being paid by me. Without me, do you really think you''ll find another man this generous?"

    He raised his voice, trying to sound authoritative, but Effie''s expression remained calm and unmoved.

    "Mitchell, let''s not kid ourselves. Even my grandmother''s treatments are paid for with my own money-the dividends I earned at E&M. You haven''t given me a cent these past few years. In fact, now''s a good time for us to settle up."

    Mitchell had the nerve to bring up money? The shamelessness was almost impressive.

    He stared at her, his anger quickly turning to embarrassment. "Unbelievable," he snapped, before storming out and mming the door behind him.

    Effie stood there, her face serene.

    A small, rueful smile tugged at her lips. Had she been blind all these years?

    How had she never seen just how cold and self-serving Mitchell was?

    She''d truly believed she''d married for love, but in the end, love was no match for harsh reality¡ªor for the lure of something new.

    She was still lost in thought when her phone suddenly rang. She answered without checking the caller.

    "Effie, have you seen what''s trending online? Quick, go look!" Nita''s voice on the other end was practically buzzing with excitement.

    "What''s trending?"

    ¡°The business gst night! That whole mess with Suzan using you of pushing her into the pool-the security footage just got released. Now everyone can see it was actually her that dragged you in. Can you believe how shameless she is? It''s the number one topic right now-everyone finally sees Suzan for who she really is!"

    Effie blinked in surprise. That had happened even faster than she''d expected.

    Then again, Mitchell and Suzan had always been a perfect match-shameless to the core.

    "Effie, tell me the truth-was this your husband''s doing?" Nita pressed, her voice full of awe. "Who else could pull this off but Lyman?"

    The idea of a powerful man standing up for his wife-it was almost too romantic.

    Effie''s heart softened as she remembered Lyman speaking quietly to his assistant the night before.

    With her phone pressed to her ear, she couldn''t help but smile. "I think it was him," she said softly.

    "Oh my god, Lyman is incredible! The way he protects you-he''s what every woman dreams of! Effie, you''re so lucky!" Nita gushed.

    Effie couldn''t help but feel her friend''s excitement rubbing off on her, a gentle warmth blooming in her chest.

    She thought of the quiet tenderness hidden behind Lyman''s cold exteriorst night, and something inside her melted.

    Their marriage had started as a twist of fate, but Lyman''s care and protectiveness had given her a sense of safety she''d never known before.

    "Nita, you''re being ridiculous," Effie said, pretending to be annoyed, but there was

    a sweetness in her tone she couldn''t quite hide.

    "I''m not! Lyman''s amazing-don''t let him slip away!" Nita teased with augh. "And seriously, Suzan got what she deserved. Serves her right! Maybe she''ll think twice before going after you again."

    Effie''s gaze turned icy. Suzan had iting.

    After hanging up, Effie opened her phone. Sure enough, the top trending story

    was "Suzan''s Lie Exposed-Security Footage Reveals the Truth."

    She tapped on the headline. Thements section was flooded with people calling out Suzan¡ªjust reading them was cathartic.

    Effie was still scrolling, absorbed in the whirlwind of reactions, when her phone rang again.

 Chapter 32

    She nced down at her phone-it was a call from Lyman.

    "It''s you!" she answered, her voice softening almost instinctively.

    "Did you see the trending news?" Lyman''s voice was low, calm, and somehowforting.

    "Yeah, I saw it." Effie replied quietly. "Thank you."

    There was a brief silence on the other end before Lyman replied, his tone even, "No need to thank me. It''s the least I could do."

    A gentle warmth bloomed in Effie''s chest as she held the phone.

    She knew Lyman was a man of few words, but every time, he showed his care through his actions rather than promises.

    For a moment, she wondered if maybe just maybe this marriage wasn''t as hopeless as she''d first imagined.

    "Wait for me after work tonight. I''ll take you out for dinner," Lyman said.

    "Alright," Effie agreed.

    After hanging up, Effie found herself a little distracted, her mind drifting.

    Across the building, meanwhile, Suzan was teetering on the edge of a meltdown after discovering she''d made the trending topics.

    Her thoughts were a jumbled mess, her heart hammering in her chest.

    With the security footage out there, and the truth in for everyone to see, there was simply no way out.

    Especially when she caught Mitchell''s questioning gaze-Suzan felt like she might actually lose it.

    Damn it!

    Who the hell leaked that surveince video?

    Never in her wildest dreams had she imaginedst night''s incident would be caught so clearly on camera, let alone that the footage would go viral overnight, sparking a storm of controversy.

    "Mitchell, let me exin..." Suzan''s voice trembled as she tried to defend herself.

    "Suzan, why would you do something like that?" Mitchell sounded bewildered. Thinking back to how he''d stood up for her yesterday, he suddenly felt foolish.

    Suzan opened her mouth, but no words came. There was no way to talk her way out of this- the footage clearly showed her reaching out to grab Effie, and the two of them tumbling into the pool together.

    ¡°I..... I just.....¡± Suzan''s eyes brimmed with tears, her voice choking, "I was just so angry. Effie always acts so superior, and I¡ªI lost control for a moment..."

    Mitchell sighed. "Don''t ever do that again. You know, the person I care about now is you."

    Suzan wrapped her arms around him from behind. "I know. I won''t do it again." Mitchell immediately called someone, trying to get the trending post taken down, but was told, oddly enough, that it had to stay up for twenty-four hours.

    Which meant nearly everyone saw it.

    Suzan was beside herself with rage.

    Meanwhile, Shepard and Vera were in a panic as well.

    For the Bagnold family, this was a full-blown scandal.

    The moment Shepard saw the footage, he was so furious his blood pressure must have shot through the roof.

    He called both Effie and Suzan immediately.

    Effie was surprised when her phone rang, her eyes turning cold, but she still picked up.

    When she heard Shepard order her toe home at once, Effie justughed softly.

    Home? Was that really her home?

    Still, she could guess exactly why he was calling.

    And honestly, Effie was curious just how shameless they would get this time.

    After work, Effie called Lyman to apologize-she''d have to make a trip back to the Bagnold family''s house.

    Lyman told her to be careful and to call him if anything happened.

    He''d already gotten a sense of just how the Bagnold family treated Effie.

    But she was his wife now, and he''d make sure she was cherished.

    After hanging up, Effie caught a cab back to the Bagnold estate.

    She knew walking into that house was like stepping into a lion''s den, but she wasn''t afraid.

    She wasn''t the Effie they used to push around anymore.

    Let them try¡ªshe was ready for whatever came next.

 Chapter 33

    When Effie stepped through the door of the Bagnold household, she was hit by an immediate, suffocating tension.

    Shepard sat rigidly on the living room couch, his face dark with anger. Vera, dressed in an elegant evening gown, stood off to the side, her expressionplicated, saying nothing. On another sofa, Suzan sat with her head bowed, herplexion ghostly pale-clearly, she''d already endured a round of scolding.

    Suzan knew she''d messed up. After all, the fiasco had exploded online for everyone to see.

    "So, the prodigal daughter finally returns," Shepard''s voice was cold as ice as he fixed Effie with a razor-sharp stare.

    Effie met his gaze with indifference, her tone detached. "You wanted to see me?"

    Her words were t, almost as if she were speaking to a stranger. In truth, Effie felt that even strangers deserved more of her respect than Shepard did. Just looking at him, and thinking about how he and that woman had ruined her mother''s life, filled her with bitter resentment.

    "I''m your father. Is that how you speak to me?" Shepard snapped, his voice heavy with authority.

    "I thought we''d already severed those ties," Effie replied coolly. "If you have something to say, say it. If not, I''ll be leaving."

    Shepard mmed his hand on the coffee table so hard the whole room seemed to shudder. "You ungrateful brat! You dare ask what''s wrong? Look at what you''ve done! You''ve dragged the Bagnold name through the mud!"

    Effie had seen thising. She gave a short, humorlessugh, locking eyes with him. ¡°What I''ve done? Dad, are you sure you''re not confused? The security footage clearly shows Suzan dragging me into this mess. Why am I suddenly the one to me?"

    Shepard was momentarily caught off guard by her retort, his scowl deepening. Of course he knew what the footage showed he just didn''t care about the truth. All that mattered was the family''s reputation.

    Clearly, Effie was the one who''d blown things out of proportion. Otherwise, how would this have be such a public scandal? Outrageous. He should have put a stop to her long ago.

    Suzan''s recklessness had already thrown the family into the eye of a storm, and instead of defusing the situation, Effie had let it spiral further out of control. As Shepard watched Effie sit there, calm, almost amused, his anger rose.

    "Don''t you dare try to weasel out of this, Effie!" he barked. "Suzan''s your sister- no matter what she did, as her older sibling, you should have protected her, not let the whole world in on our shame! Do you have any idea what people are saying about us?"

    Effie listened to his words, a cold, mocking smile flickering at her lips. This was her father: selfish, self-serving, always ready to throw her under the bus for his own convenience.

    She replied icily, "Dad, I''m an only child. My mother had just one daughter-me. Suzan is old enough to take responsibility for her own actions. If you''re so concerned about the family''s good name, maybe you should ask Suzan why she made such a stupid decision in the first ce."

    "You-!" Shepard was so enraged his face turned a livid shade of red, his finger trembling as he pointed at her.

    Vera hurried to intervene, trying to smooth things over. "Darling, please don''t get so worked up. Effie didn''t mean for any of this to happen. Let''s all calm down and talk through it. There must be a way to fix this."

    "Fix it? How?" Shepard thundered. "Everyone online is tearing Suzan apart, and dragging the Bagnold name through the dirt along with her! Tell me how do we fix that?"

    Suzan finally broke down, tears spilling down her cheeks. "Dad, I really am sorry... I didn''t think it would get so out of hand. It was just a stupid mistake¡ª please, I''m sorry..."

 Chapter 34

    It was all Effie''s fault-damn her. If it hadn''t been for her, none of this would''ve happened. She''d never have made such a rookie mistake.

    Effie stood off to the side, watching the scene unfold with icy detachment. Not a flicker of emotion crossed her face.

    She knew perfectly well that Suzan''s tears were nothing but an act.

    This was always Suzan''s go-to move-turn on the waterworks and y the victim. And Shepard always, always took her side.

    "Effie..." Vera turned, her voice tinged with desperate pleading. "Could you put out a statement? Help Suzan clear things up? Just say it was all a misunderstanding, that you two were just messing around-sisters being sisters..."

    "A misunderstanding? Just messing around?" Effie let out a sharpugh, unable to contain herself. "Do you really think everyone''s that stupid? Suzan dragged me into this mess, and now she''s getting roasted for it. She''s just reaping what she sowed."

    Vera''s face flushed a deep, angry red. She was momentarily speechless, so stunned by Effie''s bluntness she looked as if she might choke.

    Shepard, seeing Vera''s humiliation, snapped. ¡°Effie! Don''t forget, you''re a Bagnold too!"

    Effie met his furious re, her voice cold and unwavering. "Honestly, I wish I wasn''t. And if you dragged me back here for this circus, sorry-I''m not interested in helping."

    She paused, her gaze sweeping over both of them, her words sharp as knives. "And one more thing. Don''t ever call me back here again. The two of you make my skin crawl. It''s like you''re contagious or something."

    With that, Effie turned on her heel and strode out.

    She''de today for one reason to make it clear where she stood.

    She wasn''t the same Effie they could push around anymore.

    Shepard''s fists clenched at his sides, his chest rising and falling in barely controlled rage. He shot Suzan a murderous look and stormed off toward his study.

    Suzan shrank back, not daring to make a sound.

    Only after Shepard had left did Suzan let out an angry huff. "Mom, I wish Effie would just drop dead."

    Everything that happened today¡ªevery humiliation¡ªwas all Effie''s fault.

    Vera''s hands were clenched so tightly her knuckles had gone white. Veins stood out along the backs of her hands.

    "I know, sweetheart," Vera said, her voice low and dangerous. "Don''t worry. I won''t let that bitch off so easy."

    She''d always thought Effie was harmless-not worth worrying about. She never expected Effie to be so resourceful, to actually manipte the media to her own advantage.

    Impressive, really.

    Suzan chewed her lip, then leaned in. "Mom, why don''t we just finish this? Kidnap her, bring in a couple of thugs, snap somepromising photos-naked, humiliated. Let''s see how high and mighty she is then. Mitchell will drop her in a heartbeat. No one wants damaged goods. We''d solve two problems at once!"

    The more Suzan thought about it, the more she liked the idea. The thought of Effie being broken and ruined made her pulse race with excitement.

    Vera''s eyes narrowed, her expression turning downright sinister. "I agree. It''s a good n. Leave it to me."

    She smiled coldly. "If Effie refuses to y nice, then let''s see how she likes the alternative."

    Outside the Bagnold house, Effie shivered involuntarily. She never wanted to set foot in that ce again.

    She was about to call a cab when her phone buzzed.

    Lyman''s name shed on the screen.

    "Are you done?" he asked.

    "Yeah... I''m done." Hearing Lyman''s voice, Effie suddenly felt a lump in her throat, all the frustration and hurt bubbling up at once.

    "Send me your location. I''ll be there in five," Lyman said, instantly picking up on the tremor in her voice.

    "Okay."

    She sent her location and, true to his word, Lyman''s car pulled up just minutester.

    Effie slid into the passenger seat, ncing at the man beside her. Even something as simple as the way he satposed, elegant-was wless, impossible to criticize. She bit her lip. "Thanks for picking me up."

    Her heart was still pounding in her chest.

 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 theirne. The driver mmed 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 in.

    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 mightbust.

    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.

    He looked down at her, his eyes deep and gentle.

    His hand stayed firm at her waist, the heat of his fingers seeping through her thin blouse, sending a shudder through her.

    "You alright?" His voice was deep, soft, and full of genuine concern.

    Effie finally snapped out of her daze, squirming away from his arms and bowing her head so she wouldn''t have to meet his gaze. "I-I''m fine... thank you," she stammered, her voice barely a whisper. Her ears were burning.

    Lyman couldn''t help but smile at her reaction, amusement flickering in his eyes. "Good. That''s all that matters."

    Up front, the driver was clearly shaken, ncing back to apologize. "Sorry, sir, ma''am. That car cut us off and I didn''t have time to react..."

    Lyman waved him off, his tone calm. "It''s alright. Just drive safely."

    "Yes, Mr. Etheridge." The driver breathed out, relieved, and carefully merged back into the stream of traffic.

    The next day, Effie arrived at the office.

    Mitchell came looking for her.

    She expected him to bring the contract, but he appeared empty-handed.

    Her expression cold, she spoke first. "Mitchell, if I don''t see your signature on the agreement today, I''ll sell my shares to someone else."

    She wanted to cut through the mess-no more dragging this out. The sooner she severed ties with him, the better.

    Even being entangled with him for a single second made her skin crawl.

    And she''d already promised Lyman: once this was over, she''d go home to meet his family.

    Mitchell''s expression soured. "I''ll sign. But there''s a dinner tonight, and you need

    toe. The client specifically requested you."

    Effie frowned. "You''d better keep your word."

    "I will." He answered stiffly.

    "Fine. I''ll go. I''ve already wrapped up all my work, so this will be thest event." Her tone left no room for argument.

 Chapter 36

    "Alright." Mitchell gritted his teeth as he answered.

    He knew there was no stopping Effie now.

    He couldn''t figure out what had gotten into her-she was apletely different person these days.

    Effie used to be utterly devoted to him. No matter how badly he behaved, she would always forgive him.

    But this time, she was dead set on breaking up. No pleading, no games-she meant it.

    At first, Mitchell thought she was just ying hard to get, but now, seeing her so determined, he realized she was serious.

    Well, if he couldn''t keep her, he''d at least squeeze out whatever use he could from her before she left.

    Mr. Horace was notoriously difficult¡ªand had a reputation for being a lech. None of the other designers wanted to deal with him.

    So, Mitchell deliberately tossed this thorny problem Effie''s way.

    If Effie wanted out, she''d just have to handle it.

    After work that evening, Effie texted Lyman to say she had a business dinner.

    Lyman saw the message and, with nothing better to do at home, called up his childhood friend Vinson Elliott and a few buddies to go out for drinks.

    Effie left the office with another colleague, expecting a simple evening.

    She didn''t expect Suzan to tag along momentster.

    "I''ll join you for the meeting," Suzan announced.

    Effie frowned slightly. Was Suzan just there to make trouble?

    Why did Suzan insist on following her everywhere?

    Catching Effie''s scowl, Suzan straightened her shoulders and said self-

    righteously, "I''m here to supervise. Mr. Horace is one of our most important clients -we can''t afford any slip-ups."

    She sounded like she ran the ce.

    Of course, Suzan had volunteered herself for this.

    Once she heard Effie was going, there was no way she''d miss it.

    Everyone knew about Mr. Horace-his reputation preceded him. Suzan was eager to see how Effie would handle him.

    Effie ignored her, heading straight for the car.

    Private Dining Room, Restaurant

    Effie ordered the food. A short whileter, Mr. Horace arrived with his assistant.

    "Mr. Horace, good evening. I''m Effie," she greeted him politely.

    Mr. Horace eyed her up and down before extending his hand. "A pleasure to meet you, Designer Bagnold."

    Effie immediately shook his hand.

    She wasn''t sure if she was imagining things, but it felt like Mr. Horace''s fingers lingered, almost brushing her palm. Goosebumps prickled up her arm.

    But when she nced at him, his face was perfectlyposed.

    Maybe she was just being paranoid.

    Once everyone was seated, waiters in crisp white shirts started bringing out the courses, gliding around the room with quiet efficiency.

    Effie took the opportunity to set the contract on the table and tried to steer the conversation toward business.

    But Mr. Horace nced at her and said, "No rush, Designer Bagnold. Let''s have a drink first."

    Without waiting for her response, he poured her ss full.

    Effie couldn''t refuse, so she took a sip.

    "Designer Bagnold, I like your style! I always enjoy working with people who know how to have a good time. Young, beautiful, talented-you''re a rare find." As he spoke, Mr. Horace kept making little attempts to brush her hand.

    Effie instinctively pulled away.

    His gaze was unmistakably lecherous, and she felt a wave of disgust rise up inside her.

    Still, she forced herself to endure it.

    Now she understood why Mitchell had sent her-Mr. Horace was a piece of work.

    No wonder! Mitchell really was a bastard.

    "Mr. Horace, you''re too kind. But perhaps we could start discussing the contract?¡± Effie pressed, cutting to the chase.

    "No need to hurry," Mr. Horace replied smoothly.

    Off to the side, Suzan saw what was happening and slipped away to ask the waiter for some tea.

    If Effie insisted on ying the prude, Suzan would just help Mr. Horace out a bit.

    Soon, everyone would see-Effie was nothing but a cheap little tramp.

 Chapter 37

    Suzan asked the waiter to bring over some tea, intercepting the tray at the door before anyone else could see.

    With a quick nce over her shoulder, she rummaged through her purse, pulled out a small packet, and discreetly emptied its contents into one of the cups.

    Finally, her little insurance n was about to pay off. Perfect.

    Carefully, she set the tray down on the table herself, making a point to hand out the cups personally.

    First, she offered a cup to Mr. Horace, then handed one to Effie.

    As she did, Suzan shot Effie a pointed look, the corners of her mouth curling up ever so slightly.

    Effie instantly picked up on the meaning in Suzan''s gaze, every rm in her head going off.

    Wherever Suzan was involved, letting her guard down was simply not an option.

    Suzan had just been trending for all the wrong reasons-a pariah overnight, with everyone gunning for her.

    Yet here she was, instead of lying low at home, boldly joining the dinner as if nothing had happened.

    What was she really after?

    Effie epted the cup, feeling the gentle warmth through the porcin as she mulled it over.

    She stared down at the amber liquid, watching wisps of steam curl up, carrying with them a faint, unfamiliar scent.

    Masking her suspicion, Effie set the cup back on the table and pretended to smooth her dress.

    "Designer Bagnold, aren''t you going to have some?" Mr. Horace asked, his eyes crinkling with a smile. "It''s a wonderful Darjeeling."

    "Please, after you, Mr. Horace." Effie looked up, giving him a perfectly poised smile.

    Mr. Horaceughed and tossed back his tea in one easy motion.

    Spotting this, Suzan''s eyes shed with satisfaction as she took a small sip from her own cup.

    Effie reached for her tea, lifting it to her lips-but just as she was about to drink, her hand suddenly trembled. A ssh of hot tea spilled onto her fingers and dripped down her dress.

    A bright red blotch red up across the back of her hand, the pain sharp and immediate.

    Effie gasped, then hurriedly apologized, "I''m so sorry-I''ll just go clean this up."

    She stood and quickly excused herself, heading for the restroom.

    Suzan watched her leave, brow furrowing ever so slightly.

    Did that little witch know something?

    Why the sudden clumsiness?

    But seeing Effie''s cup still half full, Suzan forced a smile and turned her attention

    to Mr. Horace,unching into a lively conversation.

    Mr. Horace, for his part, found himself pleasantly surprised by Suzan''s warmth and curvy figure. Not quite on Designer Bagnold''s level, perhaps, but certainly enthusiastic enough to keep him entertained.

    The two of them chatted merrily,ughter bubbling between them.

    Meanwhile, outside the private dining room, Effie finally let herself breathe.

    She was just making her way to the restroom when she collided with what felt like

    a brick wall¡ªa broad, solid chest that left her nose stinging.

    Looking up, she found herself staring at a face so handsome it seemed almost unreal.

    Under the restaurant''s soft golden lights, every striking angle of the man''s features was thrown into relief.

    Lyman.

    What were the odds?

    Effie froze, momentarily stunned.

    Lyman''s dark eyes lit up with a rare, teasing smile as he caught her gaze.

    "What a coincidence. Didn''t expect to run into you here on business," he said, his tone easy but his eyes lingering on her.

    Truth was, Lyman hade here on purpose.

    He''d heard Effie was having dinner with a client tonight and, worried about her position at thepany-and especially about the notorious Mr. Horace-he''d asked Luther to find out which restaurant they''d booked.

    Not about to leave things to chance, Lyman arranged a dinner here with some friends of his own.

    This ce was, admittedly, top notch.

    But he didn''t want Effie to suspect anything, didn''t want her to think he was interfering in her work.

    So he pretended to be just another diner, surprised to see her.

    Effie nodded, managing a polite, "Yeah. Small world."

    She knew Lyman was here to meet friends.

    But Lyman''s eyes suddenly dropped to her hand. Even under the dim lights, the

    angry red splotch on her pale skin was impossible to miss.

 Chapter 38

    Lyman''s brow furrowed unconsciously, a heaviness settling in his chest.

    "How did you get hurt?" he asked.

    Effie hesitated, then instinctively pulled her hand back, awkwardly replying, "I identally scalded myself with some tea."

    She couldn''t help but wonder-had Suzan done it on purpose?

    Tea that hot was barely drinkable, after all.

    Without another word, Lyman gently took her hand and led her to the sink. He turned on the cold water and held her hand under the stream.

    His expression was focused, as if he were handling something precious.

    Lyman''s hand wasrge and warm, wrapping securely around Effie''s slender wrist.

    The cold water soothed the red skin on the back of her hand, cooling it, but it did nothing to hide the blush rising on her cheeks.

    "Does it hurt?" Lyman asked softly, his gaze never leaving her hand.

    Effie shook her head. "No, it''s fine now."

    In truth, it still stung, but as she watched the concentration on Lyman''s face, the pain seemed insignificant.

    Lyman''s brow knit tighter. "How could you be so careless with piping-hot tea?"

    Effie opened her mouth, wanting to say that Suzan might have done it on purpose, but in the end, she swallowed the words.

    She didn''t want to worry him.

    "Maybe the server wasn''t paying attention to the temperature," she said lightly. Lyman nced at her, his expression unreadable.

    He turned off the tap, reached into his suit pocket, and pulled out a deep blue handkerchief, gently patting her hand dry.

    "There''s some ointment for burns at home. Are you able to walk? Let''s go back," he said.

    Effie sighed. "I can''t leave yet-Mr. Horace still hasn''t signed the contract!"

    That Mr. Horace was proving to be quite a handful.

    But she was determined to get the deal done tonight; she couldn''t give Mitchell any more excuses.

    Lyman''s frown deepened. After more than an hour of socializing, she''d managed to burn herself, and the contract still wasn''t signed?

    His face turned cold. "I''ll have Luthere handle it."

    Who did Horace think he was?

    He''d sign, one way or another.

    "I don''t think that''s necessary. Besides, don''t you have another appointment? You should go," Effie urged.

    "It''s done," Lyman replied coolly, giving her a look that brooked no argument. "Come on, let''s go home."

    She had no choice but to follow him.

    Once they were in the car, Lyman called Luther, filled him in on what happened, and asked him to take over.

    Effie felt genuinely embarrassed-she''d have to thank Luther properly next time she saw him.

    Meanwhile, in another private lounge, Vinson Elliott and his close friends were raising their sses.

    Several empty bottles already littered the table.

    "Hey, where''s Lyman? Didn''t he set this whole thing up? He was the one who picked this ce."

    "Yeah, you think he''s got an old me here or something?"

    "Old me? Please. Sometimes I wonder about Lyman''s preferences-years have

    gone by and I''ve never seen him with a woman. Well, except Isabel."

    The jokes started to fly.

    Vinson downed his drink and drawled, "Rx. I just called him¡ªhe''s probably outside. Something must''vee up."

    Before long, the group was in full party mode, none of them realizing that Lyman -distracted by a beautiful woman-had already bailed on them.

    Still, they waited, grinning, expecting Lyman to show up and pick up the tab.

 Chapter 39

    Suzan kept ncing anxiously at the door, only half-listening to Mr. Horace''s rambling conversation.

    Where the hell was Effie, that little witch? The tea she''d carefully prepared for her had already gone cold.

    Worse yet, Suzan was finding it harder and harder to fend off Mr. Horace. The moment their other colleague had stepped out, he''d dropped any pretense of professionalism. Now he was shameless, pawing at her hand and trying to pull her into hisp.

    Suzan recoiled inside. Mr. Horace was the very picture of a sleazy middle-aged man-hair thinning, belly straining against his shirt, his whole demeanor oozing nouveau riche vulgarity. He made her skin crawl.

    She was starting to regret ever agreeing toe out with him. Damn it, now she was stuck in this private lounge with him, just the two of them. He looked at her like a wolf eyeing its next meal.

    Suzan forced herself to stay outwardlyposed, swallowing her disgust. She angled her body away from him, deftly dodging his wandering hand, and managed a strained, professional smile.

    "Mr. Horace, maybe we should take a look at the contract? If you have any questions, I''d be happy to walk you through it."

    He didn''t bother hiding his annoyance at her deflection. His smile froze for a second before melting back into his usual oily grin.

    "Oh, Suzan, don''t worry about the contract. Designer Bagnold''s already exined everything¡ªjust keep mepany, and I''ll sign whatever you want."

    Suzan''s blood boiled at his shamelessness, but she gritted her teeth and kept her cool. He was an important client; if she offended him, Mitchell would never let her hear the end of it.

    This was all Effie''s fault-useless woman!

    "Mr. Horace, you really know how to joke. Here, have some tea. By the way, where did Designer Bagnold wander off to? Let me go find her." Seizing the excuse, Suzan quickly slipped out of the room.

    Mr. Horace scowled and made to follow her, but someone stepped in and blocked his path.

    "Mr. Horace, it''s been a while." The neer was neatly dressed, sses perched on his nose, exuding a quiet authority that was hard to ignore.

    Mr. Horace''s eyes widened in surprise. "Luther? What a surprise! Come in, have some tea!"

    He immediately forgot about chasing Suzan, suddenly all smiles and eager hospitality. This was Luther, Mr. Etheridge''s right-hand man¡ªa notoriously hard person to get a meeting with. Now that he''d shown up, Mr. Horace was determined to make the most of it.

    Luther entered the room, his expression unreadable. "Mr. Horace, I''vee on business. Mr. Etheridge''s wife just discussed a contract with you I wanted to check if you''ve signed it yet."

    Luther himself had only just learned that Mr. Etheridge was married, and the news had startled him. It was clear Mr. Etheridge cared deeply for his wife; otherwise, why send Luther personally over something so minor?

    Mr. Horace nearly jumped out of his seat. "Wait-Mr. Etheridge is married?"

    "I''d appreciate your discretion," Luther replied smoothly. "And if you''ve already signed the contract, I''ll take it back to Mr. Etheridge myself."

    Mr. Horace''s heart pounded. Good God-so that woman he''d been negotiating with was Mrs. Etheridge? If he''d known, he''d have signed the contract on the spot and handed it over with both hands. There was no way he''d have let things drag on enough for Luther toe in person.

    He''d really put his foot in it this time.

    Wasting not a second more, Mr. Horace scribbled his signature on the contract and handed it to Luther with both hands, his demeanor suddenly deferential.

    Luther nced over the document, then nodded. ¡°Thank you for your cooperation, Mr. Horace."

    "Not at all! I''m sure I''ll be needing your help in the future," Mr. Horace replied, eager to curry favor.

 Chapter 40

    "No problem, I''ll take the contract to Mr. Etheridge," Luther said.

    "Great, I was actually waiting for someone to pick up the contract. Now that you''re here, I''ll head out too," Mr. Horace replied. The two of them left the private room together.

    Suzan searched the area but couldn''t find Effie anywhere. When she asked a colleague, she learned that Effie had already gone home.

    Suzan''s brows furrowed in annoyance.

    That spiteful woman-Effie just left? She wasn''t even going to discuss the partnership with Mr. Horace?

    Hmph! Suzan was determined to report this to Mitchell.

    Effie wasn''t getting away with the money that easily.

    She nced discreetly into the private room and saw that Mr. Horace was gone, presumably having left already.

    Suzan let out a coldugh.

    Effie had clearly annoyed Mr. Horace, so the deal must have fallen through.

    Suzan couldn''t wait to see how Effie would handle the fallout.

    She was ready to sit back and enjoy the show.

    Without wasting another moment, Suzan grabbed her phone and dialed Mitchell to report what had happened.

    ...

    Meanwhile, Lyman and Effie headed home together.

    As soon as they got back, Lyman fetched a burn ointment and carefully applied it to Effie''s skin.

    Effie honestly didn''t think it was a big deal, but seeing how cautious and gentle Lyman was, a wave of warmth spread through her chest.

    Not long after, Luther arrived with the signed contract from Mr. Horace.

    Effie was overjoyed-finally, the problem was resolved.

    Mr. Horace had clearly been trying to give them a hard time, but it was nothing

    that a single phone call from Lyman couldn''t fix.

    No wonder he was the head of the Etheridge Group.

    Effie snuck a nce at Lyman, her heart skipping a beat.

    After settling in, Lyman went to the kitchen and made her a cup of hot milk.

    "Here, have some warm milk. It''ll help you sleep," he said.

    Effie had always liked a ss of milk before bed, but she hadn''t had any since moving in.

    To her surprise, it was her favorite brand.

    How did Lyman know?

    Her heart fluttered at the thought, though she didn''t dare read too much into it. Maybe Lyman liked it too, she told herself.

    After all that wine tonight, a cup of warm milk felt good and settled her stomach.

    When she finished, Effie headed to the shower.

    Lyman watched her retreating figure and couldn''t help but smile.

    The house felt so much warmer with Effie around. It finally felt like a home.

    He found himself looking forward to this kind of life more and more.

    Suddenly, his phone rang-Vinson Elliott was calling.

    "Lyman, where the hell did you go? Weren''t you the one who set up tonight''s get- together? You disappeared on us. Are you messing with us?" Vinson''s words were slightly slurred from drinking, but he still sounded sharp as ever.

    He lounged back in his chair, cigarette in hand, phone pressed to his ear.

    Everyone was waiting for Lyman. He''d said he''d be right outside, but after all this time, he was nowhere to be seen.

    "I''m home," Lyman replied mildly.

    Vinson''s voice rose in disbelief. "Home? We don''t see you anywhere! Did you go to the wrong ce or what?"

    "I went home," Lyman repeated, rubbing his brow, his tone apologetic. "Sorry, something came up and I forgot to tell you guys."

    "For crying out loud!" Vinson swore. "I''m sending you the bill. If I didn''t know you better, I''d swear some woman dragged you off."

    Lyman didn''t argue.

    Because, honestly, he had been dragged home by a woman.

    "No way, you''re actually with a woman?" Vinson shot upright in his chair, sounding shocked.

    "Yeah." Lyman ended the call before Vinson could start grilling him for details.

    He wasn''t about to give him the chance to gossip.

 Chapter 41

    The next morning, Effie had barely set foot in the office when Mitchell stormed over, his face flushed with anger.

    He raised his voice, not caring who heard. "Effie, what the hell was that about? Were you trying to piss off Mr. Horace on purpose? Why''d you leave early? You just ditched one of our most important clients?"

    Effie faced Mitchell''s tirade with aposed expression. Her gaze was cool, her tone steady and unyielding. "Mr. Lloyd, are you just looking for someone to me? Were you even therest night? Do you actually know what happened?"

    Mitchell''s brow furrowed, his anger barely contained. "Don''t try to wriggle out of this, Effie. You know the deal-we agreed that if you didn''t close the contract, I wouldn''t sign off on yourmission. Don''t think you can just walk away with the money."

    Effie looked at him¡ªthis man she''d wasted years of affection on-and felt only disgust.

    At least now she could finally see him for who he really was.

    Before she could reply, Suzan sauntered over, hips swaying as she put on her usual fake smile. "Sis, you''d better call Mr. Horace and smooth things over. Maybe if you grovel, you''ll still have a shot at the contract."

    Effie let out a short, coldugh, her eyes flicking over Suzan''s insincere face. Her voice was as chilly as ever.

    "You can rx. Mr. Horace has already signed the contract."

    With that, Effie calmly pulled the document out of her bag.

    Suzan''s eyes went wide. She couldn''t believe it¡ªshe refused to. It had to be a trick.

    She snatched the contract, flipping straight to the signature page. When she saw Mr. Horace''s name scrawled there, she blurted out, "That''s impossible! You left earlyst night¡ªhow could you have gotten him to sign?"

    Effie shot her a frosty look, her disgust barely concealed. "Suzan, how I got the signature is none of your business."

    Suzan was left speechless, her face flushing an angry red. "This signature has to be a fake."

    Effie seemed almost amused by her predictability. Her tone was calm, edging on sarcastic. "Suzan, do you really think everyone''s as fake as you? From head to toe, nothing about you is real."

    Suzan had spent a small fortune on cosmetic procedures, convinced no one knew her secret.

    But the moment Effie''s words hit, Suzan''s face went sheet-white, panic flickering in her eyes. She reached up, almost unconsciously, to touch her cheek. Her voice trembled, "What are you talking about? Stop making things up!"

    Effie gave a sharp, mirthlessugh, her gaze cutting. "If you don''t want people to find out, maybe don''t do it in the first ce. You im the signature''s fake? Feel free to call Mr. Horace and check."

    She stood there, perfectly unfazed.

    But Suzan didn''t even get the chance to dial-Mitchell''s phone started to ring. Mitchell nced at the screen, then quickly answered. "Hello, Mr. Horace?"

    "Mr. Lloyd," came the voice on the other end, "I''ve signed the contract. Please make sure everything goes smoothly. From now on, I want Designer Bagnold to handle all my ounts."

    Latching onto Designer Bagnold was a smart move-no need to worry about future orders. After all, Mr. Etheridge owed him a favor now.

    Mitchell''s brow twitched, but he managed to keep his voice steady. ¡°Thank you, Mr. Horace. Looking forward to working together."

    After hanging up, Mitchell was left with a nagging sense of confusion. Mr. Horace seemed like apletely different person-he''d always been difficult and flirtatious, and now he sounded almost... possessed. And he was insisting on Effie managing his ount?

    A new suspicion took root. His voice turned sharp and using. "Effie, did you do something inappropriate with Mr. Horace? How else would you¡ª"

    Effie had finally had enough. She raised her hand and pped Mitchell hard across the face.

    "Mitchell, just because you''re filthy doesn''t mean everyone else is too."

 Chapter 42

    "Effie, how dare you..." Mitchell''s expression darkened instantly.

    Suzan looked stricken. "Sis, how could you hit someone?"

    "Let''s not waste time. We agreed on this before-just sign," Effie said, pulling out the papers and handing them over.

    "Mitchell, I hope we can part ways peacefully."

    Mitchell pressed his lips together, nced at the agreement, and signed with

    clenched teeth. "Effie, I hope you won''t regret this."

    Effie gave a calm, almost amused smile. "Don''t worry. I won''t-ever."

    Mitchell scrawled his signature furiously.

    Suzan, seeing this, finally let out a sigh of relief.

    She didn''t want them tangled up any longer. Now, the title of Mrs. Lloyd would finally be hers.

    "I expect you to transfer the money within three days and settle everything," Effie said, her tone icy.

    "Effie, don''t push your luck. You''ll regret this someday. You really think you can make it without me?" Mitchell snapped, his voice full of warning.

    Effie almostughed. Mitchell and his endless arrogance.

    "Fine. We''ll see, won''t we?" she replied, then started gathering her things.

    Her work was already handed over; there was no reason to stay a moment longer.

    Mitchell scoffed, shot her a final re, and stormed out.

    Suzan put on her sweetest, most insincere smile. "Good luck, sis."

    With that, she left, gloating.

    Effie just smiled faintly. Walking out of this toxic ce was a relief. She was almost giddy.

    Once she''d packed up, Effie headed straight to visit her grandmother.

    ...

    The weekend arrived before she knew it, and Lyman was taking Effie home to meet his family.

    Effie was nervous-finally, the moment hade. The dreaded introduction every fianc¨¦e faces.

    She carefully wrapped the gifts she''d prepared, her nerves fluttering as she got into the car.

    They drove through an upscale neighborhood, and soon pulled up to an impressive manor house.

    Effie stepped out, staring at the stately old building before her. The sheer grandeur left her breathless.

    "This is your house?" she blurted out before she could stop herself.

    The difference between people really could be worlds apart.

    She''d visited the Lloyds before and thought their ce was impressive-butpared to this, it was nothing.

    Lyman just chuckled, easy and reassuring. "This is home. Come on everyone''s

    waiting for you. They can''t wait to meet you."

    Effie nodded, her nerves spiking even higher.

    She took a steadying breath and followed Lyman inside.

    At the door, a graceful woman in a simple, elegant dress greeted them, her warm smile instantly putting Effie a little at ease. She looked Effie up and down, her eyes kind and appraising, then nodded with clear approval.

    "You must be Effie?" Lyman''s mother, Lindy, asked, her voice gentle.

    Lyman nodded. "Mom, this is Effie. Effie, this is my mother."

    Effie stepped forward quickly and said politely, "Hello, Mrs. Miller. I''m Effie."

    Lindy took her hand warmly. "Oh, sweetheart, you don''t need to be so formal. We''re family now just call me Mom."

    Effie blushed at her kindness but nodded obediently. "Alright... Mom."

    Lindy beamed, obviously pleased, and led her into the living room. "Come in,e in. Your father and grandfather are both waiting."

    Lindy was practically glowing with happiness. Finally, her son had brought home such a wonderful girl-her dream wasing true atst!

 Chapter 43

    Effie felt her nerves begin to settle, swept up in Lindy''s warm enthusiasm.

    She followed Lindy into the living room and immediately noticed two distinguished men seated on the sofa.

    The first was Lyman''s father, Frederick Etheridge.

    He wore a sharply tailored suit, his expression serious but dignified, his keen eyes sizing Effie up with a hint of scrutiny.

    Beside him sat Lyman''s grandfather, Bartholomew Etheridge.

    Though well into his eighties, he radiated vitality, his gaze gentle and his smile genuinely kind as he looked at Effie.

    Lyman stepped forward, his tone respectful. "Dad, Grandpa, this is Effie-my wife."

    Effie quickly moved up, dipped her head in a polite nod, and greeted them. "Hello, Grandpa, hello, Dad. I''m Effie."

    She handed them the gifts she''d brought, her manners impable.

    Both men smiled, nodding in approval.

    Not bad this girl knows how to carry herself.

    Frederick''s deep voice rumbled, "Please, have a seat. No need to be nervous."

    Bartholomew''s smile widened, his eyes crinkling with warmth as he beckoned her over. "Come here, sweetheart, let me get a good look at you."

    Effie obediently stepped up to him.

    Bartholomew observed her closely, then nodded with satisfaction. "Wonderful, wonderful. You''re a good one. Lyman, you chose well."

    With that, Bartholomew produced a velvet box from beside him. "This is a little something from me to mark our first meeting. See if you like it."

    Effie hesitated, nerves fluttering as she epted the box and opened it. Inside was an exquisite emerald bracelet, its rity and luster revealing it to be an incredibly rare and valuable piece.

    Effie, who knew a thing or two about jewelry, understood instantly that this bracelet was worth a fortune-easily millions.

    Her voice trembled as she protested, "Grandpa, this... this is far too generous. I can''t ept it."

    The family exchanged nces, their smiles deepening with approval. Clearly, she wasn''t the type to covet material things.

    Bartholomew waved her off. "Nonsense. When I give a gift, I never take it back. It''s just a token of my affection."

    Lyman gave her a reassuring smile. "Go on, Effie. Take it. They wouldn''t have picked these gifts if they didn''t like you. There''s no need to feel pressured-we''re family now."

    Then Frederick and Lindy presented their own gifts.

    Jewelry, the deed to a property, keys to a luxury car...

    The pile in Effie''s hands towered over her slight figure.

    She was stunned.

    Wasn''t this a bit much?

    These gifts were so extravagant that Effie could hardly believe it¡ªthey made her feel simultaneously overwhelmed and deeply cherished.

    Her arms felt heavy just holding them.

    Suddenly, Effie remembered the first time she''d met Adeline. The woman had looked her over with barely concealed disdain¡ªlet alone presented her with any gifts.

    "Dad, Mom, this is all... really too much," Effie stammered, her voice trembling with emotion. She could sense how much this family valued her, and it moved her deeply.

    She''d married Lyman partly out of defiance, but now she felt like she''d struck gold.

    Lyman stepped over, gently setting the gifts down on the coffee table. His tone was gentle but firm. "Everything my parents gave you, you should keep. They went to all this trouble because they care about you. Don''t feel burdened. From now on, you''re family."

    Effie looked up at Lyman, her eyes misty.

    She pressed her lips together, her voice barely above a whisper. "But... these gifts are so expensive, I..."

    Lindy came over, smiling warmly as she took Effie''s hand in hers, her tone

    motherly and reassuring. "Silly girl, no matter how valuable these things are, they''re nothingpared to the love you have for Lyman. As long as you two are happy, that''s all that matters."

 Chapter 44

    The atmosphere in the living room suddenly lightened, and Effie found herself starting to rx.

    She sat beside Lyman, listening as Lindy and Bancroft chatted about family matters. Every now and then, she answered their questions with poise and warmth, fitting in easily.

    The more Lindy watched her, the more pleased she became. In her heart, she thought, This girl isn''t just beautiful-she carries herself with such grace, and her gentle, polite nature is truly endearing. The more I see her, the more I like her.

    Even Friedman, who usually kept quiet, let the stern look in his eyes soften, the critical edge shifting to approval.

    Bancroft beamed at Effie. "Sweetheart, you''re family now. If you ever need anything, just ask. Don''t be shy."

    Effie felt a wave of warmth wash over her. Smiling, she replied, "Thank you, Grandpa. I will."

    Lyman watched her blending so naturally with his family and reached for her hand, squeezing it gently. He whispered, "Rx. They''re easy to get along with, I promise."

    She squeezed his hand back, a soft smile on her lips. "I know. I can feel it."

    At that moment, Lindy pped her hands together with a bright smile. "Alright, it''s about time! Let''s have dinner-tonight, we''ve got a feast to celebrate the newest member of our family!"

    With that, everyone headed to the dining room in high spirits.

    During dinner, Lindy brought up the wedding. Effie didn''t mind; she was already content with how things were. But Lindy insisted she shouldn''t worry about a thing -all she needed to do was be a beautiful bride when the day arrived.

    Lindy made it clear she would handle everything. She was determined to throw a grand wedding-after all, a wedding in the Etheridge family was a big deal.

    Looking around at everyone gathered at the table, Effie felt a surge of warmth in her chest.

    She''d never imagined she''d be weed like this, treated with such genuine kindness.

    Compared to Mitchell''s family, Lyman''s rtives felt like a different world¡ªno coldness, no disdain; just open arms and heartfelt eptance.

    She drew in a deep breath, her voice catching. "Thank you, Dad. Thank you, Mom. Thank you, Grandpa... I promise I''ll treasure this."

    Lindy patted her hand, beaming. "That''s more like it! From now on, you''re our daughter. If you need anything, just say so don''t stand on ceremony."

    Lyman watched from the side, a small smile ying at the corners of his mouth as he saw how adored Effie was.

    He slipped his arm around her shoulders and murmured in her ear, "See? I told you they''d love you."

    As they left the Etheridge home, Effie still felt as if she were dreaming.

    She silently vowed to cherish them, always.

    ...

    Meanwhile, after Mitchell signed the agreement, he still hadn''t transferred the money. Effie decided to give him three days.

    At that moment, Mitchell was downing shots with his old friend Chuck, both of them already drunk.

    Between swigs, Mitchellined bitterly.

    Chuck sighed, shaking his head. "What are you thinking? I''ve watched you and Effie over the years you two were great together. How did ite to this?"

    Mitchell scoffed, "Effie''s the one who''s unreasonable. I''ve spoiled her for years. Now she''s selling me her shares, ready to cut all ties? Who''s afraid of who? She should remember-if not for me, she wouldn''t have the life she has now."

    He gave a dryugh, thinking Effie woulde crawling back to him.

    Chuck could only sigh again-no amount of advice seemed to get through.

    "Compared to Suzan, Effie''s miles better. She''s smart, beautiful, independent¡ª everyone''s seen how outstanding she is. Suzan''s just a fling. If you take her seriously, she''ll bring you nothing but trouble."

 Chapter 45

    Chuck had met Suzan a handful of times.

    Aside from being younger, he honestly couldn''t see any redeeming qualities in her.

    Especially with all that tech on disy-she dressed like a walking gadget store, and it was honestly off-putting.

    The first time Chuck had met Suzan, he''d sensed something calcting about her. She was clever, maybe a little too clever for her own good.

    She was nothingpared to Effie. Not even in the same league.

    And yet, somehow, the two were half-sisters-same father, different mothers.

    What really disgusted Chuck was that Suzan had known perfectly well that Mitchell was her sister''s fianc¨¦, and still she''d gone after him. There was no shame in her game, and Chuck found it despicable.

    But Mitchell seemed utterly bewitched by her. He thought Suzan was beautiful and young; even her little tantrums and moods struck him as endearing.

    Mitchell, for his part, was reveling in the whole thing.

    It was a ssic case of the onlooker seeing clearly while the person involved was hopelessly blind.

    Chuck could see it in as day: Mitchell waspletely infatuated, unable to see the situation for what it was.

    Once he and Effie really split up, that''s when Mitchell would realize what a mistake he''d made. Regret woulde, sure as day.

    After a long silence, Mitchell let out a scornfulugh. "Impossible. Suzan''s sweet and thoughtful, and she makes the first move. Effie? She''s as prim as a nun-so uptight it makes me sick."

    Chuck kept his mouth shut. He knew arguing would be pointless.

    Sooner orter, Mitchell would have to learn his lesson the hard way.

    Right now, Mitchell waspletely out of his mind, lost to all reason.

    Mitchell was used to thinking of himself as special, someone the world revolved

    around. Deep down, he''d always looked down on Effie.

    He figured Effie needed him, couldn''t get by without him.

    So when Effie finally made a clean break, Mitchell was furious.

    The next day, he wired the money over to her.

    When Effie saw the bank notification, she froze. This was her pensation" for all those lost years.

    She stared at the string of numbers on her phone, a storm of emotions swirling inside her.

    It was finally done.

    A clean break. Time to start over.

    Effie started updating her r¨¦sum¨¦, ready to send out applications.

    She was also waiting for the results of thepetition she''d entered. The first round results would be out soon.

    With more free time than she''d had in ages, Effie decided to go grocery shopping and treat herself to a proper homemade dinner for once.

    She''d been so busytely, she''d barely had time to eat, let alone cook.

    She threw on somefortable clothes and headed out the door.

    The big supermarket was only a few blocks away, so she decided to walk.

    A gentle breeze made the stroll pleasant, and for the first time in a while, Effie actually felt at ease.

    Just as she reached the crosswalk across from the supermarket, an old, battered van suddenly sped toward her.

    Effie startled, barely registering what was happening before the van screeched to a halt. Two masked men jumped out, moving fast. One mped a cloth over her mouth, and in a matter of seconds, they dragged her into the van.

    The vehicle tore off down the street.

    Panic hit Effie like a wave. She fought back with everything she had, but the odds were hopelessly stacked against her.

    The chemical fumes from the cloth seeped into her lungs. Her vision blurred, her limbs turned to lead, and she copsed, helpless.

    Just before darkness imed her, one thought shed through Effie''s mind- Lyman.

    Would he know something had happened to her?

    If he did...would hee for her?

    The world went ck.

    The van sped out of the city and finally stopped at an abandoned factory on the outskirts.

    The men hauled Effie inside.

    A bucket of icy water crashed over her head, jolting her awake.

    Effie''s mind swam as she slowly came to. Her head throbbed viciously from the ether. She forced her eyes open.

    Two masked men stood before her, staring down with cold, unfeeling eyes.

 Chapter 46

    Effie couldn''t help but knit her brows. Was she... kidnapped?

    She forced herself to stay calm.

    Shifting her aching body, she tried to get her bearings. Her wrists were tied tightly behind her back with coarse rope, her ankles bound so she couldn''t move. The air was heavy with a damp, moldy stench,ced with the sharp, chemical bite of ether that made her stomach churn.

    "Who... who are you? Why did you bring me here? I don''t have any money," Effie croaked, her voice hoarse.

    She took a shaky breath, willing herself not to panic.

    One of the kidnappers, a bald man, snorted. "Cut the act, sweetheart. We know all about that fat stack of cash you just got your hands on. Think you can trick us? You''re not nearly clever enough."

    Effie''s heart lurched. The only ones who knew about the money from selling her shares were Mitchell and Suzan-or so she thought.

    The payment had onlye through yesterday, and now here she was, kidnapped the very next day.

    That was fast. Too fast.

    Effie pressed her lips together and put on her best pitiful face. "You guys must have the wrong info. Just look at me-my clothes, my bag-together they''re not even worth thirty bucks. I just got fired, too. Do I really look like someone with money?"

    The two men exchanged a nce.

    Then the other one-the one with the scar across his cheek-pulled a small knife from his pocket. Its de gleamed coldly in the dim light as he slowly brought it up to Effie''s face.

    He growled, voice rough and menacing, "Don''t y games with us,dy. We''ve done our homework."

    "Fine, believe what you want," Effie said, trying to keep her voice steady. "But if there''s no money, then I guess my life just isn''t worth much."

    Her heart hammered in her chest, but she forced herself not to look away as she met the scarred man''s eyes.

    The two men were clearly unsatisfied. "What about your family? Surely someone would pay up for you."

    Effie let out a faint, bitter sigh. "I don''t have anyone left. My mom''s gone, and my dad-well, he never cared much."

    The bald guy grunted, impatient. "Enough with the sob story. If there''s no cash, there''s no point in wasting our time. Maybe we''ll just have our fun with you instead. That''s worth something."

    The scarred man nodded, leering. "Yeah, it''s been a while since we''ve had a good time."

    His gaze drifted down to the neckline of Effie''s blouse, lingering on her pale skin. He swallowed, his intentions clear.

    Originally, they''d only been hired to take somepromising photos. But now, if there was no ransom, they figured they''d get paid another way.

    Effie felt a wave of cold terror crash through her, her blood freezing in her veins. She hadn''t expected them to be this depraved.

    Stay calm, she told herself over and over. Think. What do I do?

    As the two men started closing in, Effie suddenly spoke, her voice soft and sweet. "Wait. Tying me up like this isn''t much fun, is it? Why don''t you untie me?"

    She was stalling, hoping desperately that Lyman would realize she was missing ande looking for her.

    The bald man eyed her suspiciously. "Trying to pull something?"

    Effie put on her most innocent expression. "Come on, guys-there are two of you

    and I''m just one woman. You really think I could get away?"

    The scarred man nodded. "She''s got a point. Wouldn''t be any fun if she just lies there like dead weight."

    The bald man considered, then shrugged. "Fine."

    He untied her.

    Effie swallowed hard, trying to figure out how to buy herself more time. Silently, she prayed that Lyman would realize something was wrong ande for her.

 Chapter 47

    Lyman had already noticed Effie was missing.

    He knew Effie''s business with herpany had wrapped up, and she''d nned to be home all day.

    Around noon, on a whim, Lyman decided to swing by the house.

    But when he walked through the door, the ce was empty.

    He immediately called Effie''s cell, but to his surprise, her phone was off.

    Unbeknownst to him, the two kidnappers who''d forced Effie into their van had already switched off her phone.

    A strange feeling crept over Lyman. Where could Effie have gone?

    In broad daylight, there was no reason for her to turn off her phone¡ªunless it had run out of battery. But that didn''t seem right.

    He frowned, an uneasy premonition tightening in his chest.

    Effie wasn''t the type to just disappear without a word.

    Besides visiting her grandmother, where else would she go? But she''d just been to see her grandmother the day before.

    Wait-Lyman recalled Effie had a close friend named Nita.

    Without hesitation, he told Luther to find Nita''s contact information.

    For Lyman, finding someone was child''s y.

    Within minutes, Luther had Nita''s number.

    Lyman got in touch right away.

    Nita told him that Effie had called that morning, mentioning she was heading to the grocery store.

    And Effie would never turn off her phone; she always kept it charged, just in case her grandmother needed her.

    Which could only mean something was very wrong.

    Lyman didn''t waste a second. His tone was all business as he ordered Luther to mobilize their people-especially to check the security cameras around the supermarket.

    His face was like stone, cold and hard as ice.

    It wasn''t long before Luther called back.

    Just before noon, security footage from near the store showed a woman being forced into a van.

    Luther wasn''t sure if it was Effie.

    He sent the footage to Lyman immediately.

    Lyman opened the video and with a single nce, he knew it was Effie.

    Who on earth would do this?

    Could it be one of his rivals?

    Lyman''s gaze turned to steel, his fists clenched so tightly his knuckles whitened.

    On the screen, two masked men dragged Effie into the van. Rage surged through him, threatening to boil over.

    Whoever daredy a hand on Effie had just crossed the line.

    "Luther, track down that van-now!" Lyman''s voice was low and icy, brooking no argument.

    "Yes, Mr. Etheridge!" came Luther''s immediate reply. Lyman could hear the rapid tter of keys in the background. "I''m having all nearby traffic cameras pulled up. We''ll have their route pinned down in no time."

    Lyman ended the call, a fierce glint in his eyes.

    He dialed another number. A rough voice answered, ¡°Mr. Etheridge, what can I do for you?"

    "ck, I need you to find someone." Lyman''s voice was colder than the grave. "My wife''s been abducted. Use every connection you have-I want her found, fast."

    "Understood, Mr. Etheridge." ck''s answer was crisp. "I''ll get everyone on it, both sides of thew."

    Lyman hung up and drew a deep breath, forcing himself to stay calm.

    Minutester, Luther called back, urgency in his voice. "Mr. Etheridge, the van wasst seen near the abandoned factory in the Western district. I''ve sent our people, but it''s a big area¡ªit may take some time."

    "I''m going myself." Lyman''s words were like a de. He hung up, striding toward the garage with grim determination.

    Anyone who dared mess with him was either already dead-or about to be.

 Chapter 48

    After Effie''s restraints were cut loose, she gingerly flexed her aching wrists, scanning the abandoned factory for anything she could use a tool, a way out, anything.

    But her hopes were abruptly dashed by the bald man''s harsh snarl. "Listen, sweetheart, you''d better y nice, or things are gonna get a whole lot worse for you."

    Effie feigned meekness, her voice trembling just enough to sound convincing. "Please, sir, I don''t understand what''s going on. This is my first time..."

    The two kidnappers exchanged nces, their eyes lighting up with anticipation. Suddenly, the scarred man pulled out his phone and started recording, setting Effie''s nerves on edge. An icy jolt of dread shot through her.

    Her eyes widened in panic. "What are you doing? What do you want from me?"

    "Don''t take it personal," the scarred man said with a twisted grin. "We''re just doing a job. Someone paid us, and they want... pictures. Plus, we need some insurance. If you try going to the cops, we''ve got evidence to make your life hell."

    Effie''s heart pounded. "No, please-you don''t have to worry, I swear I won''t tell anyone. I won''t go to the police..." Damn it, this had to be Suzan''s doing.

    How vicious could she get? Was she trying to ruin herpletely?

    "Too bad, honey. It''s not up to you," the bald man sneered.

    They closed in on her. Effie braced herself, ready to fight to the bitter end. She would die before letting these monsters get their way.

    The scarred man wasted no time, reaching for her cor. Effie retreated desperately, but with a quick, savage yank, he tore her blouse open. The pink strap of her bra and pale skin were suddenly exposed.

    The scarred man licked his lips, his breathing ragged. This was his lucky day¡ª she was better than he''d dared hope.

    Her skin looks so soft, he thought, can''t wait to get my hands on her.

    The bald man fumbled forward, just as eager.

    Effie''s eyes brimmed with tears of rage, but cornered and outnumbered, she was powerless. She red at them, a trapped lioness ready to go down fighting.

    She wanted nothing more than to kill them both.

    Then, out of the corner of her eye, Effie spotted a metal rod lying in the shadows. She edged backward, reaching for it, desperate for any chance to defend herself.

    But the bald man spotted it first. He kicked the rod away, then lunged for her, his filthy hands grabbing at her chest.

    At that exact moment, a thunderous crash echoed through the factory.

    The heavy steel door crashed to the ground with a cloud of dust, and a tall man stormed in. He wore a sharp ck suit, moving with a deadly calm.

    The moment Effie saw Lyman, herposure finally broke. Tears she''d been fighting spilled down her cheeks. Atst, he was here.

    Lyman took in the scene-Effie''s torn clothes, the fear in her eyes-and his gaze turned cold as steel, glinting with lethal intent.

    He charged forward,nding a brutal kick that sent the bald man reeling. Without

    a word, he shrugged off his suit jacket and draped it over Effie''s shoulders.

    Effie''s eyes welled up again; she gripped the jacket as if it were a lifeline.

    "Are you hurt?" Lyman asked, his voice low and tight with emotion.

    Effie shook her head, clinging to him. ¡°I''m okay. Thank you. Thank God you came, Lyman."

    For a split second, something gentle flickered in Lyman''s eyes-then it was gone, reced by a chilling fury.

    "You two must have a death wish," he growled.

    His face was a mask of barely restrained violence. Not satisfied, he drove his foot

    into each kidnapper again for good measure.

    The two thugs were stunned senseless, sent sprawling across the cracked concrete floor.

 Chapter 49

    The bald man and the scarred thug finally got a good look at who had barged in¡ª Lyman. Instantly, their faces drained of all color.

    They clearly recognized Lyman, and it was obvious they understood they''d picked a fight with the wrong person.

    "M-Mr. Etheridge, this is... this is just a misunderstanding!" the bald man stammered, his voice trembling with fear.

    The scarred man clutched his stomach, groaning in pain as he pleaded, "Please, have mercy! We were just following orders... we didn''t want any trouble..."

    Neither of them could understand how Lyman had found them so quickly, not in a ce this remote and hard to locate.

    Effie, who''d been tense and on the verge of panic only moments ago, now stared at Lyman in a daze, half-convinced she must be dreaming.

    Her fingers clenched tightly around her suit jacket as she rasped out, "Talk. Who put you up to this?"

    Even though she already had her suspicions, she needed to hear it from their own mouths.

    The two kidnappers exchanged nces but stayed silent, holding onto ast shred of loyalty. They weren''t about to sell out the people who hired them-at least, not yet.

    Lyman''s expression was ice-cold as he gave a curt wave. His men stepped forward immediately.

    "Teach them a lesson. Keep going until they talk."

    At that, the scarred man nearly copsed, shaking uncontrobly. "I-I''ll talk! It was... it was Vera and Miss Bagnold! They told us to kidnap thisdy, and... and make somepromising videos of her... Please, I swear we didn''t know who she was..."

    "Yeah, that''s right! We''ll never do anything like this again, Mr. Etheridge, please spare us... I''ve got a family to support..." The bald man was practically in tears, seconds away from losing control.

    They truly had no idea how foolish they''d been.

    Lyman Etheridge was infamous-a man everyone in the underworld feared. Crossing him was a death sentence.

    Damn those two women. Why hadn''t they told them this girl was connected to Lyman? Even with ten times their courage, they''d never have dared touch her.

    Lyman''s face darkened with worry. He hadn''t expected Effie to be surrounded by such danger.

    Effie herself staggered back a couple of steps, stunned. She''d had her suspicions, but hearing the truth directly from the kidnappers was still a shock.

    She couldn''t understand it.

    She''d already left the Bagnold family. Her rtionship with Shepard was all but severed. Why were they still so intent on destroying her, resorting to such cruel and vicious tactics?

    Pressing her lips into a thin line, her gaze turned icy.

    If that''s how they wanted to y, she''d stop holding back.

    Lyman, his expression frosty and his entire presence radiating cold fury, snapped, "Call the police."

    But Effie shook her head, stopping him. "No. Don''t call the police."

    Lyman looked at her, puzzled. "Why not? You can''t just let them go. Don''t worry- if you''re afraid, I''ll handle everything."

    He thought she was hesitating out of fear.

    Effie''s voice was cold as steel as she turned to the bald man. "You''re going to call Vera right now. Tell her you''ve been found out. If she doesn''t want this to go public, she needs to wire thirty million-immediately."

    Everyone in the room stared at her in disbelief, as if she''d lost her mind.

    For a moment, even Lyman''s lips curled in a faint, approving smile.

    ¡°But.....¡± the bald man stammered, wondering if this was some kind of sick joke. "You don''t have a choice," Effie said, her tone almost casual. "Either do as I say, or I call the police and you both rot in prison. Your call."

    "No-please, ma''am, don''t! I''ll do it!" The bald man nearly dropped to his knees, scrambling for his phone.

    He dialed Vera''s number.

    She picked up right away, her tone anxious and impatient. "Well? Did you get that slut''s nudes yet? Make sure you get her face and... private parts. Strip her down and-"

 Chapter 50

    The bald man''s phone was turned up so loud that every word from Vera was broadcast clearly to everyone in the room.

    Effie clenched her jaw in fury.

    She hadn''t expected Vera to be so vicious, willing to resort to such dirty tricks to get rid of her.

    At this point, the bald man felt not an ounce of sympathy for Vera. His tone was unforgiving. "Vera, if you don''t want this getting out, you''ll wire me three million- right now. Otherwise, we both go down. I''ve got nothing to lose, but you? That''s a different story..."

    Vera was stunned, caughtpletely off guard.

    She forced herself to stay calm. This was not something that could see the light of day. "What the hell is going on?"

    Weren''t they supposed to kidnap that wretched Effie?

    How had this all flipped around to ckmailing her?

    "It''s blown up. Someone saved the woman, and now she''s threatening to call the police. I''m sneaking this call to you. If I go down, I need to make sure my family''s taken care of. So unless you send me three million, I''ll tell them everything about you." The bald man''s threat was cold, deliberate.

    Vera''s knees nearly buckled.

    Damn it!

    How could these two be so utterly shameless?

    She''d already paid them half a million, and now they wereing back for more ¡ªdemanding millions as if her money grew on trees.

    Rage boiled up inside her, and she almost lost herposure.

    "Are you both insane? Didn''t I already pay you five hundred thousand?"

    Goddamn it!

    Did they think she was made of money?

    If they wanted out, fine. Didn''t need them anyway.

    Had they lost their minds from poverty? Why not just rob a bank if they were that desperate?

    She couldn''t believe how unlucky she was to have found these two idiots.

    But Vera didn''t dare let this explode. The scandal would ruin her. And now that her daughter was seeing Mitchell-if she became Mrs. Lloyd, their future would be set.

    So she forced herself to swallow her anger.

    But three million in one go? Vera felt sick just thinking about it.

    "What? Not willing?" The bald man sneered. "I''ve recorded everything you just said. If you don''t pay up, I''ll leak it all. Let''s see if you can still show your face in public. I heard your daughternded herself a wealthy fianc¨¦..."

    Vera was silent.

    Her hand shook, veins bulging with rage.

    She was cursing the man to hell and back in her mind. What kind of monster was this?

    She''d tried to y dirty and ended up getting herself burned.

    She couldn''t risk an all-out confrontation-the fallout would be even worse.

    Taking a deep breath, Vera softened her tone, desperation creeping in. "I... I don''t have that kind of money. I''m just a woman on my own. That five hundred thousand was everything I have, I¡ª"

    "Yeah, right," the bald man spat. "Think I''m that easy to fool? You''re Mrs. Bagnold, aren''t you? Three million is pocket change for a woman like you."

    "You see the fancy life on the outside, but things aren''t as easy as they look," Vera began to y her part, feigning hardship.

    "Cut the crap. You wed your way up as a mistress, didn''t you? You know how to handle men¡ªcan''t you squeeze some more cash out of one of them? And think about your darling daughter. If people find out her mother''s this cruel, do you think her fianc¨¦ will still marry her?"

    "So just pay up and keep my mouth shut. Otherwise, this goes public, and your daughter''s dream of marrying into money will go up in smoke!"

    He''d hit her right where it hurt-Vera''s greatest weaknessid bare.

 Chapter 51

    Vera''s greatest wish these days was for her precious daughter to marry into a wealthy family.

    Now that Suzan had finally managed to get close to Mitchell, Vera was

    determined not to mess things up.

    Still, she couldn''t shake her doubts. Suzan''s rtionship with Mitchell hadn''t been made public yet so how did this kidnapper know about it?

    This was just too strange.

    "What are you talking about? I don''t understand," Vera feigned ignorance, doing her best to act clueless.

    She wouldn''t admit to anything, no matter what.

    The bald man nced at his phone for instructions and sneered. "Is that so? Well, in that case, I''ll just send this recording to the Lloyd family. I wonder what they''ll think when they hear it, Mrs. Bagnold. Are you sure you don''t want to pay up?"

    Vera was so furious she nearly had a heart attack.

    Just her luck to have crossed paths with a monster like this.

    She snapped, "All I have is fifteen million-that''s every penny of my savings." Effie gave the bald man a short nod.

    He gestured and said, "Alright, fifteen million. I''ll send you the ount number now."

    With that, he hung up and promptly texted the bank details.

    Lyman, watching, couldn''t help but ask, "Do you really think she''ll send the money?"

    He''d nned on getting revenge, but Effie clearly had a different idea-she was going to bleed Vera dry.

    "She will. Her biggest dream is to see her daughter marry into the Lloyd family, and nothing matters more to her than money."

    Effie knew exactly where Vera''s weaknessy.

    Vera had wed her way up from being the other woman, but she''d never managed to break into the elite circles of Neo-Arcadia''s society wives.

    Since she couldn''t do it herself, she pinned all her hopes on Suzan.

    From the time Suzan was a little girl, Vera drilled it into her: climb higher, change your fate.

    And now Suzan hadn''t let her down-she''d finally gotten close to the Lloyds.

    So Vera couldn''t afford for anything to go wrong.

    Sure enough, the fifteen million came through almost instantly.

    Ironic, really¡ªit was her own mother''s money.

    Shepard had been so ruthless all those years ago, leaving her mother practically penniless. Now, as far as Effie was concerned, taking a chunk out of Vera''s stash was only fair.

    Effie turned to the two kidnappers, her tone t. "You did help me out, I suppose. In that case, you each get a couple of punches-call it even."

    The two men froze, too stunned to protest, before Lyman''s men dragged them outside for a thorough beating.

    Their agonized screams echoed from the hallway.

    Afterwards, Lyman and Effie headed home together.

    This ordeal had genuinely shaken Lyman. He quietly made arrangements for a bodyguard to shadow Effie-he couldn''t bear the thought of something like this happening again.

    Once she was back, Effie headed straight for a hot shower, hoping to wash away the bad luck.

    She emerged from the bathroom, damp hair draped over her shoulders, droplets trickling down to the floor. A silk nightgown clung softly to her slender figure as she padded into the living room.

    Lyman sat on the couch, sipping a ss of water in small, measured gulps. When he saw Effie, his gaze darkened, Adam''s apple bobbing, before he forced himself to look away.

    Effie grabbed a towel and began drying her hair.

    "Are you really alright?" Lyman''s voice was low and rough, a trace of lingering fear in it.

    Effie''s movements paused. "I''m fine. Vera may be vicious, but thank goodness you showed up."

    "From now on, you have to tell me wherever you''re going," Lyman said, his tone firm.

    "Alright," Effie replied, warmth blooming quietly in her chest.

 Chapter 52

    "Yeah, there''s a charity g this weekend. Would you like to go with me?" Lyman asked.

    Effie hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Sure."

    Their rtionship, after all, couldn''t stay hidden forever.

    ......

    When Suzan walked through the front door, she found Vera furiously smashing things in her bedroom.

    "Mom, what happened?" Suzan rushed over, rmed.

    "Suzan, I''m absolutely livid! The n fell apart and now I''ve been ckmailed out

    of a hefty sum," Vera snapped, recounting the whole ordeal.

    Suzan''s brows shot up in disbelief. "What? Does Effie know?"

    "No, I paid to keep her quiet. Still, I just can''t stomach it. It was such a perfect opportunity!" Vera pressed a hand to her chest, seething with frustration.

    "Don''t worry, Mom. There''s plenty of time ahead." Suzan tried to soothe her. "And besides, Mitchell really cares about me now, so you can rx."

    Vera finally managed a faint smile. "That''s good to hear."

    "Oh, by the way, Mom-there''s a charity g this weekend. Mitchell''s invited me to be his date." Suzan''s face lit up with delight.

    "Really? That''s wonderful! Suzan, you must seize this chance and be Mrs. Lloyd." Vera couldn''t have been more insistent.

    "I know, Mom. I won''t let you down."

    The weekend arrived. The grand ballroom of the Neo-Arcadia Hotel was abuzz with anticipation for the charity g. The city''s elite-socialites and heirs alike¡ª gathered beneath the glittering chandeliers.

    Suddenly, a bright orange Lamborghini screeched to a halt at the entrance. The door swung open, and Mitchell stepped out, offering his hand to Suzan as she gracefully exited the car.

    They made quite the couple-he was the picture of refined charm, while she exuded a gentle, captivating beauty.

    The moment they appeared, all eyes were drawn to them.

    Whispers and murmurs rippled through the crowd.

    "Wow, Mr. Lloyd looks incredible tonight! Who''s his date? Didn''t hee with someone elsest time?"

    "I heard they broke up recently."

    "Typical. Men always want something new."

    "I''ve heard this one''s got sharp elbows. Not someone you want to cross."

    "Just another gold-digger wing her way up. What''s so special?"

    Suzan lifted her chin, basking in the envious stares. For so long, thanks to her mother''s reputation, she''d been looked down on by the other debutantes. But so what?

    Soon, she''d be the one everyone envied-Mrs. Lloyd. Just wait and see.

    Suddenly, an excited gasp swept through the hall. "Look! It''s Lyman-the crown prince himself!"

    Every head turned toward the entrance.

    A rare Rolls-Royce Phantom rolled to a stop, its gleaming body catching the light. The chauffeur opened the door, and out stepped Lyman, dressed in a perfectly tailored ck tuxedo that entuated his tall,manding presence. The room seemed to hush, all attention drawn to him as if the spotlights themselves had shifted in his direction.

    Then, everyone watched in awe as he smiled and extended his hand toward the passenger seat.

    The onlookers could hardly believe their eyes-Lyman Etheridge, the man rumored never to bring a date, was actually escorting someone tonight?

    Everyone held their breath, eager to see what sort of woman could capture Mr. Etheridge''s favor.

    A slender, delicate hand rested in Lyman''s palm. Then, a graceful figure emerged from the car.

    Effie wore a ck evening gown that flowed like water, the fabric skimming her pale skin and highlighting her cool, elegant beauty.

    Her entrance seemed to freeze the air; for a moment, it felt as if the entire ballroom had stopped to take in her presence.

 Chapter 53

    All eyes turned to Effie, and in each gaze was a sh of astonishment.

    She looked breathtaking like a proud white swan, regal and pure, her beauty impossible to ignore.

    Not far away, Mitchell and Suzan had also turned to stare, their faces frozen with not just admiration, but outright shock.

    The heir''s date tonight was... Effie?

    How could that be?

    When did Effie manage to get close to Lyman?

    And now the two of them had arrived together at the party.

    Lyman was famously low-key, rarely attending events like this. Yet here he was, walking in with a date on his arm, leaving everyone utterly stunned.

    Mitchell''s brow furrowed, his gaze flickering between Effie and Lyman, his mind swirling with confusion.

    Effie had always been striking, but tonight she seemed transformed radiant, as if she''d stepped into a new life overnight, impossible to ignore.

    Mitchell found himself wondering when Effie had even met Lyman. Someone of Lyman''s stature was out of reach for most; how had Effie managed this?

    Hadn''t they just broken up? And already she''d found someone new?

    Wasn''t this a little too fast?

    Or had she lined up her next prospect before even breaking things off?

    The thought sent a chill through Mitchell; his dark eyes grew cold, a storm brewing beneath the surface.

    Suzan noticed the change in him, her own expression turning uneasy.

    She saw how Mitchell''s gaze was locked on Effie, and it made her ufortable. Pressing her lips together, she spoke up deliberately, "Your ex really is something, isn''t she? Landing Mr. Etheridge so quickly."

    Mitchell didn''t even respond.

    He watched as Effie and Lyman drew closer, intending to approach them, but quickly realized they were treating him as if he didn''t exist.

    Effie had clearly noticed Mitchell and Suzan, but she didn''t look the least bit surprised. To her, Mitchell was nothing more than an irrelevant ex.

    Smiling faintly, Effie slipped her arm through Lyman''s, and the two made their way inside.

    Mitchell''s hands balled into fists, knuckles turning white as anger simmered beneath his skin.

    Meanwhile, Sigrid had arrived. She''d been chatting with friends, but themotion at the entrance had drawn her attention.

    She and Suzan were already close-simr ages, simr interests, and they''d hit it off right away.

    Sidling up to Suzan, Sigrid whispered, "Suzan, isn''t that Effie? What''s she doing here?"

    Suzan''s eyes lit up at the question, and she whispered back, "That''s her. I didn''t expect it either-Effie just broke up with Mitchell, and she''s already got someone new. She moves fast, but that''s her talent, I suppose."

    Sigrid snorted, her voice low and scornful. "I never realized she was so capable. Just broke up and already found another guy? What a piece of work. She probably cheated on my brother before they even split. Just wait-if she''s made a fool of him, I''ll see to it she pays for it."

    Suzan inwardly rejoiced. Sigrid was impulsive, hot-tempered, and easy to provoke ¡ªjust the spark she needed to stir up drama.

    Sure enough, once Sigrid finished venting, she stormed off toward Effie, fuming. Suzan made a show of trying to stop her, but Sigrid brushed her off, unheeding.

    A sly smile curled at the corner of Suzan''s lips. With Sigrid in the mix, things were bound to get interesting. She didn''t even realize she was being used as a pawn. Sigrid strode up and called out to Lyman.

    "Excuse me, sir. Would you mind stopping for a moment?"

 Chapter 54

    Lyman paused for a moment, then turned around.

    Sigrid was utterly stunned by the sight of his impossibly handsome face.

    Oh my god. This man is gorgeous.

    She could actually hear her own heartbeat pounding in her chest.

    At the same time, the jealousy she felt towards Effie reached its peak.

    Why was Effie so lucky? How did she manage to meet such an extraordinary man?

    Lyman caught the dreamy look in Sigrid''s eyes and frowned slightly. "Can I help you?"

    Sigrid snapped out of her daze, her voice shrill as she blurted out, "Sir, don''t let Effie fool you! She''s not some society darling-she''s just an ordinary woman. My brother just broke up with her, and you''re her next poor victim! She''s vain, maniptive "

    Before Sigrid could finish, Effie raised her hand and pped her hard across the face. "Sigrid, you really have a filthy mouth. Did you eat garbage for breakfast?"

    The p rang out, sharp and clear.

    In an instant, the entire ballroom fell silent. Every eye turned their way.

    Sigrid clutched her cheek, utterly incredulous. "You... you actually hit me?"

    Effie''s voice was cool and unruffled. "That''s right, I pped you. So what? Who told you to spew such filth? Is this the famous Lloyd family upbringing? You just publicly ndered me I could sue you for that, you know."

    "You-!" Sigrid''s eyes filled with angry tears.

    She had never been humiliated like this before.

    Damn Effie. That wretched woman!

    The more Sigrid thought about it, the more wronged she felt. She''d just been smacked in front of everyone, and used of being uncivilized.

    The Lloyds were a respected family, and now she''d lost all dignity.

    Fury zed in Sigrid''s chest as she red at Effie. Suddenly, she lunged, reaching to grab Effie''s hair.

    She was ready to fight to the bitter end.

    But before Sigrid could touch her, Lyman stepped between them.

    He pulled Effie protectively into his arms, his dark eyes cold as steel. "Enough. If

    youy a finger on her, you''ll regret it."

    His voice was icy, every word edged with warning.

    Sigrid flinched, startled, but still unwilling to back down.

    Mitchell had been watching the whole scene. He finally barked, "Sigrid, what on earth are you doing?"

    How much more embarrassment did she want to bring on their family?

    Bitterness twisted in Mitchell''s chest, especially after seeing how fiercely Lyman stood up for Effie.

    What were they to each other? Why did they seem so close?

    A confusing mix of jealousy and doubt flickered in Mitchell''s eyes.

    Lyman''s arm stayed firmly around Effie''s waist, as if making a public deration she belonged to him.

    "Mitchell, how could you take her side?" Sigrid cried, stamping her foot. "I''m your sister!"

    Having been scolded by her brother, Sigrid''s face turned an even deeper shade of red. She bit her lip, her eyes brimming with tears and resentment.

    What had she done wrong?

    All she''d wanted was for people to see what Effie was really like.

    Suzan arrived just in time, gently soothing her, "Sigrid, your brother''s just upset

    right now. Don''t let it get to you. Come on, let''s take a walk in the garden and cool off."

    Suzan sensibly led Sigrid away.

    Mitchell shot her a grateful nce.

    Once Sigrid was gone, Mitchell turned to Lyman, his tone respectful. "Mr. Etheridge, I apologize. My sister acted out of line and caused you trouble."

    Lyman looked at Mitchell with cold indifference. So this was the blind fool who couldn''t see Effie''s worth.

    All the better for him.

 Chapter 55

    "If your sister can''t behave herself, perhaps she should stay home and learn some manners, instead of running around biting people like a rabid dog."

    Lyman''s gaze swept over Mitchell, cold and cutting, the corners of his mouth tugging up in a mocking smirk.

    Mitchell''s expression darkened instantly. His fists clenched at his sides before he could stop himself.

    But he knew better than to cross Lyman. Drawing a deep breath, he forced down his anger and replied, his voice low and icy, "Yes, Mr. Etheridge. You''re right."

    Lyman and Effie paid him no further attention.

    Lyman slipped an arm around Effie''s waist and led her away.

    Mitchell stood watching them go, a bitter ache twisting in his chest, leaving him at a loss for words.

    Lyman felt Effie tense beside him. He looked down, his eyes warm and steady. "Don''t worry," he murmured, "I''m here. If she upset you, I could have someone teach her another lesson-just say the word."

    Effie couldn''t help butugh. "No need. Didn''t you see? I was the one with the upper hand. I even pped her. I''d say I won this round."

    A smile broke over Lyman''s face. His little wife was tougher than she looked.

    Everyone nearby had witnessed the scene, and whispers rippled through the crowd. No one had ever seen Lyman so attentive to a woman before. The way he looked at Effie left no doubt about their closeness. Eyes turned to Effie, now filled with curiosity-and envy.

    Effie carried herself with ease andposure. She''d expected to feel nervous running into Mitchell, but now, looking at him, he seemed like nothing more than a stranger.

    Lyman hardly ever made appearances like this, but as soon as he did, someone pulled him away for a conversation.

    Knowing he had business to handle, Effie offered to stay behind and grab a bite to eat.

    Lyman shot her a quick nce before leaving.

    Effie''s stomach rumbled. She''d heard the desserts here were famous-made by a seven-star French pastry chef flown in for the asion. She helped herself to a slice of mousse cake and savored it slowly.

    Suddenly, a figure stepped in front of her, blocking her view.

    Effie frowned and looked up-straight into Mitchell''s insufferable face.

    Her appetite vanished in an instant. The mousse cake lost all its appeal.

    With a note of annoyance, Effie said, "You know, decent people don''t block the way."

    Mitchell''s face went ck. "Effie, what''s that supposed to mean?"

    "Exactly what it sounds like. You''re in my way." Effie''s tone was cool, her brow furrowed.

    ¡°Mr. Lloyd, please watch yourself. I have nothing to say to you. Kindly move aside."

    Mitchell bristled at her dismissal, his voice rising. "Effie, don''t think you can just ride Lyman''s coattails and be untouchable! I''m telling you, he''s not the guy you think he is. Who knows what he really wants from you?"

    Effie let out a dry, mockingugh. Her words were even, but there was an edge of scorn. "Mitchell, have you forgotten who betrayed whom first? Who I''m with now has nothing to do with you, so maybe keep your opinions to yourself."

    Mitchell''s mouth worked silently. He had noeback, and his expression grew even uglier.

    "Don''t get cocky, Effie. You really think Lyman cares about you? You''re just a fling to him!" Mitchell spat, bitterness sharpening his voice.

    Effie couldn''t be bothered to argue. "Mr. Lloyd, my rtionship with Lyman is none of your business. Maybe you should worry about your own life."

    With that, she stepped around him and walked away.

    Mitchell stood rooted in ce, watching her go, a wave of restless anxiety washing over him for reasons he couldn''t quite name.

 Chapter 56

    He had Suzan now-he''d won her, hadn''t he? So why did watching Effie walk away leave him feeling so hollow inside?

    Why was it like this?

    Lyman was making polite conversation with the others, but his eyes never left Effie. The moment he saw Mitchell move closer to her, a chill shed through his gaze. He took a step as if to intervene, but then Effie, looking thoroughly fed up, turned and walked away on her own. Only then did Lyman breathe a sigh of relief. Clearly, he''d have to keep a watchful eye on Mitchell from now on.

    Hotel garden.

    Suzan stood by the floor-to-ceiling windows, watching Mitchell approach Effie. Her expression was icy, fists clenched so tightly her knuckles turned white-if she could, she would have stormed over and pulled them apart herself.

    But Sigrid was there, so she forced herself to hold back.

    Sigrid saw it too, her voice seething with disgust. "That tramp. She''s already got her hooks in some other guy, and now she still wants to string my brother along? ying both sides-shameless."

    Suzan put on her best hurt, fragile act, eyes reddening as if she might burst into tears at any moment. "Maybe she''s only talking to him to make Mitchell jealous. If they''re still in love, I''d rather step aside."

    "Don''t be ridiculous, Suzan!" Sigrid jumped in, anxious. "My brother cares about you! It''s that Effie, she''s the one who keeps throwing herself at him. You''re the only one I want as my sister-inw, so don''t even think about leaving him!"

    Suzan had won Sigrid over easily enough-she''d been showering her with designer handbags and luxury cosmetics for weeks. Generous to a fault, Suzan had quickly be Sigrid''s favorite, and Adeline was pleased too. A wealthy, beautiful heiress like Suzan-how could she not want her for the family?

    Sigrid was determined not to let this opportunity slip away.

    "Sigrid, I love Mitchell. I don''t want to let him go either, but this isn''t really up to me, is it? What am I supposed to do?" Suzan said, her voice full of wounded innocence.

    "Don''t worry, Suzan. I''ll think of something. I''ll make sure that woman''s reputation

    is ruined for good." Sigrid spat out the words with venom.

    "You have a n?" Suzan tried to hide her delight.

    "Of course. Just wait and see," Sigrid replied, pride swelling in her voice.

    Suzan''s lips curled in a secret little smile.

    Sigrid really was hopelessly na?ve. All it took was a few words, and she was more than ready to fight her battles for her.

    Now, all Suzan had to do was sit back and enjoy the show.

    Don''t disappoint me, Sigrid.

    With another enemy working against Effie, her chances of winning only got better.

    The next morning.

    Effie was up early, already finishing breakfast preparations when Lyman came downstairs.

    He spotted her r¨¦sum¨¦ sitting on the coffee table. "Are you job hunting?" he asked offhandedly.

    Effie nodded. "Yeah, I''ve had some time off. I think I''m ready to start working again."

    "You studied design, didn''t you? Why not apply to The Etheridge Group? We have

    a design department, and we''re hiring right now." Lyman''s tone was casual, almost friendly.

    Effie hesitated. If not for herplicated rtionship with Lyman, she would''ve jumped at the chance. But things were different now. If word got out, people would assume she''d used her connections tond the job, not her talent.

    She paused, uncertain. ¡°I don''t know... Wouldn''t that look bad?¡±

    "What''s there to worry about? Just apply like anyone else. If you get in, it''ll be on your own merit-I know how talented you are." Lyman''s faith in her was obvious; Luther had already done his homework. E&M had only risen to sess thanks to Effie''s designs-a gifted designer was the heart and soul of anypany.

    Mitchell was just too arrogant to see it.

    But reality would teach him a lesson soon enough.

 Chapter 57

    Effie had considered The Etheridge Group before-apany everyone in the industry dreamed of joining.

    But now that she was married to Lyman, she''d hesitated.

    Still, hearing Lyman encourage her now, she couldn''t help but feel a surge of excitement.

    The Etheridge Group wasn''t just a big corporation; their jewelry design branch was an industry leader. Landing a position there would be a dreame true. Taking a deep breath, Effie''s eyes shed with determination.

    Lyman was right. If she truly had the talent, why shouldn''t she go for it? After all, that jewelry designpany had always been her ultimate goal.

    She owed it to herself to try.

    "You''re right. I should go for it." Effie lifted her head, meeting Lyman''s gaze with resolve. "I''ll apply through the normal channels and rely on my own abilities."

    A small, approving smile yed on Lyman''s lips.

    He believed in her he knew she would shine at The Etheridge Group.

    He squeezed her shoulder gently, his voice both warm and firm. "Go for it. I''ll be right behind you."

    Effie nodded, a mix of anticipation and nerves fluttering in her chest.

    But before she could even submit her application, the inte exploded with a shocking scandal.

    Breaking News: Two Identical Entries Discovered at National Jewelry Competition!

    That''s right-two different designers had submitted identical works.

    The judges were furious. "giarism is disgraceful," one dered. "We will investigate thoroughly. Anyone caught stealing designs has no ce in this industry. We must keep our field pure."

    The story spread like wildfire, shared across social media and racking up views until it shot straight to the trending list.

    People were outraged, flooding thements with insults:

    "giarists don''t belong in design!"

    "Anyone who copies is a disgrace to the profession."

    "Entering a stolen design-how desperate can you be for an award?"

    The furor wouldn''t die down. Soon, online sleuths had dug up the names of both designers involved.

    Effie from E&M Group. And Suzan.

    The inte erupted.

    Both from the samepany-which one had copied whom?

    Effie was usually private, rarelypeting and keeping out of the spotlight, so most people didn''t even recognize her name.

    Suzan, on the other hand, loved attention. She was always posting her jewelry creations online, and everyone assumed she was the expert.

    So, predictably, public outrage turned on Effie.

    usations flooded in, calling her a fraud.

    Effie saw the news as soon as it broke.

    Now, she was just waiting for things to unfold.

    Nita, her friend, called immediately, frantic.

    She knew Effie would never steal someone else''s work.

    It had to be Suzan-that backstabbing snake-who''d stolen from Effie.

    Unbelievable.

    But Suzan was cunning and ruthless; Nita worried Effie wouldn''t stand a chance against her.

    "Effie, did you see the news? It''s everywhere!"

    "I did. Don''t worry, I''m fine," Effie replied, calm and unsurprised.

    She sat on the couch, scrolling through the hatefulments, her expression unruffled as if none of it was directed at her.

    Meanwhile, Suzan had seen the news too. Her heart skipped a beat, panic flickering in her chest.

    She hadn''t expected Effie topete after all.

    But so what? Suzan had entered first-and she had proof. When the time came, they''d see who really came out on top.

 Chapter 58

    Suzan quickly regained herposure.

    She had been preparing for this moment all along. In fact, she''d even gone so far as to forge a few design sketches and timelines ahead of time, just to "prove" her originality.

    A cold, mocking smile tugged at her lips as she muttered under her breath, "Effie, this time, I''ll make sure you''re ruined for good."

    Without hesitation, Suzan opened herptop, logged into her social media ount, and posted her so-called evidence for everyone to see. She added a public statement:

    "I''m deeply saddened by the recent controversy in the designmunity.

    As a designer, I have always stood by originality and have zero tolerance for giarism. I reserve the right to pursue legal action against those acting in bad faith.

    I hope everyone can look at this matter rationally and support true original work." Her words sounded righteous and convincing, crafted with perfect logic.

    The post went viral almost instantly, drawing in a flood of viewers andments.

    Suzan''s fans rushed to her defense, sting Effie as a "copycat," with some even demanding Effie be cklisted from the design world.

    "Stay strong, Suzan! We''ll always support you!"

    "Copycats have no ce in design. Effie, get out!"

    Watching the avnche of supportivements, Suzan''s lips curved into a self- satisfied smirk.

    Public opinion was a powerful force. As long as she kept the moral high ground, there was no way Effie could ever recover.

    The situation kept escting, the public debate burning hotter with each passing hour.

    By now, Lyman must have heard about it too. He reached out to Effie right away.

    Effie told him everything.

    Lyman finally let out a breath he''d been holding. "Don''t worry about a thing-just do what you feel is right. I''ve got your back."

    Effie felt a gentle warmth in her chest at his words.

    With Lyman behind her, she wasn''t afraid of anything.

    Just as the uproar reached its peak, a new post quietly appeared online-this

    time with photos and video evidence attached.

    Etheridge Group, CEO''s Office

    Luther reported respectfully, "Mr. Etheridge, Miss Bagnold has posted an update."

    Lyman nodded, his tone resolute. "Boost it. Get it trending."

    "Yes, sir."

    Meanwhile, Effie was ready to face the public and clear the air once and for all.

    She reached out to thepetitionmittee herself, exining everything.

    Themittee took the matter seriously and even organized a press conference to address the issue.

    It was a big deal in the fashion world, drawing a crowd of journalists.

    At exactly 10 a.m., Effie arrived in a simple white dress, standing tall as she faced the barrage of cameras and questions.

    The reporter at the front, bold and sharp-tongued, fired the opening shot. "Miss Bagnold, what''s your response to the usation that you giarized Suzan''s designs?"

    Effie nced at the reporter, then replied calmly, "What evidence do you have to say I copied her work?"

    The reporter was caught off guard, her expression souring as she retorted, "Isn''t it obvious? You haven''t produced any convincing proof to clear your name, and honestly, you don''t seem to have any remarkable work to your credit either."

    Effie let out a coldugh. "Is that how you do journalism? Jump to conclusions without evidence? What if she copied me?"

    The reporter was visibly angered now, her voice rising. "If Suzan really did steal your designs, I''ll get down on my knees and apologize to you in public."

    She had, after all, epted Suzan''s favor, so she was determined to defend her to the bitter end.

 Chapter 59

    Effie gave a faint, confident smile. "Alright, but you''d better be prepared."

    With that, she took out her phone and tapped on the post she''d published earlier.

    Seeing it trending at number one, Effie paused for a second. She immediately thought of Lyman-he must have helped boost it. Otherwise, there was no way her post would rocket to the very top in a split second.

    Her eyes shed with amusement before she turned to address everyone. "Why don''t you all take a look at the top trending post right now? I think you''ll find your answer there."

    The reporters, seeing Effie''s utterposure, exchanged startled nces. If she were really guilty of giarism, she''d be terrified, desperate not to be exposed. But Effie faced them with poise and calm, showing no sign of fear.

    Meanwhile, her post had already set the inte aze. Tens of thousands ofments were pouring in beneath it. But the journalists, focused entirely on Effie, hadn''t checked their phones yet-otherwise, that ridiculous question from earlier wouldn''t have been asked at all.

    Now, prompted by Effie, everyone scrambled to pull out their phones, eager to see the video attached to her post.

    The footage was clear: Suzan, sneaking into Effie''s office, using a USB drive to copy her design files. The video then showed Effie''s original design drafts, detailed records of her creative process, and a timeline that exposed the inconsistencies in Suzan''s forged sketches.

    The evidence was undeniable. In an instant, public opinion flipped.

    Shock and outrage filled the room-so it had been Suzan who giarized Effie''s work all along. The audacity was staggering.

    Suzan, a neer to the design world with only a handful of works to her name, had resorted to such shameless tactics to get ahead. No one had expected a reversal this dramatic.

    Reporters who''d been pressing their microphones forward, aggressive and unyielding moments before, now looked at one another in embarrassment and disbelief. No one could have predicted the truth would turn out like this.

    Suzan, the rising star everyone had been talking about, had tried to frame Effie with such despicable tricks. Anyone who watched the video could see the truth now-there was no longer any doubt about who had copied whom.

    And as if the scandal wasn''t enough, someone online had already dug up more dirt: Suzan had been the other woman in Effie''s previous rtionship, the reason Effie and her boyfriend had broken up.

    One bombshell after another-the revtions just kepting, leaving everyone reeling.

    With evidence this concrete, there was simply no room left for Suzan to defend herself.

    When Suzan saw Effie''s post, rage and panic nearly made her faint. She''d been so sure of her victory, certain that her theft had gone unnoticed. She''d been so smug, believing she''d outsmarted everyone when she copied those files. Little did she know that Effie had set a trap and was waiting for her to walk straight into it. Suzan had watched the press conference, convinced she''d get thestugh and humiliate Effie. Now, it was her own reputation being ground into the dirt.

    At the same time, Suzan''s social media ounts were overrun by furiousmenters. Her feed was flooded with usations and insults.

    "A disgrace to all designers! How dare you giarize and then try to pin it on someone else!"

    "Get out of the industry, Suzan! You don''t deserve to be a designer!"

    "Support for Effie! Original creators will always have our respect!"

    Suzan sat alone in her apartment, her face as pale as a ghost. Her hands

    trembled as she scrolled through the endless barrage of hateful messages, each one a fresh stab of despair.

    She''d thought thispetition would make her a star. Instead, it had ruined her, leaving her in utter ruin.

 Chapter 60

    "How could this happen... How could this possibly happen..." she muttered to herself, her eyes wide with confusion and fear.

    Without wasting a second, Suzan grabbed her phone and dialed Mitchell.

    Meanwhile, the press conference was buzzing with excitement. Someone called out, "Hey, the one who promised to get down on your knees and apologize- now''s your chance! Let''s see your performance!"

    Laughter erupted around the room.

    The reporter who had made the bold im earlier slunk away, red-faced.

    After the conference wrapped up, Effie was getting ready to head home when her phone rang. It was Mitchell.

    "Effie, did you do this on purpose?" Mitchell''s voice was tight with anger, barely restrained.

    Effie''s tone was cool and distant. "I have no idea what you''re talking about."

    Through the line, Mitchell''s frustration bled through. "Don''t y dumb. You knew Suzan was going to steal your designs, didn''t you? You set a trap and let her walk right into it! Effie, when did you be so calcting?"

    He sounded genuinely hurt. The Effie he used to know had always been innocent and open-now, he barely recognized her.

    Effie let out a short, bitterugh, her eyes shing with irony. "Really, Mitchell? Suzan chose to steal my designs. All I did was make sure I was protected. Was I supposed to just sit back and let her destroy my career?"

    It was almostughable that Mitchell would dare to question her like this.

    Honestly, he and Suzan were a perfect match-neither of them had a shred of shame.

    Mitchell faltered, momentarily at a loss for words. But he quickly pressed on, his voice harsh. "You could''ve exposed her sooner. Why wait until now? Do you have any idea how badly Suzan''s being dragged through the mud online right now? You''re ruthless, Effie!"

    "Ruthless?" Effie''s voice turned icy. "Mitchell, have you ever stopped to think that if I hadn''t gathered evidence, I''d be the one being torn apart online right now? My reputation would be in ruins. Isn''t that what you and Suzan were hoping for?"

    Mitchell fell silent.

    He hadn''t considered that. He''d only seen Suzan''s misery and felt a flicker of pity. But the truth was, Suzan had brought this on herself.

    She had no one to me but herself.

    When he stayed quiet, Effie continued, ¡°Mitchell, Suzan dug her own grave. She''d better learn her lesson this time."

    Effie''s words hit their mark, and Mitchell snapped,shing out in his humiliation. "Don''t get smug, Effie. Just because you know Lyman doesn''t mean anything- he''s only having a little fun with you. One day, you''lle crawling back to me."

    Effie gave a soft, dismissiveugh. "Don''t worry. Even if I hit rock bottom, I''d never beg you for anything."

    With that, she hung up.

    A wave of relief washed over her. She was so d she''d ended things with Mitchell.

    Men like him were nothing but trash.

    As she slipped her phone back into her bag, Effie nced up and froze. Not far away, a familiar figure stood waiting.

    He wore a perfectly tailored suit, his posture rxed but confident, his eyes deep and thoughtful-Lyman.

    He''d clearly been standing there for a while. Maybe he''d even overheard her conversation.

    Effie hesitated briefly, then offered him a gentle smile as she walked over. "What are you doing here? I thought you had a meeting today."

    Lyman looked at her, a hint of warmth and mischief in his eyes. "The meeting ended early. I figured I''de pick you up. So did you handle everything?"

    Effie nodded. "It''s done."

    He smiled, reaching out to gently tousle her hair. "Good. Come on. I want to show you somewhere."

 Chapter 61

    "Alright." Effie didn''t press for details. She simply got in the car.

    The ride was smooth and quick; before long, they pulled up outside a riverside restaurant.

    Effie was a little surprised. This was The Gilded Fork, a well-known spot on the north side of town. Nita had rmended it before, but it was a bit of a trek from where they lived, so they''d never made the trip.

    Judging by the packed parking lot, the ce was as popr as ever- reservations were notoriously hard to get.

    But Lyman''s childhood friend, Vinson Elliott, owned the ce. One quick call, and they had the best private room in the house, with a sweeping view of the water.

    The restaurant itself sat right on the riverbank, ssically decorated with an air of understated elegance.

    As Effie stepped inside and caught sight of the wide expanse of river, she couldn''t help but let out a soft exmation.

    The scenery was stunning-the water was veiled in a soft morning mist, the view breathtaking.

    A waiter led Lyman and Effie through doors iid with rich wood, the space inside both timeless and refined.

    Effie''s curiosity bubbled over. She nced around, taking in every detail.

    Two famous paintings hung on the private room''s walls. Effie drew in a sharp breath-the owner really had taste.

    She knew a bit about art herself, and these were originals, worth a fortune.

    Lyman noticed her reaction. "Do you like it here?" he asked.

    Effie nodded. "I love it. It''s really unique."

    "d to hear it." Lyman waved a waiter over to take their order.

    After spending enough time together, Lyman had a good sense of Effie''s taste and already knew what she liked.

    The Gilded Fork happened to serve several of Effie''s favorite dishes.

    He ced the order quickly.

    Effie gazed out at the river, feelingpletely at ease.

    Before the food arrived, she decided to freshen up and excused herself to the restroom.

    She''d barely left when there was a knock at the private room''s door, followed by it swinging open.

    Lyman nced up. Vinson Elliott stood in the doorway.

    Lyman''s brow furrowed slightly, his voice cool. "What are you doing here?"

    "What, I can''t stop by?" Vinson shot back. "Youe to my restaurant and don''t even tell me? I could''ve arranged a proper wee." In truth, Vinson was just nosy.

    He''d overheard a waiter say Lyman was dining with a woman.

    Vinson''s curiosity was piqued.

    A woman?

    Unbelievable. Normally, Lyman avoided women like the gue.

    But here he was, apparently on a date?

    Vinson just had to see for himself who this woman was¡ªsomeone who''d actually managed tond Lyman.

    But after scanning the room, Vinson didn''t see a single trace of a woman. Not even ady''s handbag.

    "What are you looking for? I don''t need your hospitality. Go on, see yourself out," Lyman said tly.

    Vinson''s suspicion grew. Lyman was suddenly so eager to get rid of him¡ª something was definitely up.

    "Lyman, why so tense? I just heard you brought a beautiful woman for dinner and wanted to check it out. Don''t be such a cheapskate," Vinson teased.

    Lyman shot him a frosty look. "What, do you think we''re animals in a zoo, here for your entertainment?"

    Vinson was momentarily at a loss for words. Yeah, something was definitely going

    on.

    Not that he''d dare push his luck with Lyman-he knew better.

    Suddenly, something urred to Vinson. "Oh, by the way, Isabel''sing back from her fellowship. Did you know?"

    Lyman paused, then replied calmly, "No, I didn''t."

    Vinson nodded and dropped the subject.

    But in his mind, he couldn''t help but wonder if Isabel found out Lyman had someone new in his life, who knew what would happen?

    She''d probably hop on the next flight back.

 Chapter 62

    Just thinking about how Isabel would react to Lyman was enough to give anyone

    a headache. If she came back now, all hell would break loose.

    Lyman noticed Vinson Elliott suddenly go quiet. He frowned slightly, his tone still cold. "Anything else?"

    "N-no, nothing else." Vinson Elliott was ready to leave.

    As he turned, he nearly collided with Effie.

    "Sorry!" Effie apologized quickly.

    In truth, she''d returned just as they started talking about "Isabel."

    Isabel? Was this woman''s intuition somehow connected to Lyman?

    But Effie didn''t dwell on it. Their whirlwind marriage had happened so suddenly that she''d never stopped to wonder if Lyman already cared for someone else.

    That thought brought a faint pang of jealousy she hadn''t expected.

    Vinson Elliott was startled too, but when he saw the woman in front of him, he couldn''t help but pause. She was striking-delicate features, a refined air softened by a gentle charm, and those dark eyes, clear and luminous.

    He stared for a moment, wondering, Is this the woman Lyman brought with him? She''s really something. No wonder Lyman''s fallen for her.

    Effie felt his gaze and ducked her head, a little embarrassed. "Sorry, I wasn''t paying attention and bumped into you."

    Vinson Elliott snapped out of it, waving his hand with a sheepish smile. "No, no, it''s my fault for not looking where I was going. But, uh, you are...?"

    He wanted to confirm his suspicion.

    Effie was about to answer when Lyman stepped out from the private room.

    His eyes swept coldly over Vinson Elliott, his voice tinged with impatience. "Why are you still here?"

    Vinson Elliott nearly jumped out of his skin. He forced augh. "I was just about to leave and ran into this youngdy. We were just chatting, that''s all.¡±

    Lyman ignored him and walked straight to Effie, his tone surprisingly gentle. "What took you so long? The food''s all here. Oh, Effie, this is Vinson Elliott-the owner of this ce."

    Effie blinked in surprise, then nodded politely. "Hello, Mr. Elliott. I''m Effie."

    Watching the two of them together, Vinson Elliott''s suspicions were all but confirmed.

    He greeted her warmly, "Nice to meet you, Effie. No need for formalities¡ªjust call me Vinson Elliott. Enjoy your meal. I''ll get out of your hair."

    He figured if he lingered any longer, Lyman would probably re a hole right through him.

    Vinson Elliott couldn''t help butugh at himself. So much for bros before...well, you know. But honestly, seeing Lyman finally smitten was almost worth celebrating.

    He couldn''t wait to spill the news to the guys-they''d be floored.

    After Vinson Elliott left, Lyman and Effie sat down together.

    Effie nced at the table-all her favorite dishes. Lyman was so attentive; she hadn''t even mentioned her preferences, yet he''d picked up on them all.

    She took her seat and started eating, her focus entirely on her meal. And she ate with real appetite, unlike those other women who always acted like birds in Lyman''s presence-barely picking at their food and iming they were full after two bites. It was enough to put anyone off.

    Lyman watched her, a faint smile ying at his lips, and then joined her, eating with his usual elegance.

    Meanwhile, Vinson Elliott, never one to keep juicy news to himself, was already stirring up the group chat, dropping hints to pique everyone''s curiosity.

    When the suspense hit its peak, he finally let it slip: Lyman had finally fallen for someone.

    Even Isabel, studying overseas, heard the news almost immediately. Her expression darkened, and her hands curled into fists.

    She wasn''t about to let this happen.

 Chapter 63

    Because of the giarism scandal, Suzan had be a pariah-no one wanted anything to do with her, and she hadn''t dared to set foot outside in days.

    Mitchell had already pulled some strings to wipe her name from the trending searches, but the damage was done. The story had been out there too long, and too many people had already seen it.

    Worse yet, Suzan was officially cklisted from the designmunity.

    No one wanted to work with a tainted designer. She was finished.

    All that was left for her was to fade into obscurity, working behind the scenes.

    Her dream of being a star designer was shattered.

    When Vera saw her daughter slumped on the couch, looking utterly defeated, she couldn''t help but sigh. "Look at you. Is this really how you want to live?"

    "Mom, can you please stop nagging me? I''m already stressed out enough," Suzan snapped, her tone impatient.

    Vera''s voice grew stern. "You''re going to let one little setback knock you down? You''re really going to let that wretch Effie get to you? Are you even my daughter?"

    She''d spoiled Suzan too much, made her na?ve and soft.

    Suzan rolled her eyes. "Then what do you want me to do, Mom? I can''t be a designer anymore. My career''s over."

    Vera scoffed. "So what if you can''t be a designer? You''ll inherit your father''s business one day. And don''t forget¡ªyour most important goal right now is to be Mrs. Lloyd. Focus on winning Mitchell over. Make him fall for you, and get on his mother''s good side, too."

    She spoke earnestly, as if passing down the secrets to life.

    Suzan hesitated, then nodded. Right-her real goal was to be Mrs. Lloyd.

    Forget being a designer. Who cared about that anymore?

    Her gloom evaporated; she straightened up, energized. "You''re right, Mom. I get it now."

    "That''s more like it. You''ve been cooped up here long enough. The scandal''s dying down-go out, get some fresh air, do some shopping."

    "Okay, I''ll get ready." Suzan''s spirits were already lifting.

    She knew that the giarism mess had changed the way Mitchell looked at her. He was helping her with the fallout, but she''d made things worse with her own clumsy handling.

    So she didn''t dare act spoiled around him anymore.

    But remembering her mother''s words, Suzan realized she couldn''t just wait around for things to fix themselves. She had to fight for what she wanted.

    After some thought, she decided her best move was to start with Adeline, Mitchell''s mother.

    Suzan had noticed that Mitchell respected Adeline''s opinions. Whenever something important came up, he''d always listen to her.

    So, the next morning, Suzan got the Lloyd family''s housekeeper to tell her where Adeline would be going that day. She spent extra time getting ready, dressed to impress, and arrived early at the mall.

    She was counting on a "chance" encounter.

    Adeline hadn''t been shopping in a while. The day before, her favorite boutique had called¡ªthey''d just gotten a new collection in, and she wanted to check it out.

    She hadn''t expected to run into Suzan.

    "Aunt Adeline! What a coincidence, seeing you here," Suzan greeted her, voice dripping with honey.

    "It really is, Suzan. You look busy these days-you''ve lost weight," Adeline replied warmly. She didn''t follow the news or social media, preferring to spend her time having tea, ying cards, or shopping with other societydies.

    She had no idea about Suzan''s recent scandal.

    Suzan rxed, relieved that Adeline didn''t seem to know what had happened. She smiled, keeping herposure. "Yes, work''s been hectictely."

    Since they''d bumped into each other, it only made sense to shop together.

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    So the two of them began to browse through the racks.

    Suzan had a sharp eye for these things. Whenever Adeline fancied something, Suzan would immediately step forward and pay for it herself.

    She understood the saying: you have to spend money to make money.

    After all, her father had given her a high-limit credit card-she could swipe it as much as she wanted.

    She figured it was an investment, and every penny was worth it.

    Adeline noticed all this and was quite pleased.

    This, she thought, was the generosity of old money¡ªso different from Effie, who always gave off that tacky, small-minded vibe.

    Of course, Adeline conveniently forgot that Effie had gifted her plenty of designer brands and luxury cosmetics over the years.

    But Adeline had always looked down on Effie and never bothered to remember her kindness.

    They continued strolling through the designer boutiques.

    As soon as they stepped inside, a sales associate caught the scent of money and hurried over to greet them. "Madam, wee in! These are ourtest pieces¡ª elegant and refined. I think they''d suit you perfectly."

    The salesperson''s eyes lit up at the sight of Adeline and Suzan, both decked out in high-endbels.

    Especially Adeline-her jewelry sparkled, and her entire presence screamed wealth.

    "Auntie, try these two dresses," Suzan said, handing over a pair of gowns. "I think they really suit your style."

    In truth, Suzan''s heart ached a little. She''d already spent a small fortune-far more than she''d ever splurge on herself.

    But she had no choice. She needed Adeline''s approval, and badly.

    If she could be Mrs. Lloyd in the future, she wouldn''t have to worry about money ever again.

    For now, she was careful not to spend Mitchell''s money-unless he insisted on buying her jewelry or handbags himself.

    And, to be fair, she always made sure to return the favor.

    Adeline took the dresses and headed toward the fitting room.

    Just then, a sales associate near the door eximed, delighted, "Mrs. Etheridge, you''re here! We were just about to send the new collection to your house for you to browse at your leisure."

    Mrs. Etheridge?

    Adeline turned to the entrance and saw Lindy Etheridge.

    Lindy wore a te-blue dress paired with a ssic handbag, radiating poise and quiet luxury.

    Her very presence announced her as a woman of means.

    Lindy Etheridge rarely went out; she preferred tending her garden and painting at home, and had little interest in shopping.

    Every season, the fashion houses delivered their newest collections straight to her door, giving her first pick.

    She came from an old, cultured family-well-educated, graceful, and serene. After marrying Friedman, she''d been utterly spoiled, living a life of ease and privilege that let her keep an air of innocence even now.

    Though nearly fifty, she looked a solid decade younger.

    Many people wanted to get close to Lindy, but she kept her distance, making only brief appearances at the asional social gathering.

    She was always polite but reserved, never overly warm.

    Lindy understood her own position-she knew plenty were eager to cozy up to her, and she had no interest in inviting trouble.

    Birds of a feather stick together, after all.

    Still, plenty of people racked their brains trying to find a way into her inner circle.

    Adeline''s eyes lit up when she saw her and she quickly stepped forward, smiling. "Mrs. Etheridge, it''s been ages!"

    Lindy paused, then replied coolly, "Mrs. Lloyd, hello. What a coincidence."

    Her tone made it clear she wasn''t keen to chat.

    Before Adeline could continue, Lindy waved toward the doorway and called out with a warm smile, "Effie, over here!"

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    "Effie?"

    The name caught Mrs. Lloyd''s attention. She followed Lindy''s gaze and, a momentter, spotted a familiar figure.

    Effie.

    Mrs. Lloyd''s brow furrowed in surprise-what on earth was Effie doing here?

    "Hey, I''m back. See anything you like?" Effie had just returned from the restroom and entered the boutique a bitter than the others.

    Earlier that morning, Lindy had called and invited Effie out for a day of shopping. Of course, Effie was delighted to ept. Lindy was easy to get along with, never putting on airs as a mother-inw, and being around her always felt light and effortless.

    At first, Effie had been a little awkward around Lindy, but after a few shared dinners at the family home, they had grown asfortable as old friends. Lindy doted on Effie; whenever she found something delicious or stylish, Effie was always the first person she thought of.

    Even Lyman had noticed, half-joking that he didn''t feel like the real child in the family anymore. Still, he was genuinely happy to see them getting along so well.

    When Effie entered the boutique and saw Mrs. Lloyd standing next to Lindy, she paused for a heartbeat. Of all the people and all the stores, they just had to run into each other here?

    But their paths had long since diverged. Now, they were nothing more than strangers who happened to share some history. Effie reminded herself that was all she needed to feel.

    She wore a light touch of makeup today and a champagne-colored dress-refined and understated, with a subtle elegance. The dress wasn''t from a famous designer, but its quality was unmistakable, rivaling any luxurybel.

    Still, Mrs. Lloyd''s lips curled in a sneer as she took in Effie''s appearance. In her eyes, Effie was still the same penniless girl-probably even worse off now that she''d left her son.

    Mrs. Lloyd stood there, brimming with condescension, clearly waiting to see Effie embarrass herself.

    Effie could only roll her eyes inwardly. She knew Mrs. Lloyd''s attitude all too well -the woman had never thought much of her, and that wasn''t about to change now. Effie simply chose to ignore her.

    She quicklyposed herself, letting a gentle smile settle on her lips, and walked over to Lindy''s side.

    Lindy beamed and gave Effie''s hand a warm, reassuring squeeze. "There you are ¡ªI was just waiting for you. I thought this dress would look stunning on you. Want to give it a try?"

    She pointed to a pale blue dress nearby-simple in design, yet elegant and timeless.

    Effie nodded. "Sure, I''ll go try it on."

    She took the dress, her gaze briefly meeting Mrs. Lloyd''s. The woman was staring at her in open shock, as if she couldn''t believe what she was seeing.

    Without another word, Effie disappeared into the fitting room.

    Mrs. Lloyd watched her go, her frown deepening. How did Effie end up here with Lindy? And judging by the way they interacted, they seemed awfully close.

    Unable to resist her curiosity, Mrs. Lloyd turned to Lindy. "Mrs. Etheridge, that young woman... is she?"

    Lindy smiled, her tone warm and casual. "Oh, that''s my darling Effie. She''s such a thoughtful girl-I absolutely adore her."

    "Darling?" Mrs. Lloyd echoed, taken aback. That... wasn''t the answer she''d expected. What exactly was the rtionship here? There was no way Effie could be her daughter-inw, right? Lyman, with his pedigree, would never go for someone like Effie.

    Maybe Effie had convinced Mrs. Etheridge to be her godmother-that would make sense. Effie was clearly more cunning than she''d realized, managing to ingratiate herself with Lindy like this.

    Mrs. Lloyd made a mental note: she''d have to find a moment to warn Effie not to say anything foolish around Mrs. Etheridge.

    Just then, Effie stepped out of the fitting room. The pale blue dress set off her fair skin and gentle demeanor perfectly.

    Lindy''s eyes lit up in delight. "You look wonderful! Effie, that dress is made for you!"

    Effie gave a small, graceful twirl and smiled. "I think so too. You have great taste."

    Lindy nodded, clearly pleased, and turned to the shop assistant. "We''ll take this one-please wrap it up for us."

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    Mrs. Lloyd stood off to the side, watching the warm, affectionate exchange between Effie and Lindy, her emotions a tangled mess of envy and resentment.

    Suzan''s eyes widened with surprise. She didn''t know Lindy, but seeing Mrs. Lloyd treat her with such deference, she guessed Lindy must be someone of real standing.

    Mrs. Etheridge!

    Could this be the famously low-profile matriarch of the Etheridge family¡ªthe wealthiest family in Neo-Arcadia?

    That thought sent a rush of uncertainty through Suzan, and she eyed Effie with newfound suspicion.

    Meanwhile, Mrs. Lloyd was treating Effie as if she were invisible, not even bothering to spare her a nce.

    Wasn''t she a senior, too? Mrs. Lloyd''s irritation doubled at the thought.

    Suzan, ever perceptive, noticed Mrs. Lloyd''s sour mood. She quickly grabbed a cup of tea and walked over. "Auntie, we''ve been shopping for ages. You must be tired. Why don''t you sit down and have some tea?"

    This high-end boutique had a full spread-tea, fruit tters, and premium snacks -allplimentary for customers.

    Mrs. Lloyd''s mood lifted almost instantly. She smiled and said, loud enough for others to hear, "Suzan really knows how to take care of people. She''s not only lovely but also so considerate of her elders. Our Mitchell is lucky to have her- unlike some people, who clearly missed out on basic manners."

    Mrs. Lloyd''s pointed gaze lingered on Effie. Lindy, catching the subtext, remembered hearing that Effie''s ex-boyfriend happened to have thest name Lloyd.

    Realization dawned on Lindy. Was Mrs. Lloyd so intent on these not-so-subtle digs because Effie was her precious daughter-inw''s rival?

    Well, Lindy wasn''t about to let anyone bully Effie.

    "Mrs. Lloyd, and this youngdy is...?" Lindy gestured toward Suzan.

    Mrs. Lloyd answered with obvious pride, "This is my son''s girlfriend. Isn''t she a sweetheart?"

    "Mmm, she is. Just like Effie here-thoughtful, capable, beautiful, and always looking out for me. Sometimes I think she''s even more attentive than my own son. We''re both truly blessed, aren''t we?" Lindy replied with a warm smile.

    Mrs. Lloyd froze for a moment, then forced augh. "Yes... of course."

    Lindy saw no need to continue the conversation. Life was too short for pointless small talk.

    She turned to Effie. "Shall we keep looking?"

    Effie smiled. "Mom, I picked out two dresses for you. Why don''t you try them on?" She handed the clothes over.

    After spending so much time together, Effie knew Lindy''s style and preferences inside out. She always started by checking color and cut, then moved on to fabric and texture before making her choices.

    "Wonderful! I''ll go try them right now. I trust your tastepletely." Lindy beamed and headed for the fitting room.

    As soon as Lindy disappeared, Mrs. Lloyd snorted and sneered at Effie. "Well, aren''t you clever, Effie? Twisting Mrs. Etheridge around your little finger. Aren''t you worried she''ll eventually see who you really are?"

    Effie''s reply was calm and unflinching. "Mrs. Lloyd, I have nothing to hide. You don''t need to worry about me."

    "Hmph! Thank goodness Mitchell broke things off with you. Anyone who ends up with you is doomed."

    By the end, Mrs. Lloyd was practically cursing her.

    Effie let out a cold chuckle. "Well, we''ll just have to wait and see, won''t we?"

    Let''s see who ends up unlucky in the end. Clearly, they still had no idea what Suzan was really like.

    Lindy soon emerged from the fitting room, absolutely glowing. She adored Effie''s taste; every dress was a perfect match. The pale blue gown with its subtle floral pattern looked elegant and refined, perfectly highlighting Lindy''s graceful aura- everyone in the boutique couldn''t help but notice.

    By contrast, Mrs. Lloyd stood awkwardly with two brightly colored dresses Suzan had chosen-both loud and garish,cking any sense of ss.

    It was no contest. The winner was obvious, and Mrs. Lloyd''s bravado crumbled in an instant.

 Chapter 67

    Lindy was in high spirits. She never had a daughter of her own, but her daughter- inw had filled that gap in her heart perfectly.

    She ended up picking out two more outfits-it truly felt like a sessful shopping spree.

    Across the store, Mrs. Lloyd caught sight of herself in the mirror. Though she was dressed head-to-toe in designerbels, standing next to Lindy, she looked like a nouveau riche wannabe. There was no denying it; her taste simply couldn''tpare.

    Especially when it came to the two outfits Suzan had chosen for her gaudy, mismatched colors that made her head ache just from looking at them.

    Suddenly, even Suzan started to grate on her nerves.

    Suzan noticed Mrs. Lloyd''s darkening expression and wisely kept quiet.

    Inwardly, Suzan fumed. This old woman is impossible to please.

    But when she thought of Mitchell, she swallowed her frustration.

    Lindy and Effie left the store chatting andughing, and Mrs. Lloyd was left fuming. Effie was really bing a thorn in her side. How did that girl manage to charm Lindy so easily?

    Mrs. Lloyd spun around, tossed the clothes in her hands back onto the rack, and stormed off in a huff.

    Suzan didn''t dare say a word. She''d hoped to curry favor with Mrs. Lloyd, but somehow she''d only made things worse.

    This was all Effie''s fault. If she hadn''t run into her, none of this would have happened. What rotten luck.

    The drama of the jewelrypetition had finally faded.

    A few dayster, Effie carefully prepared her r¨¦sum¨¦ and submitted it to Etheridge & Co. Jewels.

    She didn''t have to wait long for a response: an interview invitationnded in her inbox.

    On the day of her interview, Effie dressed smartly in a crisp, understated business suit. She carried her portfolio of designs as she entered the headquarters of The Etheridge Group.

    At the lobby, she walked up to the front desk with a polite smile. "Good morning, I''m here to interview for a designer position."

    The receptionist gave Effie a once-over, her eyes betraying a hint of disdain.

    Effie stood with quiet confidence, her outfit intentionally simple for the asion.

    "Do you have an appointment?" the receptionist asked.

    "Yes, I''ve already spoken with HR.¡±

    "Alright, then. Please wait here."

    Just then, the sharp click of heels echoed across the marble floor. A woman swept into the lobby: a striking figure in a fitted white skirt and a red silk blouse, her makeup wless, her curves entuated with every step. She moved as if she owned the ce.

    The receptionist straightened up and greeted her respectfully, "Morning, Nelly."

    "Morning," Nelly replied coolly. She gave Effie a cursory nce, her tone dripping with condescension. "Since when do we let just anyone in here?¡±

    "Nelly, thisdy''s here to interview for a designer role."

    Nelly snorted. "Is the bar really so low now? Just anybody can walk in and apply? What''s HR thinking, inviting every random stray for an interview?"

    With that, she sashayed off, exuding attitude with every step.

    Effie couldn''t help but let out a small, incredulousugh. So this is the corporate world-ruthless,petitive, and full of intrigue. Landing this job was going to be a challenge.

    But she was ready for it.

    She wasn''t some na?ve fresh graduate, after all.

    Once the receptionist made the call upstairs, Effie took the elevator up for her interview.

    Her interviewer turned out to be the head of the jewelry design department, a sharp, no-nonsense woman in her forties. She paged through Effie''s portfolio, her brow furrowing in concentration.

    "Your designs are very creative," the director finally said, looking up with a piercing gaze. "Especially these pieces here-the lines are fluid, and the style is distinctive."

 Chapter 68

    "Our firm sets a high bar for designers-not just in terms of creative skills, but also market awareness and the ability to work within a team. Do you think you''re up to the challenge?"

    Effie smiled calmly, herposure unshaken.

    "I''m confident I can handle it. I value not just the aesthetics of design, but also take market needs and client feedback seriously. As for teamwork, I''ve always believed that great design is the result of collective intelligence. I look forward to growing with the team."

    The director nodded, apparently satisfied with her answer.

    A few more technical questions followed, and Effie handled each one with poise and professionalism.

    Once the interview wrapped up, Effie walked out of The Etheridge Group''s ss doors and let out a deep breath.

    Now all she could do was wait.

    Since it was still early, she picked up some fruit and decided to visit her grandmother.

    Lately, her grandmother and the neighbor next door had be inseparable. The two of them often strolled to the park to watch people dancing, thoroughly enjoying their days together.

    It was afort to Effie, seeing her grandmother so content.

    A few dayster, the call came-Effie hadnded the job at The Etheridge Group.

    She''d made it. She was officially a designer at Etheridge & Co. Jewels.

    That evening, when Lyman came home, Effie could hardly wait to tell him the

    news.

    He didn''t look especially surprised, just smiled with quiet pride. "I knew you could do it."

    Effie grinned back, a sense of anticipation swelling inside her. She was determined to make her mark in this new role.

    The next morning, after breakfast, she put on a fresh, natural makeup look. She wore wide-legged trousers and a crisp white blouse, giving her an elegant, sophisticated air.

    When Lyman saw her, his gaze lingered a little longer than usual.

    They left the house together, but Effie had him drop her off at the corner just before thepany building.

    Lyman chuckled, shaking his head. He knew Effie''s principles-she wanted to keep work and personal life separate.

    Effie walked the rest of the way, arriving early.

    At reception, the front desk staff did a double take when they saw her.

    She must really be something-they hadn''t expected anyone to breeze through the interview process so easily.

    After all, getting a job at The Etheridge Group took real talent. Even the receptionists had gone through rounds of assessments, let alone designers.

    The design department here was one of the best in the industry. People would give anything to get a foot in the door.

    So this time, the receptionist looked at Effie with a touch of awe.

    Effie headed straight to the design office.

    The director had already set up her workspace.

    Soon after, Nelly walked in and spotted Effie. She frowned in disbelief.

    So this woman actually got the job?

    What''s her story?

    Now she was going to be colleagues with her?

    A few minutester, the director called everyone over for introductions. "Everyone, this is Effie, our new designer. I hope you''ll make her feel wee and help each other grow."

    Effie gave a modest nod. "I''m honored to join the team-please guide me as I settle in."

    Everyone apuded her arrival-everyone except Nelly.

    Nelly was a senior designer with a string of awards to her name, and she carried herself with an air of superiority. The director usually let her attitude slide as long as she didn''t cross the line.

    But seeing how effortlessly beautiful Effie was, Nelly felt a pang of annoyance.

    She''d always been the star of the design department.

    Now, with Effie around, that spotlight felt a lot dimmer.

    Tch. There''s no way she''d let this neer have it easy.

    Nelly couldn''t help herself. "So, they''re hiring anyone with a diploma from a no- name college these days?"

 Chapter 69

    Everyone froze for a moment.

    Sure, they''d all had their doubts, but nobody else had dared to voice them so bluntly.

    Then, as if on cue, the memory surfaced for them all-Effie was the same woman who''d been at the center of that giarism controversy during a recentpetition, the one who''d trended on social media. The investigation had cleared her name, but that didn''t automatically make her a star in their eyes.

    After all, the design department was packed with talent; it wasn''t easy to stand out. For Effie to join straight away as lead designer? Naturally, some people would feel a bit resentful.

    The department head''s expression hardened when she heard Nelly''s words had gone too far. She said sternly, "Nelly, we''re all colleagues here. Let''s not say things that create division."

    Nelly forced a sheepish smile. "Sorry, ma''am. I sometimes speak before I think." She nced at Effie afterwards, her eyes full of disdain.

    Effie felt exasperated, but she understood-this was just how the workce worked.

    "All right, to wee our new teammate, let''s go out to dinner after work," the department head announced. Instantly, the whole room broke into cheers.

    Fantastic-another free meal.

    Effie felt genuinely grateful to her boss. It would help her break the ice and get to know everyone faster.

    Since it was her first day, Effie spent most of it familiarizing herself with the office and learning about thepany''s design style and products.

    Toward the end of the day, Effie sent a quick text to Lyman, letting him know about the department dinner that night.

    Lyman was still in a meeting, but as soon as he saw her message, he replied with a simple "Okay."

    He then turned to Luther and told him to arrange for the design team to dine at an upscale restaurant-on thepany''s tab.

    When the team found out where the dinner would be, everyone was stunned.

    None of them had ever been to such a fancy ce before.

    They allughed and joked that they were riding on Effie''s coattails tonight.

    Nelly, her tone dripping with sarcasm, piped up, "Well, the higher-ups must''ve finally noticed how hard we''ve been working and decided to reward us."

    No one contradicted her, but everyone found it odd this kind of treatment was definitely a first.

    And the food! Each dish looked like a work of art and tasted just as good. No wonder The Etheridge Group was the industry leader-they certainly took care of their employees.

    Everyone was having a great time.

    Coincidentally, Lyman was also entertaining business partners at the same hotel that evening.

    Was this just a happy ident, or had he nned it?

    Lyman knew Effie loved seafood, so he''d instructed Luther to make sure their private room was treated to the best-lobster, jumbo shrimp, fresh fish, and more.

    When Luther walked in with the servers, carrying tters of seafood, jaws dropped all around the table.

    "Mr. Etheridge is here for a business dinner tonight," Luther exined smoothly. "He heard your department was having a wee dinner for your new teammate, so he asked me to send over some seafood for you all. You''ve been working so hard-you deserve it."

    No one questioned it; they were just thrilled.

    After all, it wasn''t every day the CEO himself sent them such a treat. Mr. Etheridge was known for being reserved and understated¡ªa real enigma.

    Especially Nelly-her eyes lit up as she pressed her lips together, clearly scheming about something.

    All around, her colleagues were buzzing in excitement.

    "Oh my God, Mr. Etheridge actually sent us extra food! Look at this lobster-we could never afford this on our own!"

    "I know, right? He''s always so distant, but who knew he''d be so generous to the design team? I feel so lucky!"

    "Seriously, Effie''s our good luck charm. We''ve never had this kind of treatment before!"

    The chatter filled the room.

    Effie, meanwhile, felt a pang of anxiety, worried that someone might see through to her real connection here. She''d just started the job and wanted nothing more than to fit in.

    So, even with all those sumptuous seafood dishes in front of her, Effie found she barely tasted a thing.

 Chapter 70

    In the end, she quietly sent Lyman a message, telling him not to order any more food for the group and that she''d make her own way home when things wrapped

    up.

    When Lyman saw her text, he couldn''t help but let out a helpless littleugh.

    Was he really someone who needed to be kept a secret?

    Most women would love to show off a sessful husband, to let everyone know they had someone powerful in their corner. But only Effie preferred to keep things so understated.

    Then again, maybe that was exactly why he saw her differently from everyone else.

    Tucking her phone away, Effie finally felt herself rx a little.

    After dinner, she said goodbye to everyone and caught a cab home.

    When she got back, Lyman still wasn''t there he was out at a business dinner. Effie took a shower, and just as she stepped out, she heard the front door open.

    She hurriedly threw on a robe and came out to the hallway.

    "Mrs. Etheridge, Mr. Etheridge had a bit too much to drink," Luther said, looking a little awkward as he helped Lyman inside.

    Effie''s heart tightened at Luther''s words, and she quickly walked over.

    Lyman was leaning heavily on Luther''s shoulder, cheeks tinged pink, eyes unfocused-he''d clearly had more than just a drink or two.

    "How did you end up drinking so much?" Effie frowned, her voiceced with worry. Normally, Lyman knew his limits.

    Luther replied, a little helpless, "The people at dinner kept pushing drinks on him tonight. Mr. Etheridge couldn''t refuse, so he ended up having a few more."

    Effie nodded and said softly, "Luther, could you help him over to the sofa? I''ll take care of him from here."

    Luther looked relieved and quickly nodded. "Of course, ma''am. I''ll leave Mr. Etheridge in your hands, then."

    Effie murmured her thanks, and Luther quietly slipped out.

    Lyman slumped onto the sofa, his voice rough. "Effie..."

    "I''m here," she answered gently. "Sit down, I''ll get you some water."

    But Lyman shook his head, reached out, and caught her hand. There was a stubbornness in his tone. "Don''t go..."

    Effie froze for a moment, her heart skipping as she looked into his drunken but still intense eyes.

    She soothed him softly, "I''m not going anywhere. Just let me get you some water, I''ll be quick."

    Only then did Lyman release her, and Effie hurried to the kitchen.

    As she turned away, Lyman''s eyes suddenly cleared; the deep, obsidian gaze

    was sharp and sober, not a trace of drunkenness left. He watched her retreating figure in silence, a faint, secretive smile tugging at the corner of his lips.

    Effie poured a ss of honey water and grabbed a damp washcloth before heading back to the living room.

    She handed Lyman the ss and said quietly, "Drink some water, it''ll help.¡± Lyman took the ss, drank a few sips, and set it on the coffee table.

    Effie gently dabbed his forehead and cheeks with the washcloth, her movements tender and careful.

    Lyman leaned back, eyes closed, letting her fuss over him. Gradually, his breathing evened out and the flush on his face faded a little.

    "Effie..." he murmured suddenly, his voice low and husky.

    She paused, concern in her tone. "What is it? Are you feeling unwell?"

    "How much longer do I have to wait?" His deep voice caught her off guard, leaving her cheeks burning.

    She stammered, "You''re drunk... um... not much longer now..."

    "You promised," he insisted, sounding almost like a little boy, still clinging to her hand.

    Effie couldn''t help but smile as she soothed him, "I won''t go back on my word."

    Out of her sight, Lyman''s lips curved into a tiny, satisfied smile.

    If he''d known that ying drunk would earn him such sweet attention, he would''ve tried it much sooner.

 Chapter 71

    The next morning, when Lyman woke up, Effie was already in the kitchen, finishing up breakfast.

    She nced over as he stepped out, offering him a warm smile. "Come have something to eat. You drank a bit too muchst night, so I made you some soup this morning. It''s easy on the stomach."

    Lyman couldn''t help but smile back. "I''m sorry to trouble you."

    "It''s no trouble at all." Effiedled a bowl of the creamy soup and set it in front of him.

    Lyman looked down at the simple meal. The soup was thick and velvety, clearly simmered for a long time. A sudden wave of gratitude rose in his chest.

    He sat down and began to eat, his movements graceful andposed.

    To go with the soup, Effie had also prepared some crisp pickled cucumbers and fried eggs.

    Lyman ate with genuine enjoyment, every bite bringing a littlefort. Seeing this, Effie finally rxed.

    When breakfast was done, Lyman spoke up. "Let the driver take you to the office today. I have a business trip-should be back in two or three days."

    Effie blinked in surprise at first, then quickly recovered. "It''s fine, I can just call a cab."

    ¡°No need,¡± Lyman replied. ¡°Luther will pick me up for the airport anyway."

    Time was tight. He gave her a few quick instructions, packed a couple of changes of clothes, and was gone.

    Effie headed to the office and officially started her first day of work.

    Thepany assigned her a young assistant, Shirley. "Ms. Bagnold, if you have any questions, feel free to ask me."

    Effie smiled. "Thank you. Go ahead with your work-I''ll check my emails first."

    Usually, department heads sent assignments by email.

    "Of course," Shirley replied before heading out.

    Effie dove into her tasks.

    Around noon, her phone rang. Shepard''s name shed on the screen.

    Her first instinct was to ignore it, but she knew her father-if she hung up, he''d just keep calling until she answered.

    Resigned, she picked up. "What is it?" Her voice was cool and distant.

    "I''m your father, not your enemy," Shepard said, his tone stern as ever.

    "Sorry, but I''m past the age where I need a father''s affection," she shot back, in no mood for pleasantries.

    "Ungrateful child!" Shepard snapped, but quickly got to the point. "Your grandmother''s birthday celebration is this weekend. Don''t forget toe home." Her grandmother-Selma Bagnold-had always doted on Effie, and the feeling was mutual. But the olddy had grown reclusive in recent years, preferring peace and quiet in the countryside, surrounded by books and thefort of her small chapel. She only returned to the city for her birthday each year.

    Effie paused. Grandmother''s birthday? How could she have forgotten something so important?

    "All right, I''ll be there," Effie replied, her voice calm.

    She wasn''t fond of the rest of the Bagnold family, but her grandmother had always been kind to her. When Shepard betrayed her mother, bringing Vera home, Selma had been furious-so much so that she nearly suffered a heart attack. But Shepard was stubborn, almost bewitched by Vera, and insisted on marrying her. After Effie''s mother, Adriana, left with Effie, Selma couldn''t bear to watch the family fall apart. She withdrew from the household, seeking sce in solitude and prayer, and rarely returned-just to avoid seeing Shepard and Vera under the same roof.

    When the call ended, Effie thought about the birthday celebration. She couldn''t be caught unprepared.

    She immediately picked up her phone again. "Nn, I need you to help me prepare a gift for my grandmother. Something special."

    The guest list would be long, and appearances mattered-she couldn''t let anyone have reason to gossip behind her back.

    Nn Bagnold was a young man in his early twenties whom Effie had once

    helped. He''d had no name when she met him, so she''d given him one: Nn.

 Chapter 72

    He was clever and capable; these days, Effie entrusted most of her affairs to him, knowing she could always count on him.

    Once everything was arranged, Effie finally felt at ease.

    Since Lyman was still out of town for business, she hadn''t mentioned any of this to him. Besides, his position was rather unique, and their marriage had been quite unexpected. Thest thing Effie wanted was to cause Lyman any trouble.

    She knew Shepard well-if he ever found out she was married to Lyman, he''d stoop to all sorts of shameless antics.

    Shepard was nothing if not thick-skinned. Effie knew his type all too well.

    Before she knew it, the weekend had arrived.

    The Bagnold family was one of the city''s most prominent old families, so Selma''s birthday celebration was a grand affair. Guests arrived in droves, each carrying a gift to pay their respects.

    Selma herself wore an elegant deep red evening gown, adorned with a set of exquisite emerald jewelry. She looked energetic and regal, seated in the ce of honor, her eyes fixed on the entrance.

    Effie slipped into a simple, tasteful dress and drove to Bagnold Mansion. The ancestral home was as imposing as ever, with luxury cars lining the driveway-a testament to the distinguishedpany gathered inside.

    Taking a deep breath, Effie stepped out of her car and walked through the grand doors that felt both familiar and strange after all this time.

    The moment she entered, she spotted Shepard and Vera holding court near the foyer, exuding all the airs of a master and mistress of the house. Vera was dressed to the nines in avish gown, her arm looped through Shepard''s, greeting guests with a bright, practiced smile.

    As soon as Vera caught sight of Effie, her smile faltered for just a moment before she recovered herposure.

    "Well, look who''s here! Effie, Lady Selma was just asking about you," Vera called out, feigning warmth.

    Perfect, the little tramp actually showed up. Vera had been worried Effie wouldn''te, but now she could finally put her little n into action. She wasn''t about to waste such a golden opportunity.

    Soon, everyone would see Effie''s reputation torn to shreds. Just thinking about it sent a flicker of satisfaction across Vera''s face.

    Effie simply nodded and offered no more than a curt greeting before making her way toward Selma.

    "Grandma, I''m here," she said gently.

    Selma''s face lit up with genuine affection. "Effie, you made it! Come, let me have a good look at you."

    Effie stepped forward, and the olddy sped her hands with excitement, her eyes brimming with love. "You''re getting thinner. Are you working too hard?"

    Effie shook her head, reassuring her. "No, Grandma, I''m fine. You don''t have to worry."

    The two soon fell into an easy, heartfelt conversation.

    Watching them, Vera felt a stab of resentment. Damn that old woman-she''d always favored Effie.

    Ever since Vera had married into the Bagnold family, Lady Selma had never warmed to her and Suzan. But that was fine. Vera had time. One by one, she''d get rid of them. One day, every inch of this house-every stick of furniture, everyst silver spoon-would be hers.

    Just then, Suzan entered with Mitchell in tow.

    With it being Lady Selma''s birthday, Suzan had seized the chance to bring Mitchell along, eager to showcase her impressive boyfriend to the whole family. She wanted everyone to see just how well she''d done for herself-unlike Effie, who, since breaking up with Mitchell, was, in her eyes, nothing at all.

    The moment Suzan came in, her gazended on Effie. She couldn''t help wrinkling her nose in disdain. Effie still looked every bit the pauper.

    Suzan was dying to see what kind of gift Effie would present to Lady Selma. She could hardly wait for Effie to embarrass herself in front of everyone.

 Chapter 73

    Mitchell had spotted Effie too, and his gaze grew dark and unreadable.

    Contrary to what everyone had expected, Effie didn''t look broken or defeated after leaving him. In fact, she carried herself with a calm, effortless grace.

    Effie saw them enter and offered a slight smile, her eyes lingering on Suzan and Mitchell for only a moment-cold and indifferent, as if they were nothing more than passing strangers.

    Mitchell frowned, unable to hide his reaction.

    He seemed ready to say something, but Suzan grabbed his arm before he could speak.

    "Mitchell, let me introduce you this is my grandmother," Suzan said quickly.

    She''d noticed the way Mitchell''s eyes were glued to Effie, and it made her uneasy. Damn it. That woman better not think she can seduce Mitchell again. Over her dead body.

    Mitchell finally looked away from Effie and turned to Selma. "Grandma, I wish you happiness as vast as the ocean and a life as long as the mountains."

    Selma nodded politely. "Thank you, that''s very kind."

    Selma had lived long enough to spot a man''s true character at a nce. She''d seen how Mitchell''s eyes kept drifting to Effie; his charming smile couldn''t hide his wandering attention. Still, seeing how tightly Suzan clung to his arm, Selma decided it wasn''t her ce to say anything. If Suzan liked him, that was enough.

    "Grandma, here''s the birthday gift Mitchell and I picked out for you," Suzan said eagerly, pulling out a beautifully wrapped gift box.

    Inside was an exquisite emerald bracelet, its green hue deep and wless, polished to a gentle shine that caught the light like liquid jade.

    Selma adored jewelry like this, so Suzan had chosen wisely. Instantly, the surrounding guests were drawn over.

    "Wow, that''s quite a gift!" someone eximed.

    "It''s gorgeous-look at the color!"

    "That''s definitely top-tier. Must have cost a fortune."

    Suzan lifted her chin with pride, her eyes darting to Effie in a not-so-subtle show of triumph.

    Smiling sweetly, she said, "We picked this out just for you, Grandma. I hope you like it."

    Selma took the bracelet, gave it a cursory nce, and nodded. "Very nice. Thank you for thinking of me."

    Effie stood quietly at the side, her serene smile never wavering, saying nothing.

    Suzan let out a coldugh. She was dying to see how long Effie could keep up this act.

    Deliberately, Suzan spoke up, "Effie, it''s Grandma''s birthday. What did you bring? Why don''t you show everyone?"

    She sneered inwardly. What could Effie possibly afford? Whatever she had was sure to be embarrassing.

    The onlookers, knowing Effie''s background¡ªa girl with no father''s affection and no mother''s love-were itching to see the spectacle.

    "Yes, let''s see, Effie," Vera chimed in, unable to hide her anticipation.

    Effie remainedposed, undisturbed by the hungry eyes and thinly veiled

    mockery. She opened her bag and quietly took out her gift.

    Everyone stared, stunned. Was that... a wooden bracelet?

    Oh God, was this a joke?

    Suzan couldn''t hold back her disdain. "Effie, if you didn''t have a gift, you could''ve

    just said so. But this... this is a bit much, isn''t it?"

 Chapter 74

    The people around them were already whispering among themselves.

    Anyone could see that was just a wooden bracelet-cheap and worthless.

    If you can''t afford a proper gift, fine. But to show up with something like that? What a joke.

    Unbelievable. Absolutely ridiculous.

    A few people couldn''t help but snicker; it was the sort of story that would have everyone else rolling their eyes in disbelief.

    Effie, unbothered by the murmurs, stepped forward with calmposure. She held out the bracelet to Selma with both hands. "Grandma, this is my gift for you. Wishing you health and happiness."

    Selma took the box and examined the bracelet inside.

    How unusual! The bracelet was unlike anything she''d seen. A faint, pleasant scent of wood drifted from it, soothing and refreshing.

    A flicker of surprise shed in Selma''s eyes before her lips curved into a rare smile. ¡°Effie, this bracelet... Where did you find it?"

    This was no ordinary trinket. It was the kind of treasure you couldn''t buy, no matter how wealthy you were.

    But before Effie could answer, Suzan jumped in, eager to downy the moment. "Grandma, wooden bracelets like that are everywhere. You could pick one up for a few bucks."

    Vera, standing nearby, put on a gentle smile. "It''s the thought that counts, not the price tag. Effie clearly put a lot of thought into this." But the slight curl at the corner of Vera''s mouth betrayed the contempt she felt.

    Effie didn''t need anyone''s help to embarrass herself, they thought¡ªshe was doing a fine job on her own.

    Effie hadn''t even started to exin when a well-dressed businessman caught sight of the bracelet in Selma''s hand. His eyes widened in astonishment. "Wait a minute¡ªis that what I think it is? That''s agarwood-''the diamond of woods,'' the rarest and most prized in the fragrance world! How did you get your hands on something like that?"

    A hush fell over the crowd.

    To see such a thing in their lifetime-this was the ultimate luxury, a rarity even among the wealthy. No amount of money could guarantee you''d ever find one.

    And the man who spoke was none other than Mr. Lloyd, a renowned collector in Neo-Arcadia. If anyone knew what he was talking about, it was him.

    "Mr. Lloyd, is that wood really so special?" someone blurted out. "We thought it was just ordinary wood."

    Suzan piped up again, flustered. "Exactly! It looksmon enough. The craftsmanship is nice, sure, but it''s hardly anything rare."

    Effie shot Suzan a cool nce. "Ignorance is nothing to be proud of. If you don''t know, it''s better to keep quiet than to advertise yourck of intelligence."

    Suzan was left speechless, her face turning pale with embarrassment.

    She nced at Mitchell, hoping he''de to her rescue, but his gaze was fixed on Effie, his expression unreadable.

    Damn Effie! Suzan fumed, grinding her heel into the floor.

    Had she really said something wrong? It was wood, wasn''t it? No matter how much they hyped it up, it couldn''t change what it was.

    But Mr. Lloyd spoke up again, shaking his head. "Some things are best left to the experts. This is agarwood, known in medical circles as the ''King of Emergencies.'' Its scent is so unique, people call it ''nature''s perfume.'' Even after a hundred years, the fragrance lingers. The one in Mrs. Selma''s hand is truly exceptional- its color and aroma are both rare."

    He smiled warmly at Selma. "It''s also a symbol of status. It brings peace of mind and soothes the emotions, especially for older folks. It helps with sleep and rxation. This isn''t just a gift-it''s priceless, impossible to measure with money."

    Mr. Lloyd added with a genialugh, "If you don''t like it, Mrs. Selma, I''ll dly buy it from you for two million. Or, if you prefer, you can pick any gift you want from my collection."

 Chapter 75

    Everyone was stunned by Mr. Lloyd''s words.

    Good Lord! Who would have thought that a piece of such in-looking wood could be so valuable?

    It was simply unbelievable.

    Effie''s expression was just as surprised as the rest of the crowd.

    No one had expected Effie to have such resourcefulness-to actually get her hands on something like this.

    Most of the guests had onlye to spectate, convinced they''d be the ones quietly watching a spectacle unfold. Now, as it turned out, the real fools were themselves.

    Selma slipped the bracelet onto her wrist and nodded in satisfaction. "This was a gift from my granddaughter. It''s the most precious present I''ve ever received, and

    I wouldn''t sell it to anyone."

    Mr. Lloyd burst into heartyughter. "Madam, you''re truly blessed."

    Effie offered a soft smile, choosing not to say more.

    Her calmposure and elegance drew admiring nces from the guests. Some began to whisper, casting sidelong looks at her.

    It seemed everyone agreed-Effie had both wealth and beauty.

    Suzan furrowed her brow and asked, ¡°Effie, where did you get this?"

    Suzan''s tone held more than a hint of skepticism; she clearly doubted whether

    Effie really could have managed to buy something so rare.

    Effie responded coolly, "I had someone find it for me."

    Nn was quite the miracle worker; there was nothing too strange or obscure for him to track down.

    This rare wood was the kind of thing you might see once in a lifetime, though Effie herself had seen her share of extraordinary things.

    She hadn''t expected to encounter such an ignorant crowd, though. If Mr. Lloyd hadn''t been there today, she probably wouldn''t have been able to exin herself at all.

    After her exnation, no one dared to press further.

    The mood lightened, and the party resumed-everyoneughing, eating, and drinking.

    Vera gave Suzan a quick nce.

    Suzan caught on immediately.

    The two of them had a surprise in store for Effie.

    Effie, meanwhile, realized she hadn''t eaten much all day and was starting to feel hungry. She picked up a piece of cake and began to eat, taking her time.

    Just then, a waiter passed by, carrying a tray with several sses of red wine.

    The waiter seemed to be moving a bit too quickly; suddenly, his foot slipped, and he lurched forward. The entire tray tilted, sending wine sshing in Effie''s direction.

    Effie reacted in a sh, twisting her body to the side. Even so, a few drops of wine still sttered onto her dress.

    Her white dress was instantly stained a deep crimson.

    Effie frowned slightly, then raised her gaze to the waiter. Her voice was calm, but there was a chill beneath it. "You should be more careful."

    The waiter paled, clearly terrified, and immediately apologized. "I''m so sorry, miss! I didn''t mean to please, let me show you to one of the guest rooms so you can clean up."

    Effie nced down at her ruined dress and finally nodded. "Alright."

    The white fabric made the stains all the more obvious.

    The maid led Effie to a guest room at the back of the house. "Please wait here, miss. I''ll fetch something to help you clean up."

    With that, the maid stepped out, quietly closing the door behind her.

    Effie stood alone for a moment, then suddenly frowned as she noticed an odd, sweet scent drifting through the air. Instantly alert, she held her breath, doing her best not to inhale whatever was in the room.

    Something''s wrong! she realized at once. She''d walked right into a trap.

    Forcing herself to remain steady, Effie quickly dug through her bag and pulled out

    a small bottle of spray, spritzing it over her mouth and nose.

    It was a stimnt Nn had concocted himself-meant to clear the mind and counteract sedatives.

    She remembered Nn mentioning a kind of narcotic with a floral aroma-one that could knock out an ordinary person in less than three minutes.

 Chapter 76

    The memory of what that housemaid had just done suddenly clicked into ce- Effie understood everything now.

    This was Vera and Suzan''s twisted idea of a "surprise."

    The effects of the sedative began to wear off after Effie sprayed herself with the antidote she''d hidden in her sleeve. Her head cleared almost instantly.

    mping a handkerchief over her nose and mouth, she quickly scanned the room. The windows were locked tight, and the door had been bolted from the outside.

    All of this had been carefully nned.

    Then she heard footsteps outside the door.

    Someone wasing.

    Effie let her body go limp, slumping onto the bed, feigning unconsciousness.

    Momentster, two figures slipped quietly into the room. She recognized Suzan''s voice, smug and cruel. "Well, Effie, looks like your luck''s finally run out. Enjoy the little surprise we''ve set up for you."

    Suzan stood over Effie, her lips curling into a wicked smile.

    Pathetic-she thought Effie was still too green to ever outy them.

    Last time they''d tried to have her kidnapped, but it had failed. So now, Suzan and Vera decided to handle things personally.

    Vera, with her trademark, syrup-sweet motherly tone, nced approvingly at her daughter. "There, feel better now? I''ve always told you, Suzan-patience is key. Never act rashly; you have to use your head if you want to get what you want."

    "I know, Mom," Suzan replied, eyes gleaming. "Just wait till I get her on camera¡ª some juicy photos and videos, then I''ll leak them online. Let everyone see what a tramp she really is. She''ll be trending for all the wrong reasons!"

    "Do whatever you want, darling-as long as you''re happy. Let''s get out of here. Our leading man''s already impatient." Vera''s voice dripped with satisfaction.

    "Of course, you''re the best, Mom." Suzan giggled, linking her arm with Vera''s as they left.

    Effie listened as they greeted someone outside. Vera''s silky voice floated through the door. "Mr. Holt, everything''s ready. She''spletely unconscious. You can go right in and enjoy yourself. I hope you have a wonderful time."

    Mr. Holt''s reply was suave and self-assured. "Thank you, Vera. Don''t worry, as long as I''m satisfied, your contract is as good as signed. I''ll send it over once I''m done."

    Mr. Holt was a notorious yboy, and unfortunately, a key client of The Bagnold Group. Thest time he''d met Effie, he''d been smitten, hinting that if he could spend a night with her, he''d be more than happy to renew his business deal.

    Vera had seized the opportunity perfectly.

    Two birds with one stone: humiliate Effie and secure another lucrative contract.

    Besides, Effie wouldn''t dare say a word when she woke up. No one would believe her, and the scandal would ruin her if it ever got out.

    Especially with so many people involved, even if Effie regained consciousness, she''d be forced to suffer in silence.

    "Well then, Mr. Holt, I''ll leave you to it. Enjoy yourself." Vera slipped away, a satisfied smile on her lips. She couldn''t wait to watch Effie''s downfall.

    Once Vera was gone, Mr. Holt pushed open the door and stepped inside.

    He nearly drooled at the sight of Effie lying on the bed.

    "Hello, gorgeous. Don''t worry, I''ll take real good care of you." He began to unbutton his shirt, his eyes devouring her.

    But as he leaned in, Effie''s eyes flew open. In one quick motion, she grabbed the spray bottle she''d hidden under the covers and aimed it straight at Mr. Holt''s face -dousing him in a blinding mist.

 Chapter 77

    Mr. Holt was caughtpletely off guard. The pepper spray burned his eyes so badly, he couldn''t even keep them open.

    "Goddamn it!" he cursed, voice hoarse with rage and pain.

    Seizing the moment, Effie drove her foot straight into his groin with all the force she could muster.

    A strangled scream tore from Mr. Holt''s throat. His body doubled over, both hands clutching himself as his face drained of color. Cold sweat broke out across his brow and he could barely keep his bnce, staggering back a few steps before copsing onto the floor in a pathetic heap.

    Effie watched him, a cold smile curving her lips, disdain flickering in her eyes.

    She quickly stepped back, putting more distance between them, her gaze wary in case he tried to retaliate.

    Mr. Holt gritted his teeth, forcing himself to look up at her, eyes zing with hatred and agony. Struggling for breath, he rasped, "You... you bitch! Damn you! You actually dared toy a hand on me!"

    Wasn''t this woman unconscious just now? How was she suddenly standing there, full of fight?

    Effie''s reply was icy. "You brought this on yourself, Mr. Holt. Did you really think I''d let you push me around? Dream on. Maybe this will teach you a lesson."

    He trembled with anger, but the pain was so overwhelming he couldn''t move, left helpless as Effie turned and walked away.

    Rage boiled in his chest. He swore to himself that he''d make Effie pay for this. He''d underestimated her never thought she''d have the guts to fight back.

    Effie hurried from the scene, but her mind was already working out her next move.

    Stepping outside, she sucked in a deep breath of fresh air, shaking off the suffocating panic that had gripped her minutes before. Her head was spinning a little, but her mind was crystal clear.

    She needed to act fast.

    Effie gged down a young maid she didn''t recognize, slipped a few bills into her hand, and whispered a few instructions in her ear.

    The maid hurried off.

    Because it was the matriarch''s birthday banquet today, the household staff was stretched thin, so they''d hired some extra help at thest minute. This girl must be one of the temps-Effie had never seen her before.

    It wasn''t long before a familiar figure hurried toward the guest room.

    Effie slipped into the shadows, hiding in a corner.

    She watched as Suzan, looking smug and self-satisfied, pushed open the door.

    A momentter, chaos erupted inside the room.

    Hidden in the corner, Effie heard themotion and let a cold smirk y on her lips.

    You shouldn''t go around hurting others, but you can''t let your guard down, either. Suzan was getting exactly what she deserved-she had no one to me but herself.

    Inside the guest room, Suzan hade in expecting to find Effie in a pitiful state -perfect for capturing on video.

    But the moment she opened the door, she found herself face to face with Mr. Holt''s furious re.

    He was still doubled over, clutching himself, his face ashen. Clearly, Effie''s kick had done some serious damage.

    Mr. Holt was half convinced he''d never be a real man again.

    Damn it, that woman was ruthless.

    When he saw Suzan, his fury doubled-clearly, he thought she was behind this

    mess.

    "You bitch! You set me up!" Mr. Holt roared, voice trembling with rage.

    The lingering sedatives in the room made his eyes unfocused, his movements a little wild.

    "Well, since you''re here, let''s see if I''m still up to the task, shall we?"

    Suzan stared at him, bewildered, not even getting the chance to exin before Mr. Holt lunged at her.

    He seized her wrist in a punishing grip, squeezing so hard it felt like he might snap her bones.

 Chapter 78

    "Mr. Holt, please, let me exin! It wasn''t me! It was Effie! She-" Suzan thrashed about in panic, desperate to clear her name.

    "Shut up!" Mr. Holt snapped, cutting her off before she could finish. He shoved her roughly onto the bed. "As long as you Bagnold women are involved, it doesn''t matter which one. You''re not bad-looking yourself, so I suppose you''ll do. If you make me pay for this, I''ll make sure you all regret ever crossing me."

    Dizzy and terrified, Suzan could barely process what was happening. She''d never imagined things would spiral so far out of control. All she''d wanted was to use Mr. Holt to teach Effie a lesson, yet somehow, she''d ended up as the scapegoat.

    Damn it! How did ite to this?

    Her mind raced in confusion. Where was Effie? Hadn''t that wretched girl fainted? Where did she go?

    But Suzan had no time to think. Mr. Holt was already closing in on her.

    Meanwhile, Effie, having overheard enough, slipped away from the chaos with a calm that seemed almost otherworldly.

    Vera kept ncing at her watch, growing impatient. Enough time had passed- surely by now, Mr. Holt and Suzan had already done the deed.

    She scanned the room, hoping to find Suzan, but there was no sign of her. Oh well. Vera was anxious to act; if she waited too long and everything was already over, there''d be no point.

    Spotting a gathering in the hall, Vera made her move. In a deliberately loud voice, she asked, "Where''s Effie? Has anyone seen her? I''ve got something for her."

    Someone spoke up, "I think Effie went out to the back garden just now."

    Another chimed in, "That''s strange-I passed by the guest room near the garden earlier and thought I heard something inside. Could something have happened?"

    The crowd exchanged curious nces, and soon, a small group started making their way toward the guest wing.

    As they approached, it became clear the noises wereing from inside the guest room.

    Vera''s heart pounded with excitement. She could almost taste Effie''s humiliation. That little witch was about to be ruined for good.

    Feigning shock, Vera gasped, "What''s going on? Is Effie in there?"

    The muffled sounds of a man and woman from inside left everyone feeling awkward and uneasy.

    Just then, Effie herself strolled up, cool and unruffled, a faint crease between her brows. "Vera, were you looking for me?" she asked.

    Vera froze, as if she''d seen a ghost. "You-how are you here? Weren''t you¡ª?¡± She stopped herself before finishing the thought.

    What was this? Effie was supposed to be unconscious, locked away in the guest room. How could she be standing right here?

    Then who was in the room?

    A wave of dread washed over Vera. No-it couldn''t be what she thought.

    ¡°Vera, if I''m not here, then where am I supposed to be?" Effie replied, feigning innocence. "I spilled some red wine on my dress earlier and had to run back to my room to clean up. When I came out, I saw everyone gathered here. Did something happen?"

    Effie''s tone was sweetly oblivious, but her meaning was clear.

    ying dumb! Who did she think she was fooling?

    Vera''s nerves were fraying by the second, her anxiety mounting. Especially with Suzan nowhere in sight, Vera had a sinking feeling that something was very, very wrong.

    She couldn''t shake the sense that Effie had outsmarted them all. The situation was spiraling out of her control.

    Suddenly, Effie''s voice cut through the murmurs. "Wait-who''s in the guest room? Today''s Grandma''s birthday celebration. What kind of shameless person would do something so disgraceful right now?"

    The crowd erupted in whispers and spection.

    Without waiting for an answer, Effie stepped forward and pushed open the guest room door.

 Chapter 79

    Vera was a step toote to stop what was about to unfold.

    Effie pushed open the guest room door, and the scene inside froze everyone in their tracks.

    There, disheveled and breathless, Mr. Holt was sprawled over Suzan, who was struggling beneath him, her hair a tangled mess, mascara streaking down her tear-stained cheeks.

    A faint, lingering hint of perfume hung in the air.

    The moment everyone took in what they were seeing, the room erupted in shocked whispers.

    "What on earth is going on here?" someone gasped.

    "Wait, isn''t that Mr. Holt and Suzan? Why are they in here together?"

    "My God, this is humiliating! And on Mrs. Lancaster''s birthday, of all days!"

    "I know, right? Absolutely shameless. I can''t believe Suzan would do this! Didn''t she just show up with her boyfriend?"

    The crowd murmured, gossip bouncing from ear to ear.

    Vera''s face went ghostly pale. She never expected the ones caught in the room would actually be Suzan and Mr. Holt.

    The moment she''d seen Effie, she''d had a bad feeling about this.

    Effie was supposed to be the one caught in this mess-how had everything flipped upside down?

    Had they just been outyed by that conniving witch, Effie?

    Effie stood in the doorway, feigning shock, her hand pped to her mouth. "Oh my God, Suzan, Mr. Holt-what are you doing?!"

    As if no one else could put on a show.

    Her voice trembled with apparent surprise, but a cold glint flickered in her eyes.

    She''d seen right through Vera and Suzan''s little scheme from the start.

    If they wanted to ruin her reputation, let them taste their own medicine.

    Suzan whipped her head up at the sound of Effie''s voice, her eyes wild with panic and fury. "Effie! It was you, wasn''t it? You set us up!"

    Effie only widened her eyes, innocent as amb. "Suzan, what are you talking about? I have no idea what you mean. I just went to change clothes and heard amotion-so I came to see what was going on."

    "I never thought... Suzan, Mr. Holt, what are you two doing? Today''s Grandma''s birthday party... This really isn''t appropriate, is it?"

    Effie let her voice trail off, as if too embarrassed to continue.

    Suzan was so choked with anger she couldn''t get a word out, her face flushing and paling by turns.

    "You... you''re lying, it was you who "

    "Suzan, enough!" Vera snapped, desperate to shut her up.

    Damn it. If Suzan blurted out the truth in a fit of rage, they''d all be doomed.

    Mr. Holt finally regained his senses, shooting Effie a murderous re. "Damn it, was this your doing?"

    Effie arched an eyebrow, her voice tinged with indignation. "Mr. Holt, what are you implying? I just got here-how could I have set you up? If anything, shouldn''t we be asking how the two of you ended up here together?"

    Mr. Holt found himself at a loss for words, stymied by Effie''seback.

    He hadn''t expected this woman to be so cunning-he''d been yed for a fool.

    Vera, flustered, rushed to de-escte. "Alright, alright-this must be a misunderstanding! Suzan, Mr. Holt, get up, don''t give everyone the wrong idea!"

    Suzan bit her lip, eyes brimming with humiliation and rage.

    Right now, she wanted nothing more than to tear Effie to pieces.

    But she knew nothing she said would change how this looked, so she climbed awkwardly to her feet, head bowed, unable to meet anyone''s eyes.

    Thank God Mitchell was busy chatting up some business partners across the hall.

    If he''d seen this, she''d be ruined.

    Mr. Holt straightened his jacket, face thunderous, and stood off to the side.

    Vera worked quickly to regain control, turning to the gawking guests. "Everyone, it''s just a misunderstanding, really. Please, let''s all head back to the parlor-don''t keep Mrs. Lancaster waiting."

    Reluctant but aware of propriety, the crowd nodded, their curiosity unsated, and slowly filed out of the room.

    Once thest guest was gone, Vera rounded on Effie, her voice a venomous hiss. "Effie, you''re quite the actress, aren''t you?"

 Chapter 80

    Effie offered a faint, unbothered smile. "Vera, right back at you," she replied coolly.

    Vera''s face turned a dangerous shade, but with so many eyes on her, she swallowed her anger and forced out a cold retort. "Don''t get toofortable. This isn''t over."

    Effie just shrugged, her lips curving into a dismissive grin before she turned and left the guest room.

    "If they want to y games, I''ll y along," she murmured to herself, a glint of icy determination flickering in her eyes.

    At that exact moment, a sleek ck Rolls-Royce Phantom was gliding up the drive to Bagnold Mansion.

    Lyman was back from his business trip.

    He hadn''t even gone home yet-he''de straight here.

    He''d tried calling Effie earlier, but she hadn''t answered any of his calls.

    Anxious, Lyman had Luther look into it, and only then discovered it was Selma''s birthday celebration-Effie had returned to the family estate.

    A heaviness crept into Lyman''s chest.

    Why hadn''t Effie told him about Selma''s birthday party? Weren''t they married now?

    It was as if she still didn''t see herself as his wife.

    Did Effie think their marriage was just some kind of joke?

    The thought made his expression darken.

    He instructed Luther to prepare an impressive array of gifts and headed straight for the Bagnold estate.

    Luther had mentioned before that Selma, the family matriarch, had always been kind to Effie.

    So Lyman naturally held the olddy in high regard.

    When Lyman arrived, he strode directly into the grand hall.

    The moment people saw him, the entire room fell into stunned silence.

    Lyman Etheridge-the name echoed through Neo-Arcadia as one of its most influential men. And he hade to Selma Bagnold''s birthday celebration?

    What kind of clout did Selma have to warrant that?

    Even Selma herself was taken aback.

    How had she, of all people, evere to be connected with someone like Lyman Etheridge?

    She hurriedly stood, flustered but beaming. "Mr... Mr. Etheridge, what an honor! You''re too kind to grace us with your presence!"

    Lyman greeted her with polite formality. "Mrs. Bagnold, I wish you many more years of health and happiness."

    He presented her with an assortment of beautifully wrapped boxes-inside were rare and valuable health supplements, the kind reserved for only the most honored guests.

    "There wasn''t much time to prepare, but I hope you''ll enjoy these," he said with unfailing courtesy.

    Selma''s hands trembled as she epted the gifts. "Thank you! Your presence alone is the greatest gift. These are far too generous."

    "It was the least I could do," Lyman responded, his tone measured and respectful.

    Shepard, who''d only just caught sight of Lyman, practically lit up.

    How often did he get the chance to meet such a powerhouse in person? Today was a stroke of extraordinary luck.

    He hurried over, grinning from ear to ear. "Mr. Etheridge, it''s a real privilege to have you here¡ªour home is truly honored! Please, have a seat, make yourselffortable!"

    Lyman nodded slightly, but his eyes swept the hall, searching for someone.

    He spoke evenly. "You''re too kind, President Bagnold. I was simply passing by and wanted to wish Mrs. Bagnold a happy birthday."

    Shepard could barely contain his excitement. For a man like Lyman Etheridge to show up in person this was a once-in-a-lifetime honor. He quickly signaled the staff to bring tea and fussed over Lyman, "Mr. Etheridge, please, have some tea.¡±

    But Lyman waved him off, his tone suddenly cold. "No need to trouble yourself. By the way-where''s Effie?"

    He didn''t bother to hide the directness of his question.

    Truthfully, he hadn''t juste for the party; this was also a statement to the Bagnolds.

    He''d heard the stories-how Shepard had abandoned Effie and her mother. If Shepard ever dared hurt Effie again, Lyman would make sure he regretted it.

    "Effie?" Shepard blinked, caught off guard, then quickly recovered. "Oh, yes, Effie was just here¡ªI''ll have someone fetch her right away."

    Still, unease gnawed at him.

    Why was Lyman Etheridge asking after Effie?

    Was there something going on between them?

    A faint sense of dread settled in Shepard''s gut...

 Chapter 81

    Now wasn''t the time to dwell on it. Shepard quickly told a servant to fetch Effie.

    At that moment, Effie was justing 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¡ªhad hee back from his trip already?

    And how did he know today was her grandmother''s birthday luncheon?

    The surprise was in 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 moreplicated 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.

    Everyone hoped for a chance to meet him-none more so than Shepard, who could barely contain his excitement.

    He stepped forward, addressing Lyman with eager politeness. "Mr. Etheridge, it''s such a rare honor to have you here for my mother''s birthday. Why not stay a while longer and join us for a drink?"

    Lyman paused, offering Shepard a cool but courteous nce. "You''re too kind, President Bagnold. Today is a special day for your mother-of course I woulde. But I''m afraid I have some business matters waiting at the office. Perhaps another time."

    It was a polite but unmistakable refusal.

    Shepard''s smile faltered for a split second, then he recovered smoothly, nodding. "Of course, Mr. Etheridge. I won''t keep you any longer. I hope to visit you soon."

    Lyman inclined his head in acknowledgment.

    After saying their goodbyes to the matriarch, Lyman led Effie out of the hall.

    Selma, who had seen her share of life, had noticed everything.

    There was something almost intimate about the way Lyman and Effie interacted.

    Ever since Effie arrived, Lyman''s attention had barely left her.

    When had the two of them be so close?

    Still, Lyman had always been discreet-no scandals, a good family, and an upstanding character. He was, by all ounts, an excellent match.

    Yet the Etheridge family was known for its high standards. Would they really ept Effie?

    Selma felt a mix of happiness and worry.

    But seeing how Lyman seemed to protect Effie, she thought, "Let the young take care of their own fortunes."

    As they stepped out of the Bagnold residence, a cool breeze made Effie pull her coat tighter around her.

    Lyman noticed, shrugged off his own suit jacket, and gently draped it over her shoulders.

    "Thank you," Effie said quietly, looking up at him with a glimmer of gratitude in her eyes.

    He didn''t say anything more, just slipped an arm around her shoulders and steered her toward the ck sedan waiting at the curb.

    Inside, the driver was already at the ready. Once the two of them got in, he started the car and pulled away from the Bagnold estate.

    Back in the grand hall, guests couldn''t stop specting about Lyman and Effie''s rtionship.

    The image of the two of them standing side by side-such a striking couple-left everyone envious of the Bagnold family''s good fortune.

 Chapter 82

    If Effie and Lyman ended up together, would the Bagnold family ever have to worry about money or business again?

    Some people in the room were already scheming, eager to cozy up to them. Mitchell stood silently in a corner, but he saw everything that had just happened.

    A wave of jealousy crept over him-sharp and bitter-leaving him restless and unwilling to ept what he''d witnessed.

    It was as if someone had snatched away his favorite toy.

    He felt horribly unsettled.

    Suzan noticed the stormy look on Mitchell''s face and didn''t dare approach him.

    But she knew where all of this started: Effie.

    That wretched woman-always flirting, always managing to seduce men.

    And now, unbelievably, she''d managed to get Lyman''s attention.

    So what if she had, though? Lyman was only toying with her. There was no way he was serious.

    Suzan couldn''t wait to see Effie discarded and left behind.

    When the birthday banquet finally ended, everyone walked away lost in their own thoughts.

    Shepard''s expression was grim. He realized he needed to take his eldest daughter more seriously.

    Even though Effie had dered she was severing ties, he''d raised her-how could she simply walk away from him?

    The next morning, after Effie got up, she made herself breakfast, ate quietly, and headed to the office.

    A couple of days earlier, she''d bought a simple, unremarkable car-nothing shy. That way, no one would pay her any special attention when she drove to work.

    She didn''t want to show up with Lyman, either. If anyone saw them together, the rumors would fly, and she wanted nothing more than a peaceful, ordinary work life doing what she loved.

    When Lyman found out about the car, he frowned in disapproval. "That model isn''t safe enough. If you don''t like any of the cars in the garage, you can pick out another one."

    But Effie refused. The garage was filled with over a dozen rare, limited-edition cars-Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Porsche, Maserati...

    If she drove one of those to work, she''d instantly be the talk of the office. People would assume she was being kept by some wealthy man.

    There was nothing Lyman could do but remind her to drive safely.

    Effie left the house soon after.

    Lyman couldn''t help but smile to himself. His wife really was different from other people.

    Suddenly, his phone rang.

    Thinking Effie might have run into trouble, he picked it up at once. But when he nced at the screen, his brow furrowed.

    Still, the phone kept ringing, so he answered.

    A flustered voice came through. "Mr. Etheridge, hello, this is Carole-Isabel''s manager. She just got back into the country today, but was swarmed by crazed fans at the airport. She''s hurt, but doesn''t want to make a scene, so she asked me to call you..."

    Lyman listened, his voice turning cool and steady. "I''ll send someone to bring her to the Etheridge Group''s private clinic."

    "Thank you so much, Mr. Etheridge," Carole said, deeply relieved.

    After hanging up, Lyman paused for a moment, then headed out to the clinic as well.

    When he arrived, he spotted Carole pacing anxiously in the hallway.

    As soon as she saw Lyman, Carole hurried over, her face full of worry and apology.

    "Mr. Etheridge, I''m so sorry for the trouble. Isabel just finished her exam-the doctor says it''s only a mild sprain, nothing serious, but she''s a little shaken." Carole spoke quietly, her voice tinged with helplessness.

    Lyman nodded, his expression unreadable. "Which room is she in?"

    "She''s in the VIP suite¡ªI''ll take you there." Carole quickly led the way.

    They reached the door, and Carole gave a soft knock before opening it, gesturing for Lyman to go inside.

    Neither of them noticed the figure down the hall, quietly snapping photos of the VIP room''s entrance...

 Chapter 83

    In the hospital room, Isabel leaned against the headboard, her face pale but her beauty undiminished. When she saw Lyman walk in, a glimmer of delight shed in her eyes, but just as quickly, it was reced by a look of wounded vulnerability. "Lyman, you came..." Her voice was soft and fragile, barely more than a whisper.

    Lyman approached the bed, ncing at her coolly. "What happened? How did you get hurt?"

    Isabel lowered her head, her tone tinged with helplessness. "The fans were too enthusiastic. I got caught in the crowd and fell. I didn''t want to make a big deal out of it, so I asked Carole to call you."

    Isabel was a dancer-she''d just returned from advanced training, set to be the principal of herpany. With her striking looks, impable image, and influential backing, she''d achieved a level of fame that outshone most celebrities. To broaden her name recognition, she''d entered show business,ndingmercials, film roles, endorsements, even appearing on several hit reality shows.

    Her elegance and exceptional talent on stage had quickly won her a massive following, making her a star both in the arts and in entertainment.

    Lyman''s brow furrowed slightly, his voice still calm. "You need to be more careful. Things like this¡ªyou should let the security team handle them."

    Isabel looked up at him, her gaze full of hope. "Lyman, you know how much my legs mean to me. If this injury ruins my career... I honestly don''t know what I''d do."

    But Lyman remainedposed, his tone steady. "The doctor said it''s only a mild sprain-you''ll be fine after a few days of rest. Don''t worry."

    The disappointment in Isabel''s eyes was unmistakable.

    Why was he so distant? Had Lyman really fallen for that other woman?

    Just then, Lyman''s phone rang. He nced at the screen and, as he saw the caller''s name, a faint smile appeared on his face. In an instant, the chill in his demeanor melted away he seemed almost radiant.

    He answered without hesitation and walked over to the window. Isabel couldn''t hear the other side, but she saw him nod, his voice low and maic. "Alright, I understand."

    Watching him, Isabel''s fingers curled tightly around the sheets, her knuckles turning white as a wave of bitterness washed over her.

    A woman''s intuition told her exactly who was on the other end of that call. And it wasn''t business-this was personal.

    Was this the woman Vinson Elliott had mentioned?

    When Lyman hung up and turned back, the warmth had vanished. He was his usual, stoic self.

    Isabel''s eyes were rimmed red. She forced herself upright, meeting his gaze. "Thank you foring today, Lyman. You probably have work to take care of-go ahead. I''ll be fine on my own..."

    "If you need anything, call Luther. You''re still under contract with thepany," Lyman replied coolly.

    Isabel nodded faintly, her head bowed so he couldn''t see her expression.

    After Lyman left, Isabel grabbed the pillow and hurled it to the floor in a fury. Carole rushed over, trying to calm her. "Oh, Isabel, what''s gotten into you? Mr. Etheridge came right away as soon as I told him you were hurt!"

    Isabel bit her lip, tears finally spilling down her cheeks. She wiped them away with the back of her hand, her voice thick with emotion. "So what if he came? His heart isn''t here! Didn''t you see him? The second that call came, he changedpletely... He''s in love with that woman. How could he?"

    Carole sighed and sat beside her, gently patting her shoulder. "Isabel, you''re overthinking it. Mr. Etheridge is who he is¡ªof course there are women around him. Why let it get to you? Right now, you need to focus on getting better. You can''t afford to miss any more work."

 Chapter 84

    "Work? Ha..." Isabel let out a cold, bitterugh, her eyes tinged with self-mockery. "I''ve thrown myself into my job-wasn''t it all just so I could be a little closer to him? And what do I get for it? He doesn''t even see me. I''m invisible to him."

    Carole frowned, her tone turning serious. "Isabel, don''t give in to despair. It''s not like you just met Mr. Etheridge yesterday. You know he''s not the type to fall for someone easily. The only way to get close to him is to be even better yourself. That''s the truth."

    Isabel fell silent. Deep down, she knew Carole was right.

    But she simply couldn''t control how she felt.

    From the very first moment sheid eyes on Lyman, she hadn''t been able to look away. His aloofness, his strength¡ªhe was like a mountain she could never climb.

    Yet that was exactly what drew her in, what made her unable to let go.

    Still, Isabel was confident that Lyman wouldn''t just leave her behind.

    Because he''d promised her he wouldn''t.

    "Carole, am I being foolish?" Isabel asked quietly, her voice trembling with vulnerability.

    Carole sighed, her words softening. "You''re not foolish, just young. But if you keep working on yourself, I''m sure Mr. Etheridge will notice. He really does care about you, even if you can''t see it right now. Don''t let your imagination run wild, okay?"

    Isabel drew a deep breath. Suddenly, a steely glint shed in her eyes. "Carole, can you help me look into the woman around Lymantely? Know your rival, win the war-it''s that simple."

    Carole broke into a relieved smile. "Now that''s the Isabel I know. Stop overthinking and get some rest. Leave the digging to me-I''ll find out everything you want to know."

    After all, this involved her own interests, too.

    Carole certainly hoped Lyman and Isabel would end up together.

    All these years, it was Lyman who''d been backing Isabel from behind the scenes.

    With his support, Isabel could do almost anything she wanted in the entertainment industry.

    Every show shended was top-tier.

    Isabel nodded. She was genuinely curious-what kind of woman could make Lyman actually pay attention?

    But whoever she was, Isabel was sure she wouldn''t be a real threat.

    Effie felt uneasy all day, though she couldn''t quite put her finger on why.

    She only realized she''d forgotten her keys when she sat down at her desk.

    So she''d called Lyman, asking him toe home early.

    Work soon swept her up, until she needed a break and headed to the kitchte for a cup of coffee. That''s when she overheard her coworkers gossiping.

    This office was like that-rumors traveled faster than emails.

    Effie had no interest in their chatter. She poured her coffee, took a sip, and was about to leave when she caught a snippet of conversation.

    "You know what? My idol is back in town. I absolutely adore her."

    "Don''t tell me Isabel?"

    "That''s her! She got back this morning. There was a bit of a mishap at the airport, and she ended up in the hospital."

    "I just checked the entertainment news. Apparently, our Mr. Etheridge rushed straight over to see her."

    "Oh my god, can you imagine? They''re perfect together-she''s gorgeous, he''s brilliant. Maybe Isabel will be our boss''s wife one day!"

    "Honestly, I wouldn''t be surprised!"

    Effie stopped listening. Suddenly, her coffee scalded her hand, snapping her back to reality.

    She frowned, thoughts swirling.

    Isabel?

    Wasn''t that the woman Vinson Elliott had mentioned before?

    Was there something going on between her and Lyman?

    If so, then why had Lyman married her?

 Chapter 85

    Effie''s heart suddenly raced, her coffee cup trembling ever so slightly in her hands.

    She took a deep breath, willing herself to calm down, but her colleagues'' words echoed relentlessly in her mind.

    "Isabel... Lyman rushed straight to the hospital as soon as he heard..."

    Effie had been distracted the entire day, her thoughts nowhere near her work.

    After work, she drove straight home, barely remembering the route.

    To her relief, Lyman was already there when she arrived.

    The moment she stepped inside, rich, inviting aromas wafted to greet her at the door. Effie paused, caught off guard.

    Soon, a tall, lean figure emerged from the kitchen.

    "You''re back? Perfect timing. The duck and mushroom soup is almost ready-it''s good for you. Be sure to have an extra helping tonight."

    Effie nodded. "Thanks. That''s really thoughtful of you."

    "I just need to make a couple more sides. Why don''t you rx and watch some TV while you wait?"

    With that, Lyman disappeared back into the kitchen, sleeves already rolled up.

    Effie lingered at the doorway, watching his busy silhouette, a swirl of mixed emotions rising inside her.

    Was he trying to make it up to her? Guilty about what happened today?

    She quickly shook those thoughts away. What was she thinking?

    Effie walked over to the kitchen entrance, leaning against the doorframe. "Need a hand in there?"

    Lyman was rinsing vegetables, water sshing onto his shirt. He nced down, realizing he''d forgotten an apron.

    "Actually, you could help me tie my apron."

    Effie hesitated for a second, then stepped into the kitchen. She took the apron down from the hook and moved behind Lyman. Her fingers grazed his waist as she wrapped the strings around him, and she couldn''t help blushing, heat creeping up her face and ears.

    Lyman stood so tall, his shoulders broad. Standing this close, she could feel the warmth radiating from his body.

    Her cheeks grew even hotter.

    "All set." Effie exhaled, tying a knot at his back.

    Lyman turned and shed her a grateful smile. "Thanks. Go on and rx-I''ll be done in just a minute."

    Effie nodded and retreated to the living room.

    Sitting on the sofa, she found her eyes drifting back to the kitchen, drawn to his figure as he worked.

    Lyman really was a catch-good looks, good family, sessful in his own right.

    Honestly, she still didn''t understand why he''d agreed to marry her in the first ce.

    If Isabel was the one he truly cared about, why hadn''t he married her?

    Was it just a matter of pride between the two of them? Had Lyman only chosen her as a convenient escape?

    Effie''s thoughts drifted further and further, impossible to rein in.

    Still, seeing Lyman cook for her, she couldn''t help but feel touched.

    When she was with Mitchell, she''d always been the one giving. Even when she was sick with a fever, Mitchell wouldn''t so much as bring her a ss of water, let alone cook for her.

    He''d just tell her to see a doctor and drink more fluids always quick with advice, but never with real care.

    It''s only when you have something better topare that you realize how much you''ve missed.

    Now, Effie found herself longing a little for this feeling, though she knew she shouldn''t.

    She shook herself from her reverie and quickly turned on the TV, lowering the volume so it wouldn''t be too loud.

    But, as luck would have it, the entertainment news was on. The anchor was reporting on Isabel''s return and the ident at the airport.

    On screen, Effie saw Isabel''s delicate, graceful face. She wore a simple yet

    elegant trench coat, a faint smile touching her lips.

    Despite having suffered minor injuries in the incident, her poise was unmistakable.

    The camera cut to the hospital-chaos everywhere.

 Chapter 86

    The camera abruptly cut to Lyman, and Effie''s heart sank.

    He was striding down the hospital corridor in a crisp suit, his expression all seriousness and focus. In just a few seconds of footage, Effie could see the concern etched in his eyes.

    "So he really did rush over as soon as he heard," Effie murmured, a bitter edge to her voice.

    She didn''t quite understand herself, either. Their marriage had always been a matter of convenience-just two people getting what they needed. Why did she care so much?

    Her thoughts were interrupted as Lyman emerged from the kitchen, carrying two tes. "Dinner''s ready," he said with a gentle smile, setting the dishes on the table.

    Effie stood and took her seat. The table was set with a steaming bowl of hearty duck soup and two other dishes: buttery garlic shrimp and crisp greens with a light dipping sauce.

    Lyman was a talented cook, and though the portions were modest, it was more than enough for them-and everything on the table was something Effie loved.

    Suddenly, her heart skipped a beat.

    "Try the soup-I put pumpkin in it. It''s good for you," Lyman said softly.

    "Thank you. You made all my favorites," Effie replied, her worries melting away as she looked at him with gratitude.

    "Then have some more," he encouraged, smiling.

    Effie nodded, taking a spoonful of soup. The broth was rich andforting. The shrimp were perfectly seasoned, the greens fresh and crunchy with just the right touch of sauce.

    As she ate these simple home-cooked dishes, an unexpected warmth bloomed in her chest¡ªa happiness she couldn''t quite put into words.

    They chatted as they ate, the atmosphere cozy and light.

    Just as they were finishing up, Lyman''s phone buzzed. He nced at the screen, his brow furrowing ever so slightly.

    Effie paused, watching him.

    Setting down his fork, Lyman said, "Go ahead and eat. I need to take this."

    "Alright," Effie replied.

    She watched as he stepped out onto the balcony, phone to his ear.

    On the other end, Isabel''s gentle voice came through, "Lyman, I''m sorry. The reporters caught what happened today... They seem to have misunderstood... I''m worried I might cause you trouble. Should I make a statement to clear things up?" The news was already everywhere; surely, plenty of people had seen it.

    "That won''t be necessary," Lyman said after a brief pause.

    When he returned, Effie had already set down her utensils.

    "All finished?" he asked, a little surprised.

    "I''m full," she answered.

    Lyman looked done with his meal, too.

    Effie started clearing the dishes, but Lyman stopped her. "I''ll take care of it. You go rest."

    She almost felt embarrassed. She''d juste home from work and hadn''t lifted a finger, while Lyman, busy as he was, had gone out of his way to cook for her.

    A sudden warmth spread through Effie''s heart.

    Carole truly lived up to her reputation as a top agent-she had already tracked down all of Effie''s information in no time.

    Isabel, now discharged and resting at home, sat with the dossier in hand.

    She studied it carefully, and when she reached Effie''s photo-a fresh-faced, pretty young woman-her brow furrowed, her expression darkening.

    Damn it. So this was the woman who''d caught Lyman''s eye?

    She had to admit, there was a certain charm to Effie''s looks. But Isabel was

    confident she was the better woman by far.

    Sitting back, Isabel decided she wasn''t going to just sit and wait for things to y out. It was time to act.

 Chapter 87

    ording to the file, Effie was just an ordinary woman in the workforce-nothing remarkable about her background, and her abilities at work were decent but not outstanding. Yet here she was, catching Isabel''s attention in a way that stung with a mix of disbelief and disdain.

    "Effie..." Isabel murmured the name under her breath, her tone colored with contempt and puzzlement.

    So, she''s working as a designer at The Etheridge Group now?

    She must''ve pulled some strings to get in, right? How else could this be such a coincidence?

    And apparently, she''d managed to charm Lyman, too.

    Worse yet, rumor had it they were even living together.

    Isabel had thought she must have misread the information. But she checked again¡ªno mistake. The evidence was right there in her hands.

    Her brow furrowed tightly, fingers unconsciously clenching the file as a wave of jealousy and resentment washed over her. It felt like a fire igniting in her chest.

    "Effie... What makes you think you deserve all this?" Isabel whispered, her voice icy and low.

    Carole, watching from the side, quickly tried to calm her. "Isabel, don''t let this get to you. We need to think carefully and make a n."

    Isabel''s voice was cool and measured. "Carole, I have an awards g at the beginning of next month, don''t I?"

    "That''s right, why?" Carole asked, confused by the sudden change of subject.

    Isabel''s expression turned calcting. ¡°I haven''t picked any jewelry yet. Why notmission Effie to design something for me?"

    Effie''s supposed to be a jewelry designer, isn''t she? Let''s see if she''s really got any talent to show.

    Carole frowned, hesitant. "But it''s such a prestigious event. Usually, you''d have something made by a top designer-Effie''s barely known. Wouldn''t that look... odd?"

    Isabel gave a cold littleugh, mischief glinting in her eyes. "That''s exactly the point, Carole. I have my reasons. If her design falls t, she''ll be the one embarrassed, and everyone will see how she really got into The Etheridge Group. Let''s see her exin that away."

    Carole paused, then caught on to Isabel''s n. She nodded, a hint of admiration in her smile. ¡°Brilliant, Isabel. This is a good way to test what Effie''s really made of."

    A sly smile yed at the corner of Isabel''s mouth as she lifted her chin,

    confidence returning to her eyes. "Exactly. I want to know what''s so special about Effie that Lyman is so taken with her."

    Without further dy, Carole picked up her phone and dialed The Etheridge Group. "Hello, is this the design department? We''d like tomission a custom jewelry set from Designer Bagnold. Could you help us arrange it?"

    On the other end, the receptionist responded politely, "Certainly. I''ll pass along your request to Designer Bagnold and have someone get back to you soon."

    After hanging up, Carole looked back at Isabel. "It''s done. Now we just have to wait and see how Effie reacts."

    Isabel nodded, a chill flickering in her gaze. "Effie... don''t let me down."

    ***

    Design Department

    Effie was in the middle of a chaotic workday when the department head approached her unexpectedly.

    "Designer Bagnold, there''s a new client who''s specifically requested you to design a jewelry set."

    Effie paused, a little stunned. She''d only just started at thepany; how could a client already be asking for her by name? Was it an old contact from before? Nelly, sitting nearby, overheard the conversation and frowned in disbelief. "Director, did I hear that right? The client actually asked for Designer Bagnold?" "Yes, that''s correct," the director replied with a good-natured smile. "I''ll have my assistant send you the client brief shortly, Designer Bagnold."

    "Thank you," Effie replied, nodding.

    Momentster, the assistant delivered the file, and the meeting with the client was already scheduled. Everything seemed to be going smoothly.

    Effie returned to her desk and opened herptop, ready to review the client''s information¡ªwhen suddenly, she was interrupted by an urgent call to attend a

    meeting.

 Chapter 88

    Effie hurried off to her meeting and, as a result, never had a chance to look over the project brief.

    By the time the meeting was over and she''d grabbed a quick lunch, the afternoon sun was already nting through the office windows.

    She was just settling in to finally review the materials when her assistant, Shirley, appeared at her door.

    "Ms. Bagnold, your client is almost here. I hear she''s a regr-very particr, though. Apparently, she''s a dancer, but she''s generous when ites to pricing. Just a heads up: you might want to be extra careful with this one."

    Shirley had a knack for knowing everything about everyone-a real office encyclopedia. She always seemed to have the inside scoop.

    A dancer? The word caught Effie off guard. For some reason, Isabel''s face popped into her mind.

    Wasn''t Isabel a dancer, too?

    No, it had to be a coincidence.

    Besides, there was no way Isabel would know anything about her. She was just another face in the crowd. Her marriage to Lyman was a tightly kept secret, after all.

    Effie shook off the thought. She was overthinking it.

    "Alright, thanks, Shirley. When they arrive, could you please bring them to the conference room? I''ll head over and get everything ready," Effie replied, her tone calm and collected.

    Whatever happens, happens, she thought. She wasn''t nervous¡ªafter all, she''d designed jewelry for royalty and high society before, and they''d all left satisfied.

    If a client was picky, that just meant her designs weren''t quite what they were looking for. As long as the criticism was constructive, Effie was grateful for it. That was how she improved.

    And, truthfully, she''d always had confidence in her own abilities.

    Hopefully, this client wouldn''t be difficult just for the sake of it.

    Shirley, seeing Effie''s effortless poise, felt reassured. She admired Effie-her time at thepany hadn''t been long, but Shirley already liked her immensely.

    Effie was striking in an understated way, carrying herself with a quiet confidence and elegance that couldn''t be faked or imitated. Shirley always assumed she muste from a good background, a life of privilege, even though Effie never untedbels or showed off.

    More than anything, Effie was talented. Shirley had seen her design sketches- they were vivid, unique, and full of life.

    "Of course, Ms. Bagnold," Shirley nodded, then hurried off to make the arrangements.

    Effie tidied her desk, grabbed her sketchbook and notes, and made her way to the conference room.

    She had barely settled into her chair when Shirley returned. "Your clients are here."

    Effie stood to greet them.

    The moment she saw who walked through the door, she froze in disbelief.

    You''ve got to be kidding, she thought. Speak of the devil.

    It really was Isabel. And her agent.

    Effie recognized the agent, Carole, from TV-a striking woman with a cool, professional air.

    But it had to be a coincidence, she told herself again. Isabel couldn''t possibly know who she was.

    Effie kept herposure, a polite, professional smile on her lips. "Miss Isabel, wee to The Etheridge Group. I''m Effie Bagnold, and I''ll be handling your jewelry design project."

    Isabel entered the room with a graceful smile, her gaze lingering on Effie for just a moment-long enough for something unreadable to flicker in her eyes.

    Her agent, Carole, followed close behind, giving Effie a curious once-over.

    "Ms. Bagnold, it''s a pleasure," Isabel said, her voice soft and melodious, with just the faintest note of intrigue.

    "Please, have a seat, Miss Isabel," Effie said cordially, gesturing to the table.

    Isabel took a seat, elegant andposed. "I''ve heard so much about your work, Ms. Bagnold. They say your designs have a truly unique style. That''s why I came to you I''m hoping you''ll create something special for me. I do hope you won''t let me down."

    There was a subtle edge to her words-a hint of challenge beneath the polite surface.

 Chapter 89

    "Thank you for your trust, Miss Isabel. Do you have any specific preferences when ites to jewelry styles?" Effie opened her sketchbook with practiced ease, ready to take notes.

    Isabel''s gaze lingered on Effie''s face for a moment, then she smiled, her tone tinged with arrogance. "Designer Bagnold, I assume you''re a professional? After all, I''m a public figure¡ªI can''t just have any amateur working for me. I need someone with real expertise."

    Effie hesitated for an instant, catching the edge in Isabel''s voice.

    "Miss Isabel, rest assured, I''ll design jewelry that perfectly matches your taste and personality. If you''re not satisfied, you''re always wee to choose someone else."

    Effie''s reply was calm and poised, not a hint of nervousness in her demeanor.

    A flicker of intrigue shed in Isabel''s eyes. "Actually, my requirements are simple, Designer Bagnold-what I want is something unique, something unforgettable. Next month''s awards g is a big deal for me. I need to be the center of attention."

    Effie nodded, earnest and focused. "Understood. I''ll highlight your personal charm in the design and incorporate distinctive elements to ensure the piece is both elegant and striking."

    Isabel smiled, her words carrying a hidden meaning. "I trust you¡ªafter all, I think we see things the same way."

    If Effie didn''t catch the undercurrent in Isabel''s remark, she might as well have slept through thest twenty-odd years of her life.

    Clearly, Isabel already knew her true identity and had sought her out on purpose. Effie kept her cool, responding lightly, "I think everyone appreciates beautiful things."

    The calmer Effie appeared, the more Isabel seemed to seethe inside.

    Well, soon enough, everyone would see whether Effie actually had any talent.

    If she really got this job through connections, what right did she have to stick around? And if this woman ended up embarrassing Lyman, why would he ever keep her by his side?

    "Let''s hope you can deliver something truly stunning, Designer Bagnold," Isabel said, her tone almost challenging.

    "I''ll do my best. I''ll send you the first draft in three days." Effie''s manner was strictly professional.

    "Then I''ll be waiting to hear from you." Isabel''s voice was cool as she got up. "And one more thing, Designer Bagnold-just a word of advice. Don''t waste your time chasing after things that don''t belong to you."

    "Don''t worry, Miss Isabel," Effie replied evenly. "What''s yours will be yours. If it isn''t meant to be, there''s no point forcing it."

    Isabel left in a huff, her frustration almost palpable.

    Effie let out a quiet sigh-Isabel really hadn''t wasted any time making her move.

    Still, Effie couldn''t help feeling a bit apprehensive. Isabel was clearly not someone to take lightly, and who knew what she''d pull next?

    But since Lyman hadn''t said anything, Effie decided to y dumb and let things y out.

    As she was clocking out, Effie''s phone buzzed-it was her mother-inw, Lindy, calling.

    "Hi, Mom..."

    "Effie, I tried calling Lyman but he didn''t pick up. When you finish work,e home together for dinner. I made a special soup for you," Lindy said warmly. Whenever she made something good, Lindy always thought of Effie first.

    Effie''s heart softened. "Thank you, Mom. We''ll head over after work. Lyman''s probably in a meeting."

    "Hmph, just like him-always working, never thinking of anything else," Lindy grumbled.

    Effieughed. "Alright, Mom, I''ll see you soon. We''ll be home a bitter." "Alright, dear."

    After hanging up, Effie sent Lyman a quick message to let him know they needed to go to his family''s ce for dinner.

    Lyman replied almost immediately, telling her to wait for him at the corner outside her office.

    A short whileter, when Effie stepped out, she spotted Lyman''s car waiting just up the street.

 Chapter 90

    Today, Lyman was driving a ck Cayenne.

    Effie nced around, making sure there was no one she knew nearby, then hurried into the car.

    Lyman caught the furtive way she moved and couldn''t help but smirk. "What''s with the sneaking around? Am I such a shameful secret?"

    Effie gave an awkward chuckle, trying to exin, "I just want to avoid any unnecessary trouble. Oh, and let''s stop by Butterbeam first-I want to pick up some nut cake for Mom. She loves it."

    Effie was always thoughtful like that. Every time she visited the old family house, she''d bring along everyone''s favorite treats.

    Of course, the Etheridge family wanted for nothing. Effie knew that bringing gifts wasn''t about necessity; it was simply a gesture of care.

    Lyman felt a quiet warmth at Effie''s considerate nature and understanding.

    After they set off, Effie made a stop at a century-old bakery. She picked up a box of nut cake and a ssic cheesecake.

    The pastries were beautifully made and just lightly sweetened-perfect for older folks.

    With everything packed up, they headed back to the old house together.

    The drive was smooth, ending as they pulled into the courtyard. Effie was the first to step out.

    Just then, Lindy emerged from the house, her face lit up with a weing smile.

    Her eyes were fixed on Effie as she hurried over, taking her hand warmly. "Effie, you''re here! I had Lacey make you some nourishing broth, with plenty of good herbs to keep you healthy."

    "That sounds wonderful, Mom. I''ll have an extra bowl, thank you." Effie''s heart felt full. "And I brought you some nut cake, your favorite."

    "Oh my, you''re the best daughter-inw. Always thinking of me! I was just craving something sweet."

    The two of them linked arms affectionately, more like mother and daughter than inws.

    Lyman still hadn''t gotten out of the car, but he was entirely-if good-naturedly- ignored.

    He shook his head with a helpless smile.

    Clearly, his mother''s heart belonged to her daughter-inw now; her own son was second fiddle.

    Inside, Lindy turned to Effie. "Has that rascal been treating you right?"

    Lindy had already seen thetest headlines.

    Isabel was back.

    The news had made quite a ssh, maybe even intentionally so.

    It felt like she was just here to stir up trouble.

    Lindy had never liked Isabel. The girl''s ambition was written all over her face¡ª restless, always scheming, not the kind of woman to settle down.

    Still, if her son liked Isabel, Lindy told herself she''d just look the other way.

    But Lyman had never seemed taken with her.

    Yet, he''d given Isabel plenty of opportunities and support.

    Lindy couldn''t make sense of it.

    In any case, she''d made up her mind-Effie was the only daughter-inw she''d ever acknowledge.

    She wouldn''t let anyone mess that up.

    That''s why she''d had Lymane home today-to remind him where things stood.

    "Don''t worry, Mom. Lyman''s been wonderful to me," Effie said sincerely.

    She guessed her mother-inw must have seen the news and was worried there might be tension between her and Lyman-that''s probably why she''d called them home.

    It was so thoughtful of her.

    Lyman hadn''t mentioned a word, and Effie decided to let it be.

    She knew Lyman well enough: he was always upfront, never the type to sneak around.

    "That''s good to hear. But if that rascal ever does wrong by you, youe to me, all right? I''ll have a word with him¡ªor smack him with a stick if I have to! Don''t go easy on him, and if he ever crosses the line, don''t get angry by yourself, just tell me," Lindy said,ying down her rules with a smile.

    She genuinely worried her slow-witted son might drive away her wonderful daughter-inw.

    "Alright, Mom, I promise. Don''t get yourself worked up. How have you been feelingtely? Any difort?" Effie steered the conversation gently.

    "I''m perfectly fine, don''t worry." Lindy nodded reassuringly.

    Soon, Lyman finally made his way inside.

    He spotted a deep, dark bowl of soup on the dining table. The fragrant aroma of herbs hung in the air, and he couldn''t help but twitch the corner of his mouth in amusement...

 Chapter 91

    Lindy and Effie made their way to the dining table.

    Friedman was out at a work event, so he wouldn''t be joining them for dinner.

    That left just the three of them to eat together.

    Lindy noticed the look of distaste on Lyman''s face as he eyed the bowl in front of him, his brow furrowed in obvious displeasure. With thinly veiled annoyance, she said, "I made this especially for you. Hurry up and drink it."

    Lyman didn''t budge.

    Seeing this, Effie tried to coax him. "Your mom went through the trouble of making it just for you. You really should drink it-don''t let her effort go to waste."

    Let her effort go to waste?

    Lyman nced at Effie, a slow, wry smile tugging at his lips. "Do you really want me to drink it?"

    Effie hesitated, confused by his tone. Still, Lindy had put so much care into making the soup¡ªwouldn''t it be wrong if he refused? She nodded earnestly. "Of course!"

    Lyman''s smile widened as he replied, "Don''t regret itter."

    With that, he picked up the bowl,dled out the soup, and downed it in one long gulp.

    Afterwards, everyone settled down for dinner.

    During the meal, Lindy suddenly remembered something. "Effie, there''s an Afternoon Tea Social next weekend. Are you free? I''d like to bring you along."

    She figured it wouldn''t hurt for Effie to start getting used to these sorts of gatherings. Even though Lindy herself wasn''t particrly fond of small talk and formalities, some events were simply unavoidable.

    Effie paused for a moment, then quickly replied, "I''m free next weekend, Mom. I''ll go with you."

    In fact, Effie had some experience with tea etiquette. Back when she was with Mitchell, she''d learned how strict the Lloyd family could be about traditions- everything from tea service to flower arranging and table settings had its own set of rules. Determined to fit in, Effie had sought out a professional instructor and picked things up quickly thanks to her natural talent.

    Now, attending these sorts of social events was second nature to her.

    After dinner, when it was gettingte, Lyman and Effie prepared to head home.

    Just before they left, Lindy pulled Effie aside and, with a conspiratorial air, pressed a beautifully wrapped gift bag into her hands. "Take this home and open itter," she whispered.

    Effie was left scratching her head in confusion, but she thanked her mother-inw and headed out with Lyman.

    On the drive home, Effie noticed a flush creeping up Lyman''s cheeks.

    That''s odd, she thought. It wasn''t particrly hot tonight, but something about Lyman seemed off.

    By the time they got home, Lyman''s face was burning red, and his breathing had grown shallow and quick. Unable to ignore it any longer, Effie asked, "Lyman, are you alright? Are you feeling sick?"

    He didn''t answer-just loosened his tie and looked at her with an unfocused, almost feverish gaze.

    Effie''s concern spiked. Something definitely wasn''t right.

    "Sit down. I''ll get you some water,¡± she said, hurrying into the kitchen.

    When she returned, Lyman was sprawled on the sofa, eyes closed, brow pinched with difort, and a sheen of sweat breaking out across his forehead.

    He hadn''t expected his mother''s concoction to be this potent. He knew it was some sort of herbal tonic meant to "boost his vitality," but he hadn''t realized just how strong it was. All he could do was offer a bitter smile¡ªclearly, his mother was very eager for a grandchild.

    "Lyman, are you sure you''re okay? Maybe we should go to the hospital?" Effie was starting to panic. She reached out to touch his forehead and was shocked by how hot he felt.

    Oh no-was he sick?

    Suddenly, Lyman''s eyes snapped open. He caught her wrist in his hand, his voice low and rough. "Effie, do you really not know what was in that soup?"

    Effie froze, shaking her head in bewilderment. "The soup? What about it? Didn''t your mom say it was just a nourishing broth? Wasn''t it?"

    In a sh, she remembered the mysterious soup Lyman had drunk at dinner, and

    the secretive way Lindy had handed her that gift bag. Dread crept up her spine- could it be what she was starting to suspect?

 Chapter 92

    Effie''s cheeks flushed scarlet in an instant.

    Lyman let out a dry, rueful chuckle, his gazeplicated as he looked at her. "Nourishing soup? Oh, that was her special little ''energy booster'' for me."

    Effie suddenly understood, her face burning even brighter. "What? Mom-she... how could she do that!"

    Lyman released her hand and rubbed his temples, his tone resigned. "She''s been desperate for a grandchild, you know that. I just didn''t expect her to go this far."

    Effie was mortified, wishing she could sink right through the floor. She nced at Lyman, guilt gnawing at her when she saw how ufortable he looked. "I''m sorry. I had no idea there was something in the soup. I even encouraged you to drink it..."

    Lyman shook his head, offering her a weak smile. "It''s not your fault. You couldn''t have known."

    Honestly, he couldn''t even me Lindy. Isabel had juste back, stirring up all kinds of trouble. Lindy just wanted to take the initiative-she was worried Isabel might try toe between them. So, she''d made that ridiculous soup, probably afraid her own son would prove useless when it really mattered.

    A heavy silence settled over the room, awkward and tense.

    Just then, the bag Effie had brought in toppled over. Its contents spilled onto the floor-a slinky set of lingerie, a bottle of perfume, and a handwritten note: "Go get ''em! Give me a grandchild soon!"

    Effie''s blush deepened all the way to her ears. She scrambled to shove everything back into the bag.

    When she looked up, she found Lyman staring at her, his eyes dark and intent. "Effie..." His voice was low and rough, a tremor of restraint running through it. Her heart hammered in her chest. Instinctively, she took a step back. "Lyman, just -calm down, okay? I''ll go get you something to counteract it¡ª¡±

    She turned to escape, but Lyman caught her by the wrist. His palm was burning hot, his grip gentle but inescapable. With a tug, Effie tumbled right onto hisp.

    "Effie, do you really want me to calm down?" His breath was warm in her ear, his voice coaxing.

    Effie''s heart raced even faster. She knew she should push him away, but her body refused to move.

    She bit her lip, whispering, "Lyman, we shouldn''t...¡±

    He let out a softugh, his breath tickling her skin. "We''re married. There''s nothing wrong with this. Besides are you really telling me you don''t want to?"

    Effie''s mind was a mess, torn between two voices-one telling her this wasn''t right, the other urging her on. You''re married, what''s there to worry about?

    Just as she hesitated, Lyman suddenly released her and pulled back, exhaling shakily. "Forget it. I don''t want to force you."

    Effie froze, surprised by the flicker of disappointment in her chest.

    She watched him, saw how hard he was fighting to keep himself together, and her heart twisted. She knew Lyman always respected her boundaries¡ªeven now, when it was clearly difficult for him, he wouldn''t push her.

    "Lyman..." she called softly, her voice tinged with guilt.

    He waved her off with a tired smile. "I''m going to take a cold shower. You should get some rest."

    He turned and walked toward the bathroom, his shoulders heavy with defeat.

    Effie stood rooted to the spot, her emotions a tangled mess. She looked down at the bag in her hands, took a shaky breath, and finally made up her mind.

    "Lyman, wait!" Effie hurried after him, grabbing his hand before he could disappear.

    He turned, surprise flickering in his eyes. "What is it?"

    Effie''s face was as red as a ripe apple, her voice barely above a whisper. ¡°I... I don''t want you to be alone. We''re married... and I''m ready. If you are..."

 Chapter 93

    How embarrassing!

    Lyman''s gaze suddenly grew intense, his eyes burning as he gripped her hand tightly. His voice was low and rough. "Effie, are you sure?"

    Effie nodded, nervous but certain. She didn''t want to run away anymore.

    Lyman didn''t say another word. He simply pulled her gently into his arms and kissed her.

    His warm breath brushed against her neck, sending a shiver of tingling electricity through her.

    His kiss was both gentle and hungry,ced with a longing that had been held back for too long.

    Effie''s heart pounded, her hands instinctively finding his shoulders as she melted into his embrace.

    Their breaths mingled, the air between them thick with anticipation.

    Lyman''s hand traced the curve of her back, his fingertips radiating heat through the thin fabric of her shirt, making her shiver uncontrobly.

    Her mind went blissfully nk. All she could feel was this man and the storm of emotions he brought with him.

    "Effie..." Lyman whispered her name, his forehead pressed to hers, his breath uneven. "You''re really sure you won''t regret this?"

    She looked up and met his gaze¡ªthose deep, gentle eyes full of hope.

    Effie bit her lip and shook her head. "I won''t... We''re married. This is how it''s supposed to be."

    A slow smile tugged at Lyman''s lips. He kissed her again, harder this time, as if he wanted to draw herpletely into his world.

    The intensity left Effie dizzy, her body turning to jelly as she leaned into him, letting him lead her.

    His hands slid down to her waist, and with a gentle but firm touch, he scooped her up in his arms.

    Effie gave a startled gasp, instinctively wrapping her arms around his neck and burying her face in his chest, too flustered to look at him.

    "Lyman...¡± she whispered, her voice trembling with nerves.

    "Don''t be scared. I''m right here," he murmured, his tone deep and reassuring, calming her fears.

    Carrying Effie, Lyman strode toward the bedroom, every movement steady and sure, as if she were the most precious thing in the world.

    He closed the door behind them, leaving only the soft glow of themp and the sound of their mingled breaths. Lymanid Effie gently on the bed and leaned over her, his gaze tender and smoldering.

    "I''ll be gentle. There''s no need to be nervous," he promised softly, every word wrapped in reassurance.

    Effie''s cheeks burned crimson, but she summoned her courage and nodded. "I trust you."

    Lyman''s smile deepened, and he kissed her once more.

    Effie closed her eyes and let herself drown in his tenderness.

    Night deepened, and the only sounds left in the room were their quiet breathing and whispered words.

    When morning came, Effie woke to find herself nestled in Lyman''s arms.

    He held her close, his breathing slow and peaceful, still deep in sleep.

    Effie shifted, trying to slip away, but his embrace only tightened.

    "It''s the weekend. Sleep a little longer," Lyman mumbled, sleepily pulling her even closer without opening his eyes.

    Effie blushed again but stayed where she was, listening to the steady beat of his heart.

    Memories ofst night lingered sweetly in her mind, filling her with warmth and contentment.

    Everything had happened so naturally, as if it was always meant to be.

    Effie loved this feeling.

    Afterst night, something between them had changed-they were closer than

    ever.

    And whatever doubts she''d had before, those old shadows cast by Isabel, had vanished like morning mist.

 Chapter 94

    After a while, Lyman finally opened his eyes. He looked down at her, a soft smile ying at his lips. "Good morning, Mrs. Etheridge."

    Effie''s cheeks flushed pink as she murmured back, "Good morning..."

    Lyman leaned in and pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead, his tone warm and teasing. "Say it-call me ''husband.""

    Blushing even harder, Effie shyly whispered, "Husband."

    The word clearly pleased Lyman-he couldn''t hide the effect she had on him. "Thank you. That makes me very happy."

    Effie''s face turned an even deeper shade of red as she mumbled, "Why are you thanking me...? We''re married. That''s what married people do."

    Lyman just chuckled and pulled her closer, saying nothing more.

    For a few long, quiet minutes, they simplyy there together, soaking in the rare sense of peace and intimacy.

    Eventually, Effie''s stomach grumbled, breaking the silence. Lymanughed and sat up. "I forgot you must be hungry. Why don''t you rest a little longer? I''ll make us some breakfast."

    "I should get up too. Nita''s meeting me for a little shopping this afternoon," Effie said, pushing herself up despite the deep ache in her body-it felt like she''d been run over by a truck.

    After she finished washing up, she found Lyman already setting out breakfast in the kitchen.

    "Once we eat, I''ll drive you into town," Lyman said as he poured her a cup of coffee. "I''m meeting Vinson Elliottter anyway."

    Effie nodded. "Alright."

    Still, afterst night''s intimacy, Effie couldn''t help feeling a little self-conscious around him. She kept her head down as they ate, cheeks tinged pink.

    After breakfast, Effie changed into a long dress that covered her from neck to ankle, then applied a touch of makeup before heading out.

    She met Nita at the entrance of Neo-Arcadia''s most luxurious mall. Nita spotted her right away and waved her over with a grin.

    As Effie walked up, Nita gave her a once-over and teased, "Well, well. There''s a certain glow about a woman in love. You''re positively radiant this morning!"

    Nita winked at her, her smile full of sly amusement.

    Effie''s face turned crimson as she nudged Nita''s arm. "Oh, stop it. I''m no different than usual. Don''t exaggerate."

    "I''m not exaggerating," Nita insisted, looping her arm through Effie''s and lowering her voice. "Look at you your cheeks are so rosy, like you''ve been dusted with blush. Did something happenst night? Lyman sure looked¡ª"

    ¡°Nita!¡± Effie interrupted, mortified, her ears burning.

    Nita onlyughed harder at her embarrassment. "Alright, alright, I''ll drop it. But seriously, Lyman is so attentive to you. He even insisted on driving you himself. I''m jealous!"

    Effie pressed her lips together, a little smile tugging at the corners, but she kept up herposure. "He was just heading the same way. Don''t read into it."

    Nita raised an eyebrow. "Please. When does a man as busy as Lyman ever ''happen'' to be going your way? Just admit it, you''re lucky."

    Effie couldn''t help butugh, shaking her head in resignation. "Enough about me.

    You didn''t drag me out just to tease me, did you?"

    "Of course not! We''re shopping. I need a new purse, and I want your expert opinion," Nita said, pulling her along.

    Nita always relied on Effie''s designer''s eye when it came to fashion.

    "Alright, let''s go," Effie said, linking arms with her.

    As they walked, Effie suddenly remembered¡ªon the day they got their marriage certificate, she''d nced at Lyman''s birthdate. His birthday wasing up in just a few days.

    Maybe she should start thinking about what to get him for a present.

 Chapter 95

    Effie and Nita headed straight for the luxury boutiques on the top floor.

    Nita had just been promoted to sales manager, and with her ster performance this quarter, she''d earned a generousmission. She decided it was time to treat herself.

    They made a beeline for a designer handbag store.

    Effie immediately spotted a bag in the disy window-a chic, te-blue tote with a subtle, upscale hue.

    Nita had mentioned before that she wanted a stylish, everyday tote, and this one seemed perfect.

    Effie pointed it out, grinning. "Nita, what do you think of that one? The color''s understated but elegant-totally your style."

    Nita followed Effie''s gaze and her eyes lit up. "Wow, that one''s gorgeous! I''ve been looking for a tote like this, but I could never find the right color until now."

    They walked into the store, where a sales associate greeted them warmly.

    Nita didn''t hesitate. "Could I see that bag in the window, please?"

    The associate smiled as she took down the bag and handed it over. "You have a great eye, ma''am. This is one of ourtest designs. The color is unique, and it''s very lightweight-perfect for everyday wear."

    Nita tried the bag on her shoulder, turning to Effie. "Well? What do you think?"

    Effie nodded. "It''s perfect for you. The color suits you, and the size is just right¡ª not too big, not too small. Practical, but still fashionable."

    Nita beamed at thepliment and turned to the associate. "I''ll take it. Could you wrap it up for me?"

    "Of course. Just a moment, please," the associate replied with a smile.

    Nita quickly paid, then she and Effie left the shop, her new bag in hand.

    As they walked past a men''s essories store, Effie''s gazended on the window disy. Lyman''s birthday wasing up, and the thought gave her pause.

    She wandered over to the disy case, eyes scanning the selection until a pair of diamond cufflinks caught her attention.

    They were set with high-quality diamonds-ssic, refined, and quietly luxurious. Just Lyman''s style.

    Noticing Effie''s interest, Nita sidled up beside her. "Thinking about getting something for Lyman?"

    Effie blushed, lowering her voice. "His birthday''s in a few days. I was just wondering if I should get him something. What do you think of these cufflinks?"

    It had been love at first sight for her.

    Nita raised an eyebrow, giving Effie a teasing, knowing look. "Wow, already nning his birthday gift? Looks like things are going well between you two."

    Effie gave her a gentle shove. "Don''t make things up. I just thought...well, we are married now. It''s only right to get him a present."

    Nita nodded, feigning seriousness. "Absolutely. And these cufflinks are perfect- ssy, understated, and very much his style. Plus, every time he wears them, he''ll think of you."

    Effie''s cheeks flushed even deeper. "Stop it. You''re ridiculous."

    Still, she couldn''t deny that the cufflinks felt just right.

    "I''ll take these diamond cufflinks, please," Effie said.

    Just as she spoke, another gentle voice chimed in, also indicating the same pair.

    Effie paused, turning to see a familiar figure.

    Her brows knitted together. Of all people.

    Talk about running into trouble. She really should have checked her horoscope before leaving the house-otherwise, how else could she have run into Isabel again?

    Isabel seemed surprised to see Effie, but quickly recovered, speaking coolly. "Well, if it isn''t Designer Bagnold. Seems our tastes are still as simr as ever."

    Both women had set their sights on the same pair of cufflinks.

 Chapter 96

    Effie''s smile was polite but distant. "It is a bit of a coincidence, isn''t it? Still, firste, first served, Miss Isabel. I''m afraid you''ll have to forgive me."

    The cufflinks from this brand were rare-each design one of a kind, only a single pair in existence.

    Isabel regarded Effie coolly. "Miss Bagnold, forcing something that doesn''t belong to you is pointless. I''m sure you''ve seen the news, so let''s not pretend anymore."

    Effie raised an eyebrow at that. Oh? So we''re dropping all pretenses now?

    Before, Isabel had only hinted at things; now she was spelling them out. Effie couldn''t really me her for being so anxious. Carole had her people look into it and found out that Lyman and Effie were already living together.

    That morning, Lyman himself had driven Effie out.

    What exactly was their rtionship? Lovers?

    Isabel was thrownpletely off by the revtion. She''d always thought Lyman was reserved, emotionally distant, uninterested in romance.

    Yet now he was living with Effie? It was thest thing Isabel had expected.

    Back then, she''d been the only woman in Lyman''s life.

    How could Isabel possibly ept this? If Effie had been some remarkable woman from an impressive family, maybe she would have understood. But Effie was so

    ordinary, the kind of girl you''d pass on any street.

    What did Effie have that let her be with Lyman?

    Nita had also seen the entertainment news. She''d meant to ask Effie about it, but the conversation had drifted and she''d forgotten. Now, seeing Isabel''s aggressive stance, Nita''s brow furrowed.

    "Has the world really turned upside down? Homewreckers used to hide in the shadows, afraid of getting caught and shamed. Now they strut right up to the wife and unt it? When did things change so much?"

    Isabel''s expression darkened. "Just who are you calling a homewrecker? The person unloved in a rtionship is the real outsider."

    Effie''s tone was cold. "So you and Lyman are in love?"

    Once, she wouldn''t have dared to challenge Isabel like this. Butst night had changed everything-she and Lyman had truly be husband and wife.

    She could sense how special she was to Lyman, how he treated her like something precious.

    After spending time with him, Effie knew Lyman wasn''t the type to y around. He was steady, thoughtful. If he truly loved Isabel, why would he have married Effie? He''d always said marriage wasn''t a game.

    Last night, when things grew most passionate, Effie thought-maybe it was just her imagination-but she was almost sure she''d heard him whisper "I love you" in her ear.

    In that moment, with her heart racing and her mind spinning, all she could hear was his low, gentle voice. The words lingered in her heart, leaving a mark she couldn''t describe.

    She wasn''t sure if she''d imagined it, but the feeling was unforgettable.

    Isabel''s face shifted at Effie''s question, but she quickly regained herposure. She let out a coldugh, her voice edged with mockery. "Effie, do you really think Lyman loves you? He married you because his family was pressuring him, and I needed to focus on my career."

    "Lyman invested in my films, my shows. If anything happened to me, he''d be the first one there. But don''t just take my word for it-wait and see." Isabel''s tone brimmed with confidence.

    Effie felt her heart sink.

    Why was Isabel so sure of herself?

    Was there really something between her and Lyman that Effie didn''t know about?

 Chapter 97

    Effie felt as if something had grabbed her heart and twisted hard. Her breath quickened, anxiety rising in her chest.

    But she didn''t let it show.

    Her expression remained calm,posed. She trusted Lyman.

    "Yeah, let''s just wait and see," she replied coolly.

    Without another word, Effie called over the sales associate and asked them to wrap up the cufflinks. She paid for them immediately.

    Honestly, every extra minute spent in that store made the air feel stifling.

    Isabel could only re in frustration as Effie walked out, cufflinks in hand.

    Damn it!

    Watching Effie''s retreating figure, Isabel clenched her fists so tightly her knuckles turned white.

    With their shopping finished, Effie and Nita had no desire to linger. They headed straight home.

    Meanwhile, after dropping Effie off at the mall, Lyman headed to his own appointment.

    Vinson Elliott had been trying to meet with him for ages, but Lyman always turned him down.

    Unless it was absolutely necessary, Lyman made it a point to go home right after work. After all, if he didn''t show up, Effie would just ck off and eat whatever she could find.

    The meeting was set at an exclusive private club-one of those upscale ces that opened early on weekends so people could y cards, get a massage, unwind a bit.

    Lyman wasn''t surprised. If anyone would pick a ce like this, it was Vinson Elliott. He knew the man far too well.

    When Lyman arrived, Vinson greeted him with exaggerated enthusiasm. "Look who finally made time for us-our very own superstar!"

    He pulled Lyman over to the best spot on the sofa.

    Lyman shot him a mild, unimpressed look, and Vinson immediately zipped his lips.

    ¡°All right, all right, I''ll stop,¡± Vinson said, raising his hands in surrender.

    In the private lounge, a few men lounged in casual clothes, smoke curlingzily from their fingers.

    Vinson offered Lyman a cigarette.

    Lyman shook his head without hesitation. "I''ve quit."

    "What? Quit smoking?" Vinson nearly jumped out of his seat in disbelief.

    Lyman nced at him, cool as ever. "Is that so strange?"

    "Lyman, did something happen? Are you all right?" Vinson asked, a hint of concern in his voice.

    When Lyman didn''t answer, Vinson''s eyes suddenly lit up. "Wait a minute-is it because of your wife?"

    ¡°She doesn''t like the smell,¡± Lyman replied, his voice deep, steady, with a trace of something private glimmering in his eyes.

    There''d been this one time, after a work dinner, when Lyman came home reeking of smoke. Effie had leaned in and wrinkled her nose ever so slightly.

    That was all it took-Lyman knew she hated the smell. Since then, he''d made a point to avoid it.

    He''d never been a heavy smoker anyway, just the asional one at business events, so quitting wasn''t a struggle.

    Vinson stared at Lyman as if he were apletely different person.

    So this was it-Lyman had fallen, and he''d fallen hard.

    Vinson''s expression grewplicated. Of all people, he''d never expected Lyman -the least likely candidate for romance-to be the one head over heels.

    It was almost unbelievable.

    The others in the room were just as stunned.

    Lyman was serious this time.

    "Man, Lyman, you''re gone," Vinson eximed.

    Lyman just smiled, a little wistful. "Don''t you guys think married life can be pretty great?"

    As he spoke,st night''s memory flickered through his mind-leaving him with a feeling he couldn''t quite shake.

    Everyone looked at him as if he''d started speaking in tongues.

    Vinson stayed silent, taking two long drags from his cigarette, trying to clear his head.

    Then, out of the corner of his eye, he noticed something on Lyman''s neck¡ªa faint, reddish mark. Wait, was that...?

    Yep. A love bite.

    Vinson''s lips twitched. He felt almost scandalized.

    Lyman didn''t stay long. When he saw the time, he called Effie and found out she was ready to head home.

 Chapter 98

    Lyman stood up too, ready to leave.

    Everyone stared at him in disbelief.

    He''d barely arrived-why was he leaving already?

    "Lyman, don''t tell me you''re one of those guys whose wife keeps him on a tight leash?"

    "You single guys wouldn''t understand. I''m heading out," Lyman replied, then walked away without another word.

    The remaining men exchanged bewildered nces, left in the wake of his abrupt exit.

    Meanwhile, after Effie and Nita parted ways, Effie received a call from Lyman.

    She''d nned to grab a cab home, but Lyman told her he was done with work and would pick her up.

    So Effie waited by the curb.

    Since it wasn''t Lyman''s birthday yet, she tucked his present back into her purse, saving it for a surpriseter.

    Before long, Lyman''s car pulled up.

    Effie slid into the passenger seat and said, "You know, I could''ve just taken a cab."

    "It''s no trouble. I just finished up, and it''s on my way," Lyman replied, already steering the car smoothly into traffic.

    Effie couldn''t help but notice his hands on the wheel-long, strong fingers, the knuckles defined. There was something grounding about the way he drove, so steady and calm.

    She found herself stealing a few nces, silently marveling at how this man managed to make everything feel so safe, no matter what he was doing.

    The car glided through the city, Lyman''s profile sharp against the afternoon light.

    "So, howe you finished so early today?" Effie couldn''t help but ask, her curiosity getting the better of her.

    Lyman turned his head slightly, a subtle smile tugging at his lips. "Just catching up with some friends-nothing important."

    Besides, nothing was more important than her.

    Effie felt a warm glow in her chest, her cheeks involuntarily flushing.

    She lowered her head, her voice soft. "Really, I could''ve managed on my own.

    You didn''t have to go out of your way."

    "It''s fine. You matter more," he said simply.

    Her face turned bright red.

    She never expected Lyman could be so sweet.

    Her cheeks stayed flushed the whole ride.

    ...

    Soon, it was time for the Afternoon Tea Social.

    That afternoon, Lindy brought Effie along to the hotel where the gathering was being held.

    Afternoon Tea Social, as the name implied, was a gathering devoted to tea and conversation.

    It was an event organized by thedies of high society, the wives of wealthy businessmen and socialites.

    While men enjoyed their cars and rare whiskeys, women loved luxury goods- designer handbags, cosmetics, thetest fashions.

    But to show their sophistication, these women now preferred hosting Afternoon Teas and dessert socials, gatherings where they could mingle and subtly showcase their refined tastes.

    It didn''t really matter if everyone liked tea-what mattered was knowing about it.

    This event was especially popr, and the guests had all dressed to the nines.

    Wherever women gathered, there was always a bit of drama, and today''s Afternoon Tea Social promised to be lively.

    The hotel''s grand ballroom had been transformed into an elegant salon, decorated with impable taste.

    A long tea table stood at the center, adorned with every kind of teapot and cup imaginable-delicate porcin, ssic stoneware, each piece carefully selected.

    At one end, kettles simmered with fresh spring water.

    Lindy wore a graceful silk gown, understated yet refined, a jade bracelet encircling her wrist. She walked in with Effie on her arm, greeting familiar faces with a warm smile.

    She was clearly in high spirits.

    In the past, Lindy hadn''t cared much for these events; her unique status meant people were always trying to curry favor, which she found exhausting.

    She generally preferred peace and quiet.

    But now things were different-she finally had a daughter-inw to show off, and

    she wasn''t about to miss the opportunity.

    Today, Lindy absolutely glowed with pride.

 Chapter 99

    Effie wore a pale blue dress that fell just below her knees, its hem embroidered with magnolia blossoms in shimmering silver thread. The delicate floral patternplemented her fresh, understated beauty, lending her a gentle and graceful

    air.

    On her wrist was a palevender jade bracelet, a gift from Lyman, which she wore with quiet elegance.

    She''d taken special care with her hair that morning, pinning up her long locks with a vintage hairpin.

    Everything about her looked refined, tasteful, and perfectly in keeping with the afternoon''s tea party theme.

    The moment Effie and Lindy entered the room, all eyes turned to them.

    "Mrs. Etheridge, and who is this?" A middle-aged woman in a deep navy gown approached, her gaze sweeping appraisingly over Effie before she smiled politely. Lindy returned the smile and patted Effie''s hand affectionately. "This is my dear daughter-inw, Effie."

    Effie offered a courteous smile and nodded. "It''s lovely to meet you."

    A flicker of surprise crossed the woman''s face, quickly reced by a gracious smile. "What a striking couple you two make. Miss Bagnold, you have such a lovely presence-no wonder Mr. Etheridge is so smitten."

    Effie''s cheeks flushed a soft pink. "You''re too kind," she replied modestly.

    At the long table, several young society women were already seated, each impably dressed, wrists adorned with luxury bracelets, fingers sparkling with diamond rings.

    As Effie approached, their gazesnded on her with a mix of curiosity and scrutiny.

    Just then, Adeline entered, trailed by Sigrid and Suzan.

    They immediately drew attention-especially Suzan, who wore a vibrant fuchsia gown that was as bold as it was form-fitting. Suzan had clearly put extra effort into her appearance that day, right down to the professionally styled hair.

    She swept her gaze across the room and spotted Effie almost at once. A slight frown creased her brow.

    Why is Effie here? She''d never attended events like this before. Since when did Effie have the right to show up at something as refined as an afternoon tea social?

    With that thought, Suzan purposefully made her way over.

    "Effie, what a surprise to see you here! Is this your first time at an Afternoon Tea Social?" she asked, her tone faux-friendly.

    Sigrid chimed in with a smirk, "Did they start letting just anyone in these days? I guess the standards are slipping."

    A couple of the other young women exchanged nces but soon one of them smiled and spoke up, "Miss Bagnold, so this is your first time joining us? What sort of tea do you usually enjoy?"

    Not missing the gloating look on Suzan''s face, Effie replied calmly, "I usually prefer green tea-something light and refreshing, with a subtle sweetness. It''s perfect for everyday sipping."

    "Oh, green tea is nice," another woman remarked, arching a brow with a hint of mockery. "Butpared to, say, Darjeeling or a fine aged Earl Grey, green tea does seem a bit... ordinary."

    Effie caught the undertone in her words and responded evenly, "There''s really no such thing as a ''superior'' tea. It''s all about what you enjoy the most. Everyone''s tastes are different, and that''s what makes it special."

    The woman was momentarily at a loss for words, her smile faltering.

    A few of the otherdies quickly stepped in to smooth things over. "Miss Bagnold is absolutely right. Tea is meant to be enjoyed-whatever brings you happiness." Suzan let out a quiet, derisiveugh. Effie might think she looked the part, but showing up here didn''t make her one of them. The real show was only just beginning.

    With most of the guests now present, the Afternoon Tea Social officially began, and everyone found their seats.

    Just then, Mrs. Smith, the organizer, stood up with an apologetic smile. "Ladies, I''m so sorry to interrupt, but unfortunately, the tea master we''d invited isn''t feeling well and had to cancel at thest minute. I know many of you are quite knowledgeable about tea. Would anyone be willing toe up and give a little demonstration for us?"

 Chapter 100

    The truth was, Mrs. Smith didn''t have much of a choice. She wasn''t expecting anyone to be a tea master-just someone who could exin a bit about tea culture, make a pot, and let everyone have a friendly exchange.

    No sooner had Mrs. Smith finished speaking than someone from the crowd suggested, "Why don''t we let the neer give us a demonstration today? The rest of us have all had our turns before."

    In an instant, every eye in the room turned to Effie.

    She was the only unfamiliar face at this afternoon''s gathering.

    A number of societydies shed mocking smiles, clearly relishing the spectacle. They''d noticed Effie had arrived with Mrs. Etheridge, and the jealousy in the room was almost palpable.

    Rumor had it this was Effie''s first time at the Afternoon Tea Social-surely she didn''t know the first thing about tea.

    Mrs. Etheridge had even mentioned when they arrived that she''d brought Effie along just to let her see how things worked in these circles.

    And now, being called up to demonstrate? It was the perfect setup for public embarrassment.

    Mrs. Smith found the suggestion reasonable enough and nced at Effie, silently hoping she would volunteer herself.

    Before Effie could say a word, Mrs. Etheridge spoke up in her defense. "It''s Effie''s first time here. Perhaps she could take a turn next time?"

    Mrs. Lloyd gave a cool, dismissive smile. "Oh, Mrs. Etheridge, it''s only a bit of friendly practice. No harm done, is there?"

    Truth be told, Mrs. Lloyd had never cared for Effie, which was why she''d never brought her to the Afternoon Tea Social before. She''d always thought Effie simply wasn''t the right fit for such asions.

    Never mind that Effie was dressed in an elegant evening gown today, looking every inch the part-at her core, Mrs. Lloyd still considered her beneath them.

    Now, Mrs. Lloyd was looking forward to the show, waiting to see what kind of fool Effie would make of herself. Would Mrs. Etheridge still defend her then?

    Mrs. Etheridge frowned slightly, ready to object, but Effie gently ced a hand over hers.

    "If everyone is kind enough to give me the opportunity, I''d be honored to try," Effie said graciously, her voice steady.

    She rose from her seat, a calm, confident smile on her lips, and walked gracefully toward the tea table at the front of the room. There was a lightness and poise in her step-no trace of nerves.

    Watching her, Mrs. Etheridge rxed, reassured by Effie''sposure. She''d always known Effie to be methodical and unppable.

    Suzan and Sigrid exchanged a smirk. They were itching to see Effie embarrass herself. After all, how could someone who''d never attended these socials possibly know anything about the art of tea?

    Effie reached the table, her gaze sweeping over the porcin and silver, then she smiled and began, "A single leaf falls into water, and suddenly the water is transformed. That''s how tea began."

    "These days, tea is a part of everyday life. But have you ever wondered when did it be so popr...?"

    Effie''s voice was warm and engaging as sheunched into the history of tea, sharing anecdotes and cultural tidbits. The room quickly fell under her spell.

    Suzan, Adeline, and Sigrid stared in disbelief.

    Was this really the Effie they knew, speaking so eloquently, weaving stories and historical references with such ease? She was more captivating than any instructor they''d had before-her voice melodious, her presence striking, a true pleasure to watch.

    Suzan could only hear the chorus ofpliments directed at Effie, and it made her burn with envy.

    Why was everyone singing Effie''s praises? She was certain Effie knew nothing about tea. Maybe she''d crammed a few facts beforeing today, just to get by.

    Hmph. Who did she think she was?

    Suzan''s eyes shed with resentment and jealousy. She was itching to expose Effie''s real self.

    "Excuse me, I have a question," Suzan suddenly interrupted, cutting Effie off.

 Chapter 101

    Everyone had been listening intently,pletely absorbed in the conversation, when suddenly they were interrupted. A few people couldn''t help but frown at the abrupt break.

    Mrs. Lloyd felt a wave of embarrassment wash over her.

    What on earth is wrong with Suzan?

    Doesn''t she know how rude it is to cut someone off like that? Hadn''t anyone taught her basic manners?

    Even though Mrs. Lloyd wasn''t particrly fond of Effie, there was a time and ce for everything, and Suzan''s behavior was out of line.

    Effie''s tone remained even. "Is there something you''d like to ask?"

    She had half-expected things wouldn''t go smoothly today.

    Suzan scoffed, "Everything you just said can be found on Google. What''s the point of talking theory? If you really know your stuff, why don''t you show everyone how you actually make tea?"

    As if anyone here couldn''t talk a good game. But making tea¡ªthat was another matter entirely.

    "Thank you for thepliment," Effie replied, her voice clear and gentle. "I''d be happy to show everyone how to make a proper pot of green tea.¡±

    The room quieted as everyone''s attention turned to her.

    Effie picked up a small y teapot, running her fingers thoughtfully over its surface before speaking. "The first step is to warm the pot."

    She poured hot water into the teapot and matching cups, swirling it gently. "Warming the pot and cups helps keep the tea at the right temperature and brings out the best aroma."

    She poured out the water with practiced ease, then measured a small handful of t, bright green tea leaves into the pot. "With green tea, the leaves are delicate and the temperature matters¡ªa little below boiling is best."

    Effie slowly poured the hot water over the leaves, her movements graceful and unhurried. The leaves unfurled, releasing a subtle fragrance.

    "Let it infuse for just half a minute or so," Effie exined, already pouring the pale golden tea into a small pitcher before dividing it among dainty cups. Her motions were smooth and confident-clearly, she knew what she was doing.

    "Please, enjoy,¡± Effie said, offering a cup to Mrs. Smith and Mrs. Etheridge before serving the otherdies present.

    Mrs. Smith epted her cup, inhaling the gentle scent before taking a sip. Her eyes lit up in surprise. "This is... exquisite. Such a delicate aroma, and the taste is so smooth and refreshing. Truly remarkable!"

    Mrs. Etheridge nodded in agreement, a proud smile appearing on her face. "Effie, I had no idea you were so skilled with tea."

    All her previous worries seemed so unnecessary now. Who would have thought her daughter-inw was such a treasure? The more she saw of Effie, the more she liked her.

    The otherdies tried the tea as well; even those secretly hoping to find fault were forced to admit that Effie''s technique was wless.

    Suzan and Sigrid''s expressions soured. They hadn''t expected Effie to actually know what she was doing, let alone perform so impressively.

    How could this be? It was almost unbelievable.

    Effie smiled gently and added, "You know, preparing tea isn''t just about technique. It''s also about cultivating a calm and mindful heart."

    "There''s no such thing as a ''superior'' or ''inferior'' tea-what matters is finding what you enjoy, and making it with care. Whether it''s green, ck, or oolong, if you make it with intention, it''ll always taste wonderful."

    As soon as she finished, Mrs. Smith led the apuse. "Beautifully said, Miss Bagnold! Making tea really is a kind of meditation."

    Suzan bit her lip, muttering to Sigrid, "I can''t believe she pulled that off. I really underestimated her."

    Sigrid gave a cold snort. "She just got lucky this time. Next time, it won''t be so easy."

 Chapter 102

    Either way, she couldn''t bring herself to believe that Effie was truly that impressive.

    Mrs. Etheridge came over and gently patted her hand. "Effie, you did wonderfully."

    Effie offered a modest smile and replied softly, "Mom, I just did my best. I hope I didn''t embarrass you."

    Seeing her humility, Mrs. Etheridge found herself growing even more fond of her daughter-inw.

    "Embarrass me? You made me proud," Mrs. Etheridge beamed, her joy unmistakable.

    She''d originally thought this event would be a chance for Effie to experience something new, but to her surprise, it was Effie who impressed everyone.

    Many guests, noticing how close the two seemed almost like mother and daughter-seized the opportunity toe over and strike up a conversation.

    It was clear to everyone that Effie had a special bond with the Etheridge family.

    What a remarkable woman she was!

    Across the room, Suzan clenched her hands so tightly her knuckles turned white, barely resisting the urge to stamp her foot in frustration.

    Just wait, she thought bitterly. She''d find a way to strike back sooner orter.

    It was eating her up inside¡ªespecially since Mitchell had been ignoring hertely. Once, after a few too many drinks, Mitchell had even called out Effie''s name in his sleep.

    For Suzan, it was a humiliation she couldn''t forgive.

    She''d spent that entire night awake, stewing in anger.

    She wanted nothing more than to confront Mitchell and demand if he still had feelings for that wretched woman.

    Suzan had always assumed that, after leaving Mitchell, Effie''s life would fall apart. She never expected Effie to have any real ability-let alone end up with someone like Lyman.

    The famous heir to the Lyman fortune.

    It was infuriating.

    She''d been so sure she''d get the upper hand at this event, but instead, Effie had stolen the show at the Afternoon Tea Social, leaving Suzan simmering with resentment.

    The gathering was winding down, the atmosphere rxed and cheerful, when a sudden flurry of excitement erupted by the ballroom doors.

    Effie nced over and saw Lyman stride in, looking effortlessly dashing in a crisp suit.

    His entrance immediately drew everyone''s attention-especially the socialites, who couldn''t hide their delight as their eyes followed his every move.

    Lyman headed straight for Effie and Lindy, offering a warm smile. "Mom, Effie, are you finished? I''vee to take you home."

    He''d tried calling Effie a few minutes earlier, but she hadn''t answered-no doubt caught up in the tea demonstration and missing her phone.

    After several unanswered calls, he''d grown anxious and decided toe over himself.

    Lindy looked at him in surprise. "What are you doing here? Didn''t you say you had something important today?"

    Lyman smiled, a little sheepish. "I wrapped things up early. I figured you''d be finishing soon, so I thought I''d swing by."

    Lindy couldn''t resist teasing him. "You never used to be this eager. I''d bet you''re really here to pick up your wife, aren''t you?"

    Lyman just grinned, not bothering to deny it.

    Effie''s cheeks flushed instantly at Lindy''s words.

    She looked up at Lyman''s handsome face, feeling warmth blossom in her chest.

    She knew he''de especially for her, worried she might not feelfortable in such a crowd.

    Lindy nodded approvingly, still smiling. "That works perfectly-we were just about to head out."

    All around them, the other socialites stared in disbelief.

    Did they really see what they thought they saw?

    Lyman was smiling.

    And what a gorgeous smile it was.

    But his eyes never left Effie, filled with unmistakable tenderness.

    Reaching out, Lyman gently took Effie''s hand. ¡°Let''s go."

    Effie nodded, letting him lead her toward the exit.

    Behind them, the other women continued to watch, their looks a mix of envy and admiration.

    Effie could feel their gazes following her all the way out, sharp and piercing as

    arrows.

 Chapter 103

    Stepping out of the hotel, Effie couldn''t help but release a sigh of relief.

    Lyman nced over at her, his voice gentle. "How are you holding up? Getting used to all this?"

    Effie managed a small smile. "I''m fine, really."

    He squeezed her hand, his tone warm. "You know, you never have to force yourself to attend these events if you don''t want to.¡±

    As far as Lyman was concerned, his wife only ever needed to be herself.

    Effie shook her head. "It''s alright. It''s good to get out and experience new things every now and then."

    He nodded. "Alright. Let''s go."

    Hand in hand, they walked away together.

    Across the room, Suzan''s eyes had never left Lyman. She watched, stunned, as he and Effie strolled off so intimately.

    So Effie had really managed to climb the socialdder.

    Suzan''s expression twisted, a tangle of disbelief and resentment. Damn it, how

    did Effie get so lucky?

    After Mitchell dumped her, wasn''t she supposed to be down and out?

    Hmph! That little vixen must have seduced Lyman.

    Mr. Etheridge probably still had no idea what she was really like.

    Lyman showing up at the Afternoon Tea Social, and leaving with Effie at his side, was nothing short of headline news and gossip spread like wildfire.

    After all, Lyman was famous for keeping his distance from women.

    Well, except for those old rumors about him and Isabel.

    Then again, for a man of his status, having a few women around was nothing out of the ordinary.

    The grapevine was buzzing.

    Meanwhile, Isabel heard the news almost instantly.

    A close friend of hers, who''d been at the Afternoon Tea Social, messaged her the moment it happened-fully aware that Lyman was the man Isabel had set her heart on.

    For years, Isabel had turned down every other suitor, convinced that Lyman was the only one for her.

    And now he was openly together with Effie, as if daring the world to talk. To Isabel, it was a p in the face.

    What did sheckpared to Effie?

    Isabel refused to believe Lyman could truly care about someone like her.

    And she certainly wasn''t about to let it happen.

    With a furious cry, Isabel hurled her phone onto the bed. Her chest heaved, eyes zing with rage and wounded pride.

    She stared at her reflection in the mirror: sharp, elegant features, a statuesque figure, every inch the picture of a socialite.

    She''d always believed she was the only woman worthy of standing beside Lyman. But now he was out there, hand in hand with someone else, shamelessly for all to

    see.

    "Effie..." Isabel spat the name between gritted teeth, her eyes darkening with malice. ¡°What right do you have?"

    "My God, Isabel, what happened this time? Calm down, sweetheart!" Carole rushed in, rmed by the chaos in the room, and immediately tried to soothe her.

    "Carole, I want Effie gone," Isabel hissed, her anger barely contained.

    "Don''t get worked up. That woman''s nothing to worry about. We''ll take our time and handle things smart," Carole said coolly. Years in show business had given her a knack for reading situations.

    Isabel was too emotional to think clearly, and it showed.

    She bit her lip, her eyes still burning with resentment. "But Carole, how can I just stand by and watch her take Lyman? What does she have? She''s a nobody-how can she stand next to him?"

    Carole sighed, moving to Isabel''s side and gently patting her shoulder. "Isabel, you have to understand-Lyman''s choices aren''t ours to make. If you do something reckless, you''ll only push him further away."

    Isabel pressed her lips together, forcing herself to breathe, to calm down. "Then what should I do?"

    Carole''s eyes gleamed with intrigue. "If you don''t have an opportunity to get close to him, then we''ll just have to create one."

 Chapter 104

    "What do you mean?" Isabel still didn''t get it.

    Carole leaned in and whispered quietly in her ear.

    ...

    The Next Morning

    When Effie woke up, Lyman had alreadyid out breakfast.

    She walked into the kitchen and couldn''t help but smile at the spread-scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, toast, and a bowl of nourishing soup. It was far more than she usually ate.

    "You really didn''t have to make all this," she said.

    "I wanted you to try everything. Go on, eat up. When you''re done, I''ll drive you to work," Lyman replied.

    Effie shook her head. "That''s okay, I''ll drive myself." She wasn''t ready for her coworkers to see Lyman dropping her off.

    "All right," Lyman said, relenting. "But if you need anything, just call me. Oh, and I have a dinner meeting tonight."

    "Okay, I''ll remember." Effie nodded, then sat down and ate breakfast with quiet poise.

    She left for the office soon after.

    The jewelry designs she''d been working on for Isabel were almost finished. Today, she needed to send the first draft for approval.

    As soon as she arrived at work, Effie threw herself into the day''s tasks.

    Around noon, her phone rang.

    She nced at the screen-a number she didn''t recognize. Probably a sales call, she thought, and ignored it.

    But the phone kept ringing, stubbornly refusing to be dismissed. Finally, she picked up.

    "Effie, it''s me." The familiar voice on the other end made her tense.

    She almost hung up immediately.

    "Don''t hang up. Come downstairs, let''s grab lunch together," Mitchell said.

    "I''m sorry, I''m really busy. Mitchell, we''re not together anymore," Effie replied, frowning.

    "If you don''te down, I''lle up and find you," Mitchell answered coolly.

    Unbelievable.

    Effie took a deep breath. "Fine. Meet me at nk te Coffee."

    She was curious-what did he want now? They had nothing to do with each other anymore.

    "Alright," Mitchell said, finally satisfied, and hung up.

    Truth be told, he didn''t even know why he insisted. Hearing that Effie was seeing Lyman had left him unsettled, and he needed to talk to her face-to-face.

    At lunch, Effie headed straight to nk te Coffee.

    She wore a soft beige dress that hugged her graceful figure, her long dark hair falling straight down her back. No shy jewelry, just a delicate silver chain around her neck.

    Mitchell had arrived early. When he saw Effie walk in, he paused-she seemed different. Softer, calmer, far more serene than he remembered.

    Effie sat down across from him, her expressionposed. "Say what you need to say. This is thest time I''ll meet you, so please don''t disturb my life anymore."

    Mitchell looked at her, searching her face. The Effie who used to look at him with adoration now met his gaze with a quiet, distant chill.

    Her eyes held no affection, only a polite indifference.

    "You''ve changed, Effie," he said, his voice tentative.

    Effie looked up, her tone t. "People change, Mitchell. If you have something to say, say it. I don''t have much time."

    She had no patience for small talk.

    Mitchell flinched at her coldness, his brow tightening.

    He took a steadying breath and asked bluntly, "I heard... you''re with Lyman now?"

    Effie arched an eyebrow, a hint of mockery in her voice. "Mitchell, that''s my business. I don''t see how it concerns you."

    Honestly, what was wrong with him?

    They''d broken up long ago-what right did he have to question her now?

 Chapter 105

    Mitchell''s expression darkened, his voice tinged with irritation. "Effie, do you even know what kind of man Lyman is? Someone like him could never be serious about you. Don''t let yourself get yed."

    Effie let out a coldugh, her eyes sharp with mockery. "Mitchell, have you forgotten? You''re the one who walked away from me. So what makes you think you have any right to meddle in my life now? I know exactly where I stand with Lyman. I don''t need your warnings."

    Mitchell was momentarily speechless, her words catching him off guard.

    He clenched his fists, regret seeping into his tone. "Effie, I know I hurt you back then, but-damn it, I just don''t want to see you get used by someone like Lyman."

    Effie''s gaze turned icy, her voiceced with warning. "Mitchell, watch what you say. I know Lyman far better than you do. And as for us-whatever we had is long over. Stop interfering in my life."

    Mitchell''s face twisted with anger as he shot to his feet. "Don''t be so naive, Effie! Lyman''s not serious about you-he''s just having his fun. You''re nothing more than a passing distraction to him!"

    Effie stood up too, her eyes cold as steel. "My life is none of your concern. Lyman is my husband, so maybe you should be careful with your words from now on."

    "Husband? Please." Mitchell''s voice dripped with scorn. "If you''re going to lie, at least pick something believable. You really expect me to believe Lyman would marry you? He''s just toying with you."

    Effie didn''t bother to argue. She simply pulled out her phone, found the photo of their marriage certificate, and held it out to him. "If you''re not blind, you can see for yourself. That''s our marriage license."

    As if Mitchell thought everyone yed games the way he did.

    They''d spent years together, and he''d never once considered marrying her. How many years did he think her youth wouldst? Or maybe, right from the start, he''d just been toying with her too, never caring enough tomit.

    And even now, Mitchell still thought Lyman was just ying around.

    Did he just think she wasn''t good enough to marry?

    Ridiculous.

    Mitchell''s face went pale as he stared at the proof, his brow furrowed so deeply it looked like he could crack a walnut between his eyebrows.

    "No way. That''s impossible!"

    "Is it?" Effie''s tone was almost taunting as she pointed to both their names. "Take a good look-those are our names, it''s legal."

    After Mitchell finally focused on the document, he shot her a suspicious re. "This is fake, right?"

    Of course it had to be a fake. Lyman would never marry Effie. Someone like him, so far out of reach, would never settle for a woman Mitchell had already cast aside.

    Effie rolled her eyes, exasperated. She''d never realized how stubborn Mitchell could be. "Are you really that clueless? Why would I bother faking something like this? Besides, forging documents is a crime."

    Mitchell said nothing, his face still grim.

    "It''s over between us, Mitchell," Effie said quietly but firmly, slipping her phone back into her bag. "Whatever happens between me and Lyman is none of your business. Believe it or not, it doesn''t change the facts."

    Mitchell''s face was so dark and stormy he looked ready to explode, his fists clenched so tightly his knuckles turned white. He still refused to believe Effie was really married.

    A bitter pang twisted in his chest.

    Suddenly, he let out a cold, mirthlessugh, his voiceced with ridicule. "Someone like him¡ªthere''s no way he actually cares about you. You''re just a convenient distraction, nothing more."

    Effie''s heart fluttered for a moment, but she quickly steadied herself.

    She raised her chin and met Mitchell''s stare, her lips curving into a faint, confident smile. "Mitchell, not everyone treats love like a game the way you do. I know exactly what kind of man Lyman is. At least he was willing to give me the respect of a realmitment. You, on the other hand... you never even thought about it."

 Chapter 106

    Mitchell was left speechless by Effie''s words. For a moment, he lookedpletely thrown, regret flickering in his eyes.

    He opened his mouth, as if to defend himself, but nothing came out.

    Without another nce, Effie turned and walked away, leaving Mitchell standing there alone, his expression clouded with uncertainty.

    She had no desire to get tangled up with Mitchell anymore.

    Whatever feelings she once had for him had long since vanished. Now, all she wanted was to focus on her new life.

    "Effie..." he murmured under his breath, his voice tinged with a regret he could barely hide.

    As Effie stepped out of the caf¨¦, she drew in a deep breath.

    Seeing Mitchell again, she realized how calm she felt. The old hurt from their breakup was gone.

    Just then, her phone began to ring.

    ncing at the screen, she saw Lyman''s name. A small, involuntary smile tugged at her lips as she answered.

    "Hey, darling." Her voice was warm and sweet.

    Ever since their rtionship had grown closer, Lyman had asked her to call him "darling." At first, Effie had felt shy about it, but she''d agreed.

    Soon, Lyman''s deep, velvety voice came through the line. "It''s lunchtime. Have you eaten?"

    Effieughed lightly, her tone rxed. "Yeah, I have. What about you?"

    "I''ve got a business lunch. Just stepped out for some air," Lyman replied with a chuckle.

    "Make sure you eat something, and go easy on the drinks," Effie reminded him gently.

    "I know, boss," he replied with an affectionate note in his voice.

    Her heart fluttered at his words.

    Clutching her phone, Effie couldn''t help but smile even more.

    If what Mitchell said about Lyman was true-if he was only toying with her-then

    so be it. The truth was, she realized she was falling for him, too.

    "When you''re done,e home early. I''ll be waiting," she said softly, a note of anticipation in her voice.

    "I will," Lyman promised, then added, "If you think of something you want for dinner, just let Mrs. Taylor know. I''ll be home as soon as I can."

    Effie thought for a moment, then grinned. "Got it."

    Lyman''s lowugh rumbled through the phone, yful and teasing. "So obedient today? I might have to reward you tonight."

    Effie''s cheeks flushed as she immediately understood what he meant. She feigned a scolding tone, "Stop it! Get back to work before someone wonders where you are."

    "Whatever you say, sweetheart," he replied, his voice warm and indulgent. "See you tonight."

    After hanging up, Effie felt lighter than ever.

    She looked up at the sky-the sun was shining, a gentle breeze brushed across her face, and even the air seemed sweet.

    Meanwhile, Lyman returned to the private dining room after his call.

    The atmosphere had been a bit stiff, but as soon as he walked in, everyone could sense the change in him¡ªhe seemed much more at ease, a gentle smile ying at the corners of his mouth.

    "Mr. Etheridge, you look like you''ve got some good news," one of the business partners teased, raising his ss. "Come on, let''s have a drink."

    Lyman smiled and shook his head lightly. "Go ahead, but my wife just called and told me to take it easy on the wine."

    Despite his casual tone, the pride and affection in his voice were impossible to miss.

 Chapter 107

    The mood in the private room instantly brightened.

    Everyone exchanged knowing smiles, a teasing glint in their eyes.

    Lyman had always been known for hisposure, rarely betraying emotion in public.

    "Looks like Mr. Etheridge is under strict orders from the wife tonight!" one

    business partner joked, grinning broadly. "Never thought we''d see the day, eh, Mr. Etheridge?"

    Lyman took it in stride, raising his teacup and taking a measured sip. His voice was calm, but there was a hint of amusement beneath it. "Honestly, it''s not so bad, having someone at home to keep me in check."

    Another partner lifted his ss,ughter in his voice. "So it was Mrs. Etheridge on the phone, was it? Well, let''s toast to Mr. Etheridge-wishing you a happy family and an even more sessful career!"

    Lyman tipped his ss in acknowledgment, his tone reserved but clearly pleased. "Thank you."

    After a few more rounds of drinks, the business at hand was nearly settled. Lyman took his leave soon after.

    He was just about to head back to the office when his phone rang-it was Isabel.

    Her voice was shaky, almost frantic. "Lyman, I... I think someone''s following me. I... I''m really scared..."

    Lyman''s expression grew serious.

    He considered sending Luther to check on her, but remembered he''d already assigned Luther to another task.

    So he had his driver take him instead.

    Isabel didn''t live far from the restaurant where he''d been entertaining clients. When Lyman arrived, he spotted Carole standing anxiously by the elevator.

    She jumped a little when she saw him. "Mr. Etheridge."

    He nodded coolly. "What happened?"

    In broad daylight, someone dared to follow her?

    Carole hesitated, looking troubled. "Isabel''s been rehearsing a lottely, and she keeps saying she feels like someone''s watching her. But whenever she looks around, there''s no one there. I was out negotiating a deal today, so I wasn''t with her. Who could''ve guessed something like this would happen..."

    She sounded guilty. "Mr. Etheridge, could you pleasefort Isabel for a bit? She''s never felt very safe, and today really shook her up."

    Lyman didn''t reply. He walked to the apartment door and knocked. "Isabel? It''s me."

    The door swung open almost immediately.

    Before he could react, Isabel threw her arms around him, clinging tightly.

    She was trembling, her fear palpable. The moment she heard Lyman''s voice,

    relief washed over her, and she copsed into his embrace.

    Her lips pressed together, eyes red and rimmed with unshed tears. She buried her face in his chest, desperate forfort.

    The crisp, clean scent unique to him filled her senses.

    If only this moment couldst forever.

    She wore a silk nightgown, her hair loose and damp from a recent shower, her face free of makeup and pale with distress. She looked heartbreakingly fragile.

    She hadn''t bothered with perfume-just the faint,forting scent of her soap lingered in the air.

    Lyman stiffened, a slight frown creasing his brow, clearly caught off guard by her sudden closeness.

    He looked down at Isabel, steadying her gently, his voice cool and distant. "Isabel, let go."

    But she only tightened her grip, her voice breaking as she tried not to cry. "Lyman, I''m really scared... That person just keeps following me, I... I don''t know what to do..."

    "What exactly happened?" Lyman pulled her away from him.

    Isabel hesitated, her eyes shining with tears. "Lyman, you... you never used to be like this."

    "Isabel, I''m married now. I need you to keep your distance from me," Lyman said quietly.

    It was as if lightning had struck her; she froze in disbelief.

    What?

    She must have heard wrong.

    Lyman... married?

    To whom? That woman, Effie?

    Tears spilled down Isabel''s cheeks as she stared up at Lyman, wounded and disbelieving.

    "Lyman, you must be joking, right? How could you get married so quickly? Was it because your mother kept pushing you, so you just found someone at random?"

 Chapter 108

    Isabel felt as though the ground had been pulled out from under her. The tension she''d been holding onto these past few days finally snapped, unraveling in the wake of his cold indifference.

    Lyman frowned slightly before speaking, his tone serious. "I''m not joking. Let''s get back to the matter at hand."

    Isabel managed a bitter smile. "Do you really think we should be having this conversation out here in the hallway?"

    A chill settled over her. She never imagined Lyman would go so far to defend that other woman. Now, he wouldn''t even share the same room with her.

    Lyman nced at her-she was standing there in her pajamas, clearly not an ideal situation, especially for someone constantly in the public eye.

    With a sigh, he stepped inside.

    Carole caught the hint and quietly slipped out, leaving the two of them alone.

    She couldn''t help but wonder-just a man and a woman alone together, could anything really stay innocent? Men, after all, are visual creatures. Isabel was beautiful, innocent-looking, and had a figure to match. There had always been a bit of chemistry between them-wasn''t this the perfect recipe for something to happen?

    Carole was sure Lyman was just sulking, punishing Isabel for leaving to further her career, and that this new woman was just a way to get under Isabel''s skin. If Isabel could just swallow her pride and make peace with him, that other woman wouldn''t stand a chance. With Mr. Etheridge''s protection, everything would be fine.

    The thought calmed her, but she couldn''t have been more wrong.

    Once inside, Lyman left the door open and called out to Carole, "You''re Isabel''s manager. You need to handle this properly. Come in here and let''s figure out the best approach."

    Isabel''s face froze, words dying on her lips. Was Lyman really that oblivious, or was he deliberately refusing to be alone with her? She''d had other ns for this conversation...

    "Lyman, this is a tricky situation. Maybe Carole="

    "If she can''t handle a crisis like this, perhaps you should consider getting a new manager," Lyman interrupted coolly.

    Isabel''s tone turned sulky. "In that case, you might as well leave. What are you even doing here? I can handle my own problems."

    It sounded almost like the petty bickering of a couple.

    Normally, if she acted like this, Lyman would have softened andforted her. But this time, his brows only drew tighter in irritation.

    Carole''s heart skipped a beat. This wasn''t good. Mr. Etheridge actually seemed angry.

    She jumped in quickly, ¡°Isabel, don''t say things you don''t mean. The moment Mr. Etheridge heard you were in trouble, he rushed straight over. Why would you say something so thoughtless? He''s right-I''ll do my best to handle this."

    She shot Isabel a warning nce, urging her to back down. Pushing Lyman away now would only drive him further from her.

    Isabel pressed her lips together, swallowing her pride and resentment. Every injustice she''d suffered-she swore she''d make that witch Effie pay for them.

    After a moment, Isabel finally spoke, her voice quiet. "Lately, I''ve felt like someone''s been watching me. Today... today he followed me all the way home. He was outside my building."

    Lyman''s eyes darkened as he turned to Carole. "Did you call the police?"

    Carole nodded quickly. "Yes, I did. They said they''d increase patrols in the area, but so far, they haven''t caught anyone."

    Lyman nodded, then pulled out his phone and dialed a number. "Luther, I need two bodyguards here. They''re to stay with Isabel around the clock. Keep her safe."

    Luther''s respectful voice came through at once. "Yes, Mr. Etheridge. I''ll see to it right away."

    Once he hung up, Lyman looked at Isabel, his tone calm but leaving no room for argument. "Don''t go out for the next few days. Wait until the bodyguards arrive. If anything else happens, contact Luther directly."

    In other words, Luther would be handling everything from now on.

    Isabel bit her lip, a flicker of defiance and disappointment passing through her eyes.

 Chapter 109

    Isabel had hoped Lyman would stay with her, maybe at least offer a few words offort. But his manner remained distant and cold as ever.

    "Lyman, could you... could you stay with me for a little while?" Her voice trembled with a pleading note, her eyes full of expectation.

    Lyman''s expression didn''t waver. His tone stayed as detached as before.

    "I have things to take care of. The security team will be here soon, so you don''t need to worry."

    With that, he turned to leave.

    Panic shed in Isabel''s eyes. She hurried forward and grabbed his sleeve.

    "Lyman, I... I''m really scared. Can you just-"¡±

    He stopped, ncing down at her hand. There was a trace of impatience in his voice. "Isabel, that''s enough."

    Her hand trembled, and she let go of his sleeve.

    Color drained from Isabel''s face. Disappointment and hurt flickered in her eyes.

    Lyman didn''t look back. He walked straight out of the room.

    Carole quickly came over tofort her.

    "Isabel, Mr. Etheridge already arranged for security. Try not to worry, alright?"

    But Isabel didn''t seem to hear her at all. She just stared nkly at the spot where

    Lyman had disappeared, silent tears slipping down her cheeks.

    "Why... why is he always like this..." she whispered bitterly.

    Carole sighed and lightly patted her shoulder.

    "Try not to think about it too much. Just get some rest, okay?"

    Isabel didn''t answer. She clenched her fists so tightly that her nails dug into her palms.

    If that''s how it is, she thought grimly, then don''t me me.

    Effie, do you really think you''ve won?

    Just wait this is far from over.

    Meanwhile, Lyman slid into the back seat of his car. The driver nced at him in the rearview mirror. "Home, sir?"

    Lyman checked the time-it was alreadyte-then nodded.

    He''d sent one of his managers to handle the evening''s business dinner.

    Leaning back against the seat, Lyman closed his eyes, but Effie''s face drifted unbidden into his thoughts.

    A faint smile curled at his lips. He''d never realized how much he wanted to get home.

    He used to be a workaholic, clocking well over eighteen hours a day. But now, as soon as the workday ended, he couldn''t wait to leave the office-because someone was waiting for him at home.

    "Step on it," he murmured.

    "Yes, Mr. Etheridge." The driver pressed on the elerator.

    When Lyman arrived home, Effie was curled up on the couch, waiting for him.

    She stood as soon as he walked in. "You''re back early! Didn''t you have a dinner tonight?" she asked, her eyes warm and gentle.

    He reached out and pulled her into his arms, a hint of affection softening his voice. "I sent someone else instead."

    Effie buried herself in his embrace, but suddenly a faint scent caught her attention ¡ªa kind of body wash, but not the one they used at home.

    For a moment, she froze, an uneasy feeling flickering in her chest.

    "What''s wrong?" Lyman asked, noticing her silence.

    "Nothing. I already ate, but do you want me to make you some pasta?" she offered.

    A smile shed in his eyes. "Sure. Thank you."

    Effie headed to the kitchen. Luckily, there were still some fresh vegetables and eggs in the fridge.

    Since it waste and they didn''t want anything heavy, she made a simple pasta with greens and eggs.

    Effie''s cooking was decent-her grandmother had always worried she wouldn''t know how to take care of herself, so she''d taught Effie how to cook from a young age. Effie turned out to be a quick learner.

    Before long, she emerged from the kitchen with a steaming bowl of noodles.

 Chapter 110

    The noodles were perfectly separated, looking deliciously springy, while the greens were crisp and fresh. A golden fried egg sat invitingly on top just looking at the bowl was enough to make anyone''s mouth water.

    Lyman sat at the dining table, taking in the meal before him, his eyes shining with quiet contentment.

    "You worked hard on this."

    "Eat up. I''m going to take a shower," Effie said offhandedly.

    At her words, something flickered in Lyman''s gaze, a depth that hadn''t been there before.

    Effie could practically feel the heat of his stare. She hurriedly turned and made her way to the bathroom, and soon the sound of running water filled the apartment.

    Lyman remained seated, his eyes unconsciously following her silhouette until the bathroom door closed behind her. He nced down at his bowl-the steam rising, the aromaforting-and an unexpected warmth bloomed quietly in his chest. He realized, somewhat to his surprise, just how much he enjoyed this simple kind of life.

    He picked up his fork, twirling up a mouthful of noodles. They were just as chewy as they looked, the fresh greens and savory egg blending together into something homey and satisfying-simple, but perfect.

    After he finished eating, Lyman cleared the table and washed the dishes.

    A whileter, the sound of the shower stopped. Not long after, Effie emerged, dressed in pale pink pajamas, her hair damp and tumbling messily over her shoulders.

    She spotted Lyman standing in the kitchen doorway, and paused, a little startled. "You''re done already?"

    "Yeah. It was great." Lyman nodded, his gaze lingering on her, a familiar heat in his eyes.

    Effie shifted, suddenly self-conscious. She lowered her head, rubbing at her wet hair with a towel. "d you liked it. I''m going to go dry my hair."

    "I''ll help you," Lyman said suddenly.

    Effie blinked, caught off guard, but before she could protest, Lyman was already beside her, gently taking the towel from her hands and softly patting her hair dry.

    His movements were tender, his fingertips asionally grazing her scalp, sending a shiver down her spine.

    She stood there, heart racing, acutely aware of how close they were close enough to feel each other''s breath.

    The air between them grew charged, the silence thick with unsaid things.

    "You... don''t have to go to all this trouble," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper, tinged with a nervous tremor.

    "It''s no trouble," Lyman replied, his voice low and gentle, almost maic. "You made me dinner. I can help you dry your hair. Seems fair, don''t you think?"

    His words seemed to linger in the air, and before Effie knew it, her hair was dry and she was swept up in his arms, carried straight into the bedroom.

    The room''s temperature soared in an instant...

    ...

    The next morning, Effie woke to find faint red marks on her skin. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. She quickly found a shirt and buttoned it up tightly.

    When she finally emerged, Lyman had already prepared breakfast.

    "You could''ve slept in, you know. If you''re tired, just call in and take the day off,¡± Lyman suggested with a smile.

    "That''s okay, I''ve got work today." Effie''s voice was soft, still shy. Taking a sick day for this sort of reason? The thought alone made her cheeks burn.

    After breakfast, Effie rushed off to the office.

    She had just finished the first draft of the jewelry design for Isabel, and nned to send it for her approval today.

    When she arrived, her colleagues were drifting in as well, gathering in small clusters, chattering excitedly about some new gossip.

    Effie had never cared much for office rumors, so she walked straight to her desk and set down her bag.

    Just then, Shirley strode over, eyes wide with intrigue, and leaned in conspiratorially. ¡°Effie, you won''t believe thetest-turns out our Mr. Etheridge really is dating Isabel, the ballerina."

 Chapter 111

    Effie''s hand paused mid-motion. She looked up at Shirley and asked, "Really? How do you know that?"

    The group had been chatting about office gossip just a moment ago. This must have been what they were whispering about.

    After all, Lyman was the heir to the Etheridge Group, and Isabel was a well-known dancer. Both of them were headline material.

    When Effie first heard the rumor, she felt a subtle pang of jealousy.

    Shirley leaned in, dropping her voice conspiratorially. "Someone spotted Mr. Etheridge at Isabel''s ce yesterday afternoon. They were inside for ages, just the two of them. The photos are everywhere! Everyone''s saying they must be together-just look online, it''s blowing up!"

    She fished out her phone, found a few blurry photos, and handed it to Effie.

    In the photos, Lyman stood at Isabel''s door while she answered, apparently in her pajamas. Their faces weren''t clear, but the posture between them looked a little too intimate.

    Effie nced at the pictures, her heart tightening, but her face remainedposed. She handed the phone back to Shirley, her tone even. "You know how these gossip stories are-half true, half made up. Best not to take them too seriously."

    Still, Effie tried to convince herself to trust Lyman.

    Shirley pouted, clearly disappointed by Effie''s reaction. "Effie, how can you not be interested at all? Mr. Etheridge is our boss¡ªhis scandals are practically front- page news for us!"

    Effie smiled faintly and started sorting through paperwork. "Workes first. Gossip is just noise-listen if you want, but don''t let it get to you."

    The truth was, Effie couldn''t help but feel uneasy. She recalled how, when Lyman came homest night and she''d leaned against his chest, she''d caught a hint of unfamiliar body wash.

    Had he juste from Isabel''s ce? Was that how he got her scent on him?

    As Shirley realized Effie wasn''t going to join in the spection, she wandered off, a bit deted.

    Effie watched her go, quietly exhaling-but her mind was a mess of emotions.

    It would be a lie to say none of this bothered her. She and Lyman were married now. More than that-they were finally real husband and wife.

    If Lyman truly wanted Isabel, Effie would rather step aside than be caught in some secret web of lies. There was no need for either of them to sneak around.

    Shaking her head, Effie forced herself to focus and opened herptop. Isabel''s initial jewelry designs had juste in; she needed to review them one more time and make sure nothing was overlooked.

    Meanwhile, in his office at the Etheridge Group, Lyman was buried in paperwork when Luther burst in, clearly flustered.

    Lyman frowned, ncing up. "What''s going on? Why the panic?"

    "Mr. Etheridge, those paparazzi photos of you at Miss Isabel''s ce are

    everywhere. The news is trending-everyone''s talking about it.¡±

    Was there really nothing better for the media to report? Why did this kind of rumor always make the headlines?

    It felt suspiciously like someone was fanning the mes behind the scenes- especially with so many rivals eager to see the Etheridge Group stumble. Manufacturing a scandal was an easy way to hurt their reputation.

    Lyman''s expression darkened. He set his pen down and fixed Luther with a cold stare. "Photos? What photos?"

    Luther quickly handed over his tablet. On the screen were the very same blurry pictures circting that morning-Lyman and Isabel standing together at her door, Isabel unmistakably in sleepwear, the kind of shot that left just enough room for malicious spection.

    Lyman''s face turned grim as he scrolled through them. "Those vultures are everywhere," he muttered icily. Then, his tone sharpened. "Contact PR- immediately. I want this handled. I don''t want another word of this nonsense spreading."

 Chapter 112

    Damn it!

    Which news outlet had the nerve to pull this?

    Luther nodded, but hesitated before asking, ¡°Mr. Etheridge, do you want us to issue a statement? This has already started to affect thepany''s reputation, and... well, your wife might see it too."

    At the mention of Effie, Lyman''s expression flickered and his tone softened. "Handle the statement, but make sure you rify that there''s nothing between Isabel and me¡ªit''s strictly business. As for my wife..."

    He paused, voice dropping lower. "I''ll exin things to her myself."

    Lyman''s gaze turned brooding. He couldn''t help but wonder-what would Effie think when she saw the news?

    Would she be jealous?

    Effie, however, didn''t have time for such thoughts-she was far too busy for that.

    Around three in the afternoon, Isabel arrived at the office.

    Truth be told, if Isabel hadn''t insisted, Effie could''ve just sent the sketches over for her approval. But Isabel was adamant abouting in person, wanting to review everything face-to-face.

    So Effie waited in the conference room well ahead of time.

    It was nearly three-thirty before Isabel finally made her entrance, unhurried and unapologetic for beingte.

    As soon as she walked in, Effie stood and greeted her, her voice calm and poised. "Miss Isabel, please have a seat."

    Isabel nced at her coolly, then said, ¡°Designer Bagnold, you really are something. Finished already? No wonder you''re the creative director."

    Effie wasn''t na?ve-she caught the sarcasm right away.

    "You tter me, Miss Isabel. I''m just doing my job," she replied smoothly, handing over thepleted sketches. "Please take a look and let me know if you''re satisfied."

    Isabel''s eyes were cold as she took the folder, pretending to be interested. In reality, she had zero faith in Effie''s abilities. As far as she was concerned, Effie was just another mediocre designer, hardly qualified for a project of this caliber. Honestly, Isabel had only requested Effie for the design so she''d have an excuse to criticize herter.

    That thought alone sent a thrill through her.

    She took the sketches with an air of indifference, but the moment she saw the drawings, her eyes widened in shock.

    My God.

    Did Effie really design these?

    The lines were fluid, the details exquisite; the jewelrybined timeless elegance with a touch of modern ir. Every ent was perfectly bnced, surpassing all of Isabel''s expectations.

    She''d been prepared for something nd, even had a list of criticisms ready-but now, staring at the designs in front of her, Isabel was left speechless.

    Inside, she was reeling.

    But she quicklyposed herself.

    "This... You actually designed these yourself?" Isabel looked up, her tone tinged with disbelief.

    Effie smiled faintly, her voice steady and assured. "Yes, Miss Isabel. This is the preliminary draft I created based on your style and preferences. If there''s anything you''d like changed, let me know and I''ll adjust it ordingly."

    Isabel pressed her lips together, torn between resentment and grudging admiration¡ªthere was no denying Effie''s work was wless. The design was simple yet sophisticated, unique and striking.

    She had loved it at first nce.

    But to admit that out loud? Isabel couldn''t bring herself to do it.

    Suddenly, one of Isabel''s entourage eximed, "Wait... Isn''t this almost identical to an SW design?"

 Chapter 113

    Isabel frowned. "What''s SW?"

    She couldn''t keep up for a moment-it wasn''t her world, after all. Isabel had never really been part of the fashion crowd.

    But herpanion was a stylist, and when it came to designer jewelry, she knew every name and every collection by heart.

    The stylist leaned forward, eyes shining with excitement. "SW stands for Sophia Williams¡ªshe''s one of the world''s top jewelry designers. Her work is famous for its unique style and masterful craftsmanship. The rich and famous go crazy for her pieces. She rarely appears in public these days. People say she has two prot¨¦g¨¦s she''s trained personally, but they''re both shrouded in mystery-no one knows who they are."

    "Are you sure this is a Sophia Williams design?" Isabel turned to her friend, unable to hide a note of urgency in her voice.

    Her friend nodded, pointing to a particr detail on the sketch. "I''m almost certain.

    Look here¡ªthis setting technique, and the signature motif. These are ssic SW elements. I saw her work up close at a jewelry exhibition in Paris once. I''d recognize it anywhere."

    She sounded utterly convinced.

    Effie hesitated, surprised they could recognize something so minute. She''d assumed no one would notice details that small.

    Isabel''s pulse quickened. If this really was an SW design, how on earth had Effie gotten her hands on it?

    Did Effie have some connection to Sophia Williams?

    Impossible. SW was a world-renowned designer. Someone as unknown as Effie couldn''t possibly have met her-let alone gotten a piece from her.

    Unless... Effie had copied SW''s work?

    Either way, Isabel had made up her mind: there was no way this design came from Effie.

    How bold of her, Isabel thought with contempt. To steal a master''s work and pass it off as her own? Absolutely shameless.

    Well, this was the perfect chance to expose Effie for who she truly was.

    And Lyman would finally see the real Effie-someone who had no business standing by his side.

    With that, Isabel''s gaze turned sharp. She fixed Effie with a cold look and asked, her voice edged with usation, "Miss Bagnold, did you really design this yourself? Or did you... ''borrow'' it from someone else?"

    "If you weren''t up to the task, you could''ve just told me," Isabel went on, her toneced with mockery. "Some jobs should be left to the real professionals. You didn''t have to stoop to copying-now you''ve only embarrassed yourself."

    The satisfaction was almost intoxicating. Isabel felt vindicated as if she''d finally gotten her chance to put Effie in her ce. And for once, she didn''t even have to lift a finger.

    Effie was doing all the work herself.

    Effie actually let out a shortugh-she couldn''t believe Isabel had jumped to usations of giarism without any investigation at all.

    She kept her expression calm, her eyes clear and steady. "Miss Isabel, I assure you, this design is entirely my own. If you have any doubts, I''d be happy to walk you through the inspiration behind every detail and the process for creating each element."

    Isabel''s frown deepened. She still couldn''t believe an unknown designer could create something so stunning-especially something so reminiscent of SW''s style.

    "Miss Bagnold, I have to remind you, giarism is a serious offense in our industry. If you really did copy Sophia Williams''s work, you''d do well to admit it now. The consequences could be severe," Isabel warned, her tone cold.

    Effie''s voice remainedposed. "Once again, this sketch is my original work. All I need to know is whether you''re satisfied with the design. If not, you''re wee to find someone else."

    "I''m not satisfied!" Isabel snapped. "There''s no way I''m epting a copied design. Wearing someone else''s stolen work would be humiliating."

 Chapter 114

    Effie''s expression grew instantly serious. ¡°Miss Isabel, you may not like my work, but please don''t insult my integrity. I did not giarize."

    With that, she reached into her bag and pulled out a folder, handing it to Isabel. "Here are my original sketches and notes from the design process. Feel free to look them over. And if that''s not enough, I can contact the SW Studio-they can vouch for me."

    Isabel scoffed. "Miss Bagnold, what''s that supposed to mean? Are you trying to say you have some connection to SW?"

    Unbelievable. The nerve.

    But Effie nodded calmly, her voice steady. "Yes. SW mentored me. When I was studying in Paris, I was fortunate enough to learn jewelry design under her guidance. So, of course I''m able to use the design elements you mentioned."

    For a moment, Isabel was stunned. She hadn''t expected Effie to have such an impressive background.

    No wonder her designs were exceptional-she''d been taught by one of the top masters in the field. Effie was SW''s prot¨¦g¨¦?

    A flurry of emotions crossed Isabel''s face. How could this be possible? Their worlds should never have ovepped.

    But sometimes fate works in mysterious ways.

    Back when Effie was a top student, she earned a chance to study abroad. One day, she helped an elderly woman in need-never guessing that the woman was Sophia Williams, the internationally renowned jewelry designer.

    They hit it off right away. When SW learned Effie was studying jewelry design, she offered to mentor her. She quickly saw that Effie had both talent and intuition.

    At the time, Effie didn''t know SW''s real identity-SW was famously reserved and rarely appeared in magazines. Effie simply treated her with kindness, never imagining who she really was.

    After observing Effie for a while, SW realized not only her creative potential but also her genuine character. Eventually, she took Effie on as her apprentice.

    When Effie''s studies in Paris ended, she returned home-her grandmother was waiting for her back in the States. SW, meanwhile, set off to travel the world, always searching for new inspiration.

    The two stayed in touch, exchanging ideas and discussing design trends whenever they could.

    Effie had once hoped to invite SW to her wedding, but things changed when the groom turned out not to be who she thought.

    Still, Effie kept all this to herself. She never told anyone she was SW''s prot¨¦g¨¦. She didn''t want unnecessary attention orplications. More than anything, she wanted her work to speak for itself-unclouded by her mentor''s legendary reputation.

    She wanted clients to love her designs, not just the name behind them.

    So she kept her background quiet. She never expected to encounter someone today who was such a superfan of her mentor that they could spot even the smallest details.

    Isabel''s mind was spinning. She stared at Effie, searching her calm, steady gaze for any sign of a lie. But Effie looked back with quiet confidence, unwavering.

    That certainty made it impossible for Isabel not to believe her.

    "You-you''re really SW''s apprentice?" Isabel''s voice was shaky, as if she couldn''t quite believe it.

    Effie nodded, her tone quiet but firm. "Yes, Miss Isabel. If you''d like, I can call my mentor right now. She''s traveling in Switzend at the moment, but I''m sure she''d be willing to confirm it for you herself."

    Isabel was at a loss for words, a storm of emotions churning inside her.

    She''d thought she could easily find fault with Effie''s work, use it as a chance to put her in her ce. Instead, the tables had turned¡ªand she was left humiliated.

    SW''s name carried enormous weight in the world of jewelry design. Her student would never be just ordinary.

    Effie was more than qualified to design for her.

    Isabel felt a surge of frustration, a bitter taste she couldn''t swallow.

    Damn it!

 Chapter 115

    She really couldn''t swallow her pride this time.

    Isabel watched Effie''s calm expression, and the irritation in her chest only grew heavier.

    Still, considering Effie was SW''s prot¨¦g¨¦, Isabel decided to force herself to y nice-just this once.

    She spoke coolly. "Since that''s the case, go ahead and produce the final design. After all, you are SW''s apprentice."

    The message was clear: she was only relenting because of Effie''s mentor.

    Of course, Effie saw right through her.

    She replied, her tone just asposed, "Miss Isabel, there''s really no need to force yourself. If you want the final piece, I''ll deliver. But if you still have reservations, I''ll say it again¡ªplease feel free to find another designer."

    Isabel''s face darkened instantly.

    What was this woman ying at?

    Was she turning down hermission?

    Did Effie really think just because she was SW''s apprentice, she could act so high and mighty?

    "Designer Bagnold, is this really how you treat your clients?" Isabel snapped, struggling to keep herposure.

    "I''m simply being professional, Miss Isabel," Effie answered evenly.

    "Forget it. Since you''re making it so clear, I won''t bother you any further. Honestly, I''m not even that fond of your style," Isabel huffed, her irritation barely contained.

    Truthfully, Isabel was worried. If she wore Effie''s design and it became a sensation, people would inevitably dig into the designer''s background. She''d end up giving Effie free publicity-and Isabel was a celebrity in her own right now. The uing awards ceremony was a major event. After some thought, she decided she definitely didn''t want to act as Effie''s walking advertisement. Initially, she''d approached Effie just to get under her skin. Now that Effie didn''t seem to care, Isabel had no reason to stay. She''d just hire someone else.

    "Take care, Miss Isabel," Effie said politely, secretly wishing they''d never have to work together again.

    "Oh, I''ll be going. By the way, Miss Bagnold, there''s something I want to clear up. Did you see today''s headlines? Yesterday I was followed by fans¡ªit was terrifying! Lyman rushed over as soon as he found out. Don''t get the wrong idea," Isabel said, her voice tinged with smugness.

    This was one of the main reasons she''de today-she couldn''t wait to boast in front of Effie, desperate to see her hurt and jealous.

    But Effie only nced at her, expression unchanged. "I''m not misunderstanding anything. My husband already told me what happened. He''s always been the helpful type. I''m d you''re alright, Miss Isabel. Honestly, it can''t be easy for a woman in your position."

    Her mild response nearly choked Isabel with frustration.

    In the end, Isabel stormed out, fuming.

    Effie let out a quiet sigh of relief, then went to exin things to her director. The whole situation had been a headache, but at least it was better than dealing with Isabel any longer. Effie had realized early on that Isabel hadn''te in good faith ¡ªshe was just looking for a reason to cause trouble. How could she possibly work with someone like that?

    Meanwhile, Lyman wasted no time getting things handled. He''d already asked Luther to deal with the trending headlines.

    Soon enough, Luther had the news wiped from the charts, and the PR department released a statement.

    Still, plenty of people kept gossiping, convinced Lyman was trying a bit too hard to cover things up. Maybe he was worried about The Etheridge Group''s reputation? It was a standard PR move, so most people didn''t take it too seriously.

    After wrapping things up, Luther headed to the CEO''s office to report in. He found Lyman frowning at his desk, lost in thought.

    Luther approached carefully. "Mr. Etheridge, everything''s been taken care of. Is there anything else I can help with?"

    Lyman nced up at him and asked, "Luther, is it true you''re seeing someone?¡±

 Chapter 116

    Luther paused, a bit confused. Why was Mr. Etheridge asking him that?

    Was it possible Mr. Etheridge was having a change of heart, suddenly feeling guilty about all thete nights and lost weekends he''d demanded? Maybe he wanted to make it up to him-was this his way of offering some time off?

    Luther quickly nodded. "Yes, I have a girlfriend. We''ve been together almost two years. Things are good."

    Lyman gave a thoughtful nod. "So, tell me if you mess up and need to apologize, how should you do it?"

    Now, this was a topic Luther knew well.

    "You have to be sincere. Honestly, most women, when they''re upset, just want more attention. So, it helps to give a little gift, or maybe n a special date."

    He nced at Lyman, then spoke a bit more carefully.

    He couldn''t help but wonder-was Mr. Etheridge having rtionship trouble? Was it because of that whole online scandal? As his right-hand man, Luther felt it was practically his duty to help solve all of Mr. Etheridge''s problems.

    Lyman''s expression was distant, his thoughts clearly elsewhere.

    After a moment, Lyman spoke up. "Book me a private table somewhere. I want to take my wife out after work."

    It urred to Lyman that since getting married, he hadn''t really done anything romantic. In this department, he was a total rookie. He definitely needed to step

    up his game.

    "Of course, Mr. Etheridge. I''ll take care of it," Luther replied respectfully.

    ¡°Oh, and pick up a few books for me. Something about rtionships or keeping a marriage strong," Lyman added.

    He realized he really needed to brush up on this whole romance thing.

    Luther hesitated for a second, but quickly agreed. "Absolutely."

    With that, Luther hurried off to make arrangements.

    Later, as the workday ended, Lyman called Effie. He asked her to meet him across the street from her office after she finished for the day.

    Effie didn''t find this unusual-Lyman would sometimes pick her up, as long as he wasn''t tied up with work events.

    After stepping out of the office and making sure no one she knew was around, Effie quickly slid into the passenger seat.

    Lyman grinned. "Am I some kind of secret you have to hide?"

    She shot him an amused look. ¡°No, you''re just a little too noticeable. If people saw us, the gossip would never end."

    Better to avoid unnecessary trouble.

    They drove off, and soon Effie realized they weren''t headed home.

    "We''re not going home?" she asked, a little puzzled.

    Lyman cleared his throat, looking slightly sheepish. "Tonight, we''re going on a date."

    A date?

    Effie felt her cheeks flush. She didn''t press him for details, just nodded quietly.

    Soon, they pulled up in front of a five-star hotel.

    Effie got out, graceful andposed as always.

    Lyman joined her and took her hand as they walked inside.

    Effie''s heart was fluttering with nerves and excitement. She got along well with Lyman on most days, but this was their first real, official date.

    She couldn''t help sneaking a nce at him. In the glow of the hotel lights, his profile looked especially handsome, and her heart skipped a beat.

    They rode the elevator to the top-floor restaurant.

    The atmosphere was refined and elegant, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a breathtaking view of the city lights below.

    Effie gazed at the view, her voice soft with wonder. "It''s beautiful."

    Lyman smiled, pulling out her chair for her. "I''m d you like it."

    He made a mental note to give Luther a bonus-he''d really outdone himself this time.

 Chapter 117

    Effie took a seat and was caught off guard by the scene before her: the table was set with two sets of gleaming silverware and pristine tes, nked by a pair of crystal wine sses and a bottle of Bordeaux from 1982.

    She blinked in surprise. Lyman had never struck her as the thoughtful, detail-

    oriented type.

    She''d assumed they were just going out for a casual dinner-nothing more.

    But clearly, Lyman had nned something special.

    After a minute, Lyman, as if performing a magic trick, produced a huge bouquet of red roses from a side table.

    He walked over and said, "These are for you. Do you like them?"

    Effie''s eyes widened in astonishment. She epted the flowers, her heart

    pounding with excitement she barely contained.

    Was this the first time he''d ever given her flowers?

    She buried her face in the bouquet, inhaling the sweet, intoxicating scent.

    "I love them," she said softly, a shy smile tugging at her lips.

    She nced up and met his gaze. His dark eyes were like polished obsidian, mysterious and maic-one look and she felt as if she could be pulled right in.

    A gentle smile flickered at the corner of Lyman''s mouth. "I''m d you do. Let''s enjoy dinner tonight."

    Soon, the waiter arrived with two perfectly cooked sirloin steaks.

    Effie looked down at the beautifully ted steak-charred on the outside, tender and pink within, its aroma utterly mouthwatering.

    She picked up her fork and knife, slicing off a small piece with practiced grace, then brought it to her lips.

    The meat was melt-in-your-mouth tender, juicy, and kissed with a hint of smoky vor that lingered deliciously on her tongue.

    Lyman noticed the faint smile ying on her lips. "How is it?" he asked quietly. Effie nodded, her eyes shining with satisfaction. "It''s wonderful."

    Lyman smiled back, lifted his wine ss, and swirled the crimson liquid. He raised his ss in a toast. "To us, and to this moment."

    Effie lifted her own ss, clinking it gently against his. The crystal rang out with a clear, pleasant note.

    She took a sip; the wine was rich and velvety,ced with hints of fruit and oak that left her a little lightheaded.

    But she couldn''t quite figure out why Lyman was acting so out of character tonight.

    He''d never been the romantic type, had he?

    Noticing her drifting off in thought, Lyman asked, "What''s on your mind?"

    Effie hesitated, then blurted out, "Why did you decide to take me out tonight?"

    "We''re married," Lyman replied. "Every couple deserves a little romance now and then."

    Effie''s mind darted to the trending topic she''d seen online earlier. She couldn''t help but ask, almost timidly, "Is it because of what''s been circting today?"

    Was this dinner just a way to make up for a guilty conscience?

    Lyman paused, realization dawning in his eyes. So she really did know.

    But his tone was open and matter-of-fact as he exined, "That''s just the tabloids

    stirring up nonsense. Isabel and I are just friends. She had a bit of trouble yesterday and called me for help. I just happened to be nearby, so I went."

    He''d given her an answer.

    Still, something in Effie''s heart tightened. Suddenly, the steak on her te lost all its vor.

    A dull ache crept in.

    Maybe Lyman had no ulterior motives, but Isabel certainly did. The way she''d confronted Effie at the office made that all too clear.

    But then again, if Lyman hadn''t given Isabel the opportunity, would she really have dared act so brazenly?

    Effie wanted to say more, but the reality of their marriage held her back. In the end, what right did she have?

    She forced a smile. "I understand."

    To hide her disappointment, she lowered her head and focused on her steak.

    Lyman, seeing that she''d dropped the subject, rxed a little.

    He''d always been straightforward, never one to dwell on things too much.

    But the truth was, he still couldn''t fathom theplexities of a woman''s heart- and so, an invisible wall remained between them.

 Chapter 118

    Still, Effie tried to reassure herself. At the very least, Lyman had put in real effort.

    He could have done nothing at all.

    But instead, he''d worried she might misunderstand, and went out of his way to n such a romantic date.

    She really ought to be grateful.

    With that thought, Effie''s mood lightened. She picked up her fork and began to eat with genuine appetite.

    Lyman noticed and a faint smile tugged at his lips.

    After they finished their meal, the two of them left together.

    They had just stepped into the lobby when, by chance, Shepard emerged from the opposite elevator.

    So, he saw Lyman and Effie walk right past him.

    The moment Shepard caught sight of Lyman, he nearly gasped. Was he seeing things?

    That was Lyman, no doubt about it!

    And now, seeing Lyman and Effie together, he waspletely stunned.

    That little brat Effie actually knew someone so important?

    At the matriarch''s birthday party, Shepard had already suspected something when Lyman came to pick Effie up. Now, his suspicions were confirmed their rtionship was anything but ordinary.

    Shepard''s heart raced with excitement. He almost called out to Effie, but the thought of disturbing Lyman made him hesitate, so he held back.

    There was plenty of time ahead.

    He would have to ask Effie exactly what her rtionship with Lyman was.

    The next morning, as soon as Effie arrived at the office, she was called into a meeting.

    Once everyone had gathered, the director spoke up, "I''ve got some good news, everyone. This weekend, there''s a Fashion G, and the organizers have sent us a handful of invitations. That means all the designers in our department will get to attend."

    "This is a rare opportunity. Tons of celebrities and socialites will be there, and all eyes will be on their outfits and the jewelry they wear. Make sure you take this chance to learn as much as you can."

    The moment the announcement was made, the room erupted into excited chatter. After all, the Fashion G was closely rted to their line of work.

    The way those celebrities and socialites dressed could inspire their own designs.

    Not to mention, it was the perfect asion to rub shoulders with some big names -maybe even pave the way for future coborations.

    That was one of the main reasons everyone wanted to go.

    Of course, it was also a chance to broaden their horizons. Opportunities like this didn''te around often.

    The designers were buzzing with anticipation.

    Effie, however, remained calm. She''d attended such gs before; it wasn''t anything new to her.

    Still, since the director had spoken, she would naturally take part.

    Thinking of the uing event, Effie realized she needed to start preparing.

    Around her, the other designers were already discussing what gowns to wear and which essories would look best.

    No one wanted to make a fool of themselves at such a high-profile affair.

    After the meeting, Effie called Nn and asked him to prepare a dress for her.

    She trusted Nn-he always handled her requests wlessly.

    He agreed instantly.

    Nn had already made up his mind: he wanted Effie to steal the spotlight at the Fashion G, to leave everyone in awe.

    Once the call ended, Effie dove back into work.

    Around noon, her phone rang. It was Shepard.

    "Effie, busy right now?" Shepard''s voice oozed faux warmth.

    Effie''s brows drew together at the sound of his voice, her guard immediately up.

    "Is there something you need?" she replied coolly, keeping her tone neutral. Shepard chuckled, his concern sounding anything but genuine. "Oh, nothing urgent. It''s just been a while since we caught up. I wanted to see how you''ve been. Do you have time for dinner tonight?"

    Effie couldn''t help but smirk inwardly. Typical-he never calls without a reason.

 Chapter 119

    Effie replied coolly, "I probably won''t be free tonight. There''s a project at work that needs to be rushed."

    Shepard didn''t seem the least bit surprised by her refusal. Still smiling, he pressed on, "What about tomorrow? Or the weekend? You have to make time for your old man at some point, right?"

    Effie cut through the pretense. "If you have something to say, just say it. And if you''re lonely, you can always have your darling daughter keep youpany. I''m sure Suzan would be delighted."

    Shepard''s face darkened instantly.

    Ungrateful girl!

    But now that Effie might know Lyman, he forced himself to swallow his anger.

    "You''re my daughter too. Blood ties aren''t so easily broken," he said through gritted teeth.

    Effie gave a cold, mirthlessugh. "You didn''t call just to talk about blood ties, did you? If that''s all, I''ll hang up. I''m busy."

    "Come home tonight. I have questions for you. You muste back." Shepard''s tone turned urgent.

    Before Effie could respond, he hung up.

    Effie''s expression stayed frosty. She had no intention of humoring him, but she knew Shepard all too well. If she didn''te home, he''d probably show up at her office.

    Fine. She''d go back and see what he was plotting this time.

    After work, with Lyman out for a dinner engagement, Effie made her way back to the Bagnold family estate.

    She paused at the entrance of Bagnold Mansion, took a steadying breath, and pushed open the familiar yet strangely distant front door.

    In the living room, Shepard lounged on the sofa with a cup of tea in hand, looking rxed. When he heard the front door, he looked up, set his cup down, and called out with an uncharacteristic warmth, "You''re home!"

    Effie frowned.

    Had he been possessed by a ghost?

    Since when did he wee her back like this?

    Her guard snapped up. If she wasn''t careful, she''d probably get sold off and not even know it. "Yeah."

    Just then, Vera swept in from the kitchen, her expression exaggerated and her voice shrill. "Effie! Come in, sit down. I just made some nourishing soup for you- I''ll bring it out in a minute."

    Effie nearly shivered at the sound.

    What on earth was going on with these two?

    Truth was, ever since that disastrous birthday dinner, Vera despised Effie to her core. Every time she saw Effie, she wanted to tear her apart. But Shepard had warned her to keep it together¡ªand to treat Effie well-because of Effie''s closeness to Lyman.

    Vera scoffed at the idea. Anyone could see Lyman was just having a fling; there was no way he''d be serious about Effie.

    But for Shepard, none of that mattered. As long as Effie could get close to Lyman, whisper a few words in his ear, business would pour in and he''d never have to worry about contracts again.

    The truth was, times were tough for the Bagnold Group. Competition was fierce, and the construction industry was oversaturated.

    Shepard was desperate to pivot the business, but that required the right opportunity¡ªand more importantly, the right connections.

    Lyman was the perfect candidate. With just a word from him, all of Shepard''s troubles might vanish.

    Rumor had it that the Etheridge Group was developing a hot springs resort. If Shepard''spany couldnd even a small slice of the project, it would solve their cash flow problems and boost their reputation.

    So tonight, Shepard wanted Effie home for one reason: to see if she could y matchmaker.

    Vera had no choice but to y along. If the Bagnold family went under, her days as ady of leisure would be over.

 Chapter 120

    Now all she could do was swallow her pride and keep her head down.

    Effie''s lips curled into a faint, ambiguous smile¡ªshe was curious herself to see what sort of game these two were ying.

    "Vera, that won''t be necessary."

    "Effie,e sit down. I have something to ask you," Shepard said, unable to hide his impatience.

    "What is it?" Effie replied, her tone cool and unhurried.

    "What''s going on between you and Lyman? I meant to ask you at thest birthday party," Shepard pressed.

    Effie paused for a moment; after that party, she''d thought Shepard would confront her, but she hadn''t expected him to hold back this long.

    Of course, Effie knew exactly what Shepard was scheming.

    There was no way she''d let him get what he wanted.

    So she answered evenly, "There''s nothing between us. I asked him for a favor once he grudgingly agreed, but he made it clear it was a one-time thing. He even warned me not to ask again. I have some self-respect; I''m not about to pester someone like him."

    Shepard''s brows knit together, unconvinced. "Are you telling the truth?"

    He remembered seeing them together,ughing and talking; it didn''t look like there was nothing between them.

    Effie offered a faint, self-mocking smile. "I know my ce. Why would I set my sights on someone so far above me?"

    Shepard''s scowl deepened, frustration simmering inside him.

    He''d thought Effie might be his way in-clearly, that hope was dead.

    His tone grew sharp. "I thought you had some backbone. Turns out you''re just as useless as your mother."

    Effie''s expression turned to ice at the mention of her mother. "Mr. Bagnold, if you were half as capable as you pretend, you wouldn''t need to drag me back here. Let me tell you, even if I did know Lyman, I''d never introduce him to you. You''re not worthy."

    With that, she stood and walked out.

    Every second longer in that room made her feel like she was suffocating.

    She''d always known what kind of man Shepard was, but having it confirmed again only made her feel more disgusted.

    As Effie left, Vera dropped her pretense, sneering at Effie''s retreating back. "I told you-men like Lyman have their pick of women. Why would he ever look at Effie?"

    Shepard let out a heavy sigh, feeling utterly at a loss.

    Just then, Suzan came in. She''d seen Effie a moment ago and couldn''t help but ask, "What was Effie doing here?"

    She better not be scheming for the family''s assets again.

    Vera let out an annoyed huff. "We thought she might actually know Lyman, maybe help us make a connection, but turns out she''s got nothing."

    "Dad, Mom, what are you thinking? Effie, friends with someone like that? She probably threw herself at him and he didn''t give her the time of day. Rx-once I marry Mitchell, everything will work out." Suzan''s voice brimmed with confidence.

    Vera nodded approvingly. "That''s right, sweetheart. You make sure to hold on to Mitchell. The Lloyd family is one of the top families around. Once you''re Mrs. Lloyd, we''ll finally have some real standing."

    "Don''t worry, Mom. I know what I''m doing," Suzan replied.

    Lately, Mitchell had seemed a bit distant-not quite as attentive as before-but that didn''t worry her.

    Suzan still had her secret weapon.

    Men always want something new, she mused. You just have to keep them guessing, keep things fresh, and they''ll never get enough of you.

    Suzan promised herself: she would be Mrs. Lloyd, no matter what.

 Chapter 121

    The Fashion G arrived right on schedule.

    Effie was on the guest list as well, so she spent the afternoon getting ready-no one wanted to show up looking anything less than wless at such a high-profile event.

    Tonight, appearances mattered more than ever. For Effie, it wasn''t just about fashion; she had a new identity to protect now.

    Earlier that day, Nn had her gown delivered. One look was all it took for Effie to feel reassured-Nn always knew exactly what would suit her best.

    She headed to the salon for hair and makeup, then slipped into her dress before making her way straight to the venue.

    The g was being held at a magnificent six-star hotel. By the time Effie arrived, night had fallen, and the dazzling lights made the building glow like a pce. A crimson carpet unfurled from the entrance all the way through the grand lobby. Effie took a deep breath, smoothed her skirt, and stepped gracefully out of the car.

    Her gown, handpicked by Nn, was a champagne-hued one-shoulder number- simple yet exquisitely tailored, with a scattering of tiny crystals at the waist that sparkled like stars against the night. Her makeup was polished but understated, and her softly curled hair cascaded over her shoulders, lending her an air of effortless elegance.

    Inside, guests mingled in small clusters, voices low andughter gentle, the airced with the scent of expensive perfume and champagne. It was everything a Fashion G promised to be-morous and electric.

    Effie spotted a few familiar colleagues and was about to join them when a shrill voice cut through the crowd.

    "Effie, what are you doing here? Do you even know where you are?"

    She turned. Of course it was Sigrid, as arrogant and self-important as ever. Not that it was surprising; the Fashion G was Sigrid''s natural habitat, after all. She was a socialite through and through.

    Effie gave her a cool, measured nce before responding, "This is the Fashion G, isn''t it? Though I wonder whose mutt slipped its leash and started barking at the door."

    Sigrid bristled, immediately catching the implication. "Who are you calling a mutt?¡± Effie''s gaze was serene. "Whoever answered, obviously."

    She wasn''t the same Effie who let Adeline and Sigrid push her around. Back then, she''d tolerated their behavior only because they were Mitchell''s family, but their pettiness had only grown worse. They''d always acted superior, as if she was

    someone to be toyed with. Howughable.

    Effie almost couldn''t be bothered to engage.

    But Sigrid''s attention suddenly shifted. Her eyes narrowed as she took a closer look at Effie''s dress. If she wasn''t mistaken, the gown was a bespoke piece from UKISS.

    That couldn''t be possible, could it? UKISS was the brand beloved by every high- society heiress-ultra-exclusive, each design unique, with prices and waitlists to match. Sigrid herself was a die-hard fan, but she''d tried and failed more than once to secure a custom order.

    She wasn''t alone. Every woman in their circle dreamed of owning a UKISS original, willing to go to great lengths for a chance to boast about it.

    And yet here was Effie, wearing a one-of-a-kind UKISS dress.

    Sigrid couldn''t help herself. Her voice was tight with suspicion and envy. "That dress... Is it UKISS?"

 Chapter 122

    Effie nced down at her dress, the hint of a smile ying on her lips. Her tone was mild, almost amused. "That''s right. Why do you ask?"

    Sigrid''s voice shot up a notch, her disbeliefid bare. "How could you possibly get a custom UKISS piece?"

    Effie arched an eyebrow, herposure unshaken. "Is it so impossible? Yet, here I am, wearing it."

    Sigrid couldn''t believe it.

    If this dress had been on the back of any other socialite in the room, she wouldn''t have batted an eye. But this gown was worth seven figures. Effie, of all people¡ª how on earth did she pull this off? Not long ago, Effie had beenpletely ordinary; now she seemed to have transformed overnight, the ugly duckling turned swan.

    Theparison was almost painful-Effie made Sigrid feel utterly forgettable.

    Effie, meanwhile, knew exactly what Sigrid was thinking, but she couldn''t be bothered to exin. If Sigrid ever found out just how many UKISS dresses she had stashed at home, she''d probably have a meltdown. Lyman hadmissioned a whole wardrobe for her, after all.

    Effie was about to go find her colleagues; even another word with Sigrid felt like a waste of effort. Sigrid, seeing just how indifferent Effie was to her now, felt a fresh wave of difort. Effie used to be so amodating, so eager to please. What had happened to her?

    Wasn''t Effie supposed to be struggling after leaving her brother''s house? Instead, she looked every bit the princess-elegant, poised, almost ethereal. It was infuriating.

    Sigrid''s envy was eating her alive as she watched Effie carry herself with effortless grace.

    Just then, amotion rippled through the entrance. Clearly, someone important had arrived. Instinctively, everyone turned toward the door-and that''s when Isabel made her entrance, the picture of poise and confidence.

    This was exactly the effect Isabel wanted. She''d waited until the room was full before making her appearance, instantly seizing the spotlight.

    She swept her gaze across the crowd. No wonder this was the Fashion G- everyone was dressed to impress, every outfit a deration of status and taste.

    Compliments began to ripple through the crowd. "Miss Isabel looks absolutely stunning! That dress is incredible!"

    "Well, she''s a dancer and a celebrity. Of course she has the figure and presence to pull it off."

    "Isn''t that a custom UKISS gown? Practically impossible to get your hands on!"

    A low voice spoke up somewhere in the crowd, "I''m pretty sure I just saw someone else wearing that exact same UKISS dress..."

    The words weren''t loud, but they spread quickly. All eyes shifted between Isabel and Effie.

    Suddenly, there was real drama brewing. In high society-especially at an event like this-showing up in the same dress as someone else was the ultimate faux pas. It wasn''t just embarrassing; it was social suicide. And to make matters worse, everyone would be silently judging which of the two wore it better.

    Isabel, basking in the attention only moments before, immediately caught wind of the whispers. Her smile faltered. She scanned the crowd until her eyesnded on Effie.

    Effie stood off to the side, calm and collected. The custom UKISS gown shimmered under the lights, making her seem even more refined and unapproachable-like a rare blossom in full bloom.

    Isabel''s expression iced over in an instant.

    Damn it. They really were wearing the same dress.

 Chapter 123

    Isabel was so furious she could practically taste blood.

    She''d spent months nning and countless hours securing this dress, only to walk in and find someone else wearing the exact same thing.

    And not just anyone-Effie, of all people!

    Unbelievable.

    Effie hadn''t even registered what was happening before Sigrid, standing nearby, piped up with a smirk. ¡°Effie, I have to ask-how did you get your hands on a UKISS gown? Don''t tell me you''re wearing a knockoff. God, that''s just pathetic. How desperate are you to show off?"

    Sigrid could scarcely believe her eyes-two identical dresses at the same event? Impossible.

    Everyone knew UKISS couture pieces were one-of-a-kind. Which could only mean one thing: one of these was a fake.

    And this was Isabel-famed dancer and celebrity-no way would she be caught dead in a counterfeit.

    So, obviously, Effie must be the fraud.

    Sigrid gave Effie a derisive once-over. She''d thought it was odd from the start. How could Effie possibly afford a UKISS original? Turns out, she was shameless enough to wear a fake.

    Effie, too, frowned when she saw Isabel.

    Did they really just show up in the same dress?

    Whispers swept through the room: who was wearing the counterfeit?

    But Effie-unlike Sigrid-looked entirely unbothered. She knew for a fact her dress was the real deal.

    She met Sigrid''s gaze, her tone cool and steady. "And what proof do you have that my dress is fake? Or do you always talk out of your ass? It reeks when you do."

    "You-! Excuse me? Isn''t it obvious? UKISS never makes two of the same dress. So which of you is trying to pull a fast one?" Sigrid shot back, her voice rising. Before Effie could retort, Isabel strode over, eyes sweeping over Effie in disdain. She addressed the crowd, her tone dripping with confidence. "This gown was custom made for me at great expense-close to a million pounds. There''s no way mine''s a fake."

    A collective gasp rippled through the onlookers.

    A million pounds? Even for this crowd of socialites, that was real money. No one present would casually drop that much on a single dress.

    It seemed obvious to everyone: Isabel''s dress was genuine, and Effie''s was the knockoff.

    Isabel could barely contain her satisfaction. She''d been waiting for a chance to put Effie down, and now it had fallen right into herp.

    Wearing a counterfeit? In high society, that was social suicide.

    With a bright, triumphant smile, Isabel turned to Effie. "Miss Bagnold, what a coincidence that we have such simr taste. Where did you find your gown? Are you sure you weren''t duped?"

    Effie answered in a measured tone. "Who''s being duped is still up for debate. What makes you so certain my dress isn''t real? I paid a small fortune for mine, too."

    "But mine came through the official channels, and I have the receipt to prove it," Isabel replied, feigning innocence.

    "Well, so do I. We could argue all day, but what''s the point? There''s a simple way to settle this." Effie''s patience was clearly wearing thin.

    "And how, exactly, do you propose we do that?" Isabel asked, caught off guard.

    "If you''re a true UKISS devotee, you should know every gownes with an authenticity code. People can replicate the look, but they can''t copy the real thing."

    As soon as Effie finished, the room fell silent. Every eye locked onto her and Isabel.

    The UKISS authenticity code was a closely guarded secret¡ªeach bespoke gown had a unique identifier stitched into a hidden seam, verifiable only through the brand''s official channels.

    But not everyone knew about this-only the brand''s most exclusive clients were ever told.

 Chapter 124

    Isabel''s expression changed in an instant. Honestly, this was the first time she''d ever heard of something like this.

    She''d rarely run into anyone wearing the same dress before. Usually, she ced orders directly with the brand''s boutiques, though she hadn''t reached the VVIP status just yet. This time, the dress was so hard to get that she''d gone through a private contact. But she''d paid a fortune for it, so she wasn''t afraid of any verification.

    Effie was just digging her own grave-Isabel could already picture her embarrassment.

    With a confident smile, Isabel said, "Alright, since Miss Bagnold is so sure of herself, why don''t we verify it right here? But if it turns out to be a fake, I hope Miss Bagnold will be prepared to take responsibility for her actions."

    Effie smiled calmly, her voice steady. "Of course. If my dress is a fake, I''ll take responsibility. But, Miss Isabel, if it turns out your dress has a problem, what will you do?"

    Isabel''s smile faltered for a split second, but she quickly regained herposure. "There''s nothing to worry about. My dress is absolutely authentic."

    Sigrid, standing nearby, gave a sharpugh and cut in, "Effie, stop pretending to be brave. If your dress turns out to be a knock-off, let''s see how you''ll even show your face here!"

    Effie ignored Sigrid''s taunt. She simply took out her phone and opened the official UKISS authentication page, then gently lifted the hem of her gown to reveal the security code hidden along the inside seam. The code was so discreet that most people had no idea it was even there.

    A hush fell over the crowd as people watched in surprise. So there was a trick like this?

    Effie aimed the code at her phone''s camera. Instantly, the screen disyed the verification details:

    "UKISS Private Couture, Serial No. A-2025-001, Custom Order: Effie."

    The information was crystal clear-listing the exact date of order, designer''s name, and the exclusive serial number.

    The crowd gasped, murmurs rising around the room. "Oh my god, Effie''s dress is real! And it''s the very first custom piece UKISS made this year!"

    What kind of background did she have to get the very first custom order?

    Isabel''s face turned ghostly pale. She stared at Effie''s screen in disbelief, a wave of panic rising in her chest.

    She bit her lip, forcing herself to soundposed. "That... that''s impossible! How could UKISS have two of the same custom dress?"

    Effie put her phone away and nced at Isabel, her toneced with irony. "Miss Isabel, it''s your turn now. Why don''t you have your dress authenticated as well?"

    Isabel''s hands trembled as she clutched the edge of her gown, hesitating. She''d bought her dress from a private source-paid an outrageous price for it, but never once thought to check if it was real. Now, with Effie''s challenge hanging in the air, panic started to set in.

    Sigrid rushed to Isabel''s defense. "Effie, you''re going too far! How could Miss Isabel''s dress be fake? She''s a celebrity-she''d never wear a knock-off!"

    But the crowd was no longer so sure. Moments ago, they''d all assumed Effie was the one wearing a fake. Now that her dress had been proven genuine, the possibility that Isabel''s might be the counterfeit suddenly seemed very real.

    Effie gave a coldugh, her gaze fixed on Sigrid. "If you''re so convinced it''s genuine, then what''s the problem? Or is there something you''re afraid of?"

    Isabel''s face grew more and more ashen. She knew there was no way out now. Clenching her jaw, she finally lifted her gown to reveal the security code hidden in the lining.

 Chapter 125

    Isabel''s hands shook as she pulled out her phone and opened the UKISS authenticity verification page.

    She lined up the security code for the camera to scan, but the screen shed with

    a ring red warning: "This code does not exist. Please confirm the authenticity of your UKISS product."

    Gasps rippled through the crowd. All eyes snapped to Isabel, and the room

    erupted in a flurry of shocked whispers.

    "Oh my god, Isabel''s dress is a knockoff!"

    "No way. She''s a celebrity! How could she show up in fake designer?"

    "This is beyond embarrassing..."

    The color drained from Isabel''s face. She stared at her phone in disbelief, a wave of shame crashing over her. She''d never imagined being called out for wearing a counterfeit dress at an event like this.

    How could she ever show her face in public again?

    "N-no, I really spent a fortune on this. It can''t be a fake," Isabel stammered, desperate for someone to believe her.

    Tears welled in her eyes, her voice trembling-hoping for a shred of sympathy.

    But the crowd was merciless. No one had patience for celebrities caught in scandal, especially not for wearing fakes.

    Sigrid froze, stunned by how far things had spiraled. She opened her mouth, but no words came. How had this even happened? Effie''s dress turned out to be genuine how did she pull that off?

    Effie nced at Isabel, her voice calm and matter-of-fact. "Miss Isabel, looks like you got scammed. You should call the police-you might be able to get your money back."

    Isabel''s cheeks flushed scarlet. She shot Effie a furious re, then turned on her heel and hurried away, barely holding herself together.

    Themotion gradually died down, and the crowd dispersed.

    With the scandal contained for now, the ceremony was finally about to begin.

    Effie went off to find her colleagues, shaking her head in disbelief at what had just happened. She never expected such drama at a simple g. Thankfully, the rest of the evening unfolded smoothly, and she even made a few new friends.

    Suzan arrived not long after, arm in arm with Mitchell. Mitchell was no stranger to the fashion world-his family owned a jewelrypany, after all-so he was well- connected and had received an invitation right away. For him, this was a perfect opportunity to mingle, and Suzan was thrilled to attend as his official girlfriend for the first time. From now on, everyone would know she was Mitchell''s one and only.

    She clung to Mitchell''s arm as they entered the ballroom. They''d been chatting with a veteran in the fashion industry and had missed the earlier drama. By the time they walked over, the crowd was already dispersing.

    Suzan asked Sigrid what happened and was instantly fuming when she heard the story. She''d hoped to see Effie embarrassed, not Isabel. Sigrid, sensing her frustration, dragged her to the refreshment table. Word was, a renowned chef had been hired for the event.

    Suzan, eager for every scrap of gossip she''d missed, joined Sigrid for dessert and whisperedmentary.

    Meanwhile, Mitchell drifted through the crowd, and the moment he spotted Effie- standing in her elegant, custom-made gown, poised and graceful-he found himself unable to look away. His steps slowed, a tangle of emotions stirring inside him.

    He noticed Effie slip out to the terrace, and, almost without thinking, he followed. There was something he needed to say.

    Effie, feeling the room grow stuffy, had excused herself for a breath of fresh air.

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    She had barely walked a few steps when suddenly, someone grabbed her hand from behind.

    Startled, Effie spun around to find Mitchell''s shadowed, unreadable face staring back at her.

    Her brow furrowed slightly before she yanked her hand free with a sharp, determined motion.

    "What do you want?"

    It was the first time Mitchell had ever seen Effie''s face so close, and he was struck by how delicate her features were, her porcin skin making her look even more striking. But it was her eyes that caught him off guard-a rity and resolve in them, like stars shining with unwavering light.

    Mitchell froze for a moment, then caught himself, his voice softer than before. "Effie, there''s no need to be so hostile toward me."

    Effie fixed him with a cold, distant stare. "Mr. Lloyd, I don''t think there''s anything left for us to talk about. If that''s all, I''ll be on my way."

    She turned to leave, but Mitchell stepped in front of her again, blocking her path.

    His voice was low, tinged with urgency. ¡°Effie, I just don''t want you to do something reckless out of spite. Lyman-guys like him aren''t serious about anyone. He''s surrounded by women, and you''re only setting yourself up for heartbreak."

    Effie paused, ncing back at him with a hint of mockery in her eyes. "Mitchell, don''t you think you''re being a little presumptuous? As for Lyman, I know exactly what kind of man he is better than you do. At least he''s never pretended to care about me while still stringing along someone else. Unlike you, who talks about love but can''t seem to let go of Suzan."

    Mitchell''s face fell, words catching in his throat. For a moment, regret flickered in his eyes.

    Not far away, Suzan watched everything unfold.

    She had just finished grabbing a bite with Sigrid when she suddenly remembered Mitchell was here-and that Effie might be too.

    Her heart thudded with unease, praying she was wrong about her suspicions.

    After searching the venue, she finally found them on the balcony.

    Her expression darkened, her eyes shing with barely concealed anger.

    Suzan clenched her fists, silently swearing to herself: Effie, don''t even think about taking what''s mine. Mitchell belongs to me-no one else.

    Pressing her lips together, she whipped out her phone and quickly snapped a few photos of Mitchell and Effie, their confrontation captured forever.

    Effie, you brought this on yourself.

    It took Effie some effort to finally shake Mitchell off.

    What the hell is wrong with him? Every time he sees me, he just has to drag me into some tirade against Lyman.

    She knew exactly what kind of man Lyman was. So far, things between them had been easy, pleasant-no drama, no conflict.

    And Mitchell? He really ought to take a hard look at himself before pointing fingers.

    What a mess.

    She''d been in a good mood earlier, but now it waspletely ruined.

    Taking a deep breath, Effieposed herself and returned to the main hall.

    Her friends immediately crowded around, concern etched on their faces. "Effie, are you okay? You didn''t look so great just now."

    She offered a small, reassuring smile. "I''m fine. Just needed a little air, that''s all."

    Soon, she was chatting andughing with her friends again, the earlier incident already fading from her mind.

    The fashion g was winding down.

    Just then, Effie''s phone buzzed in her purse.

    She nced at the screen, and a smile lit up her face.

    As she answered, Lyman''s deep, maic voice came through the line. "Is it

    over?"

 Chapter 127

    Effie smiled at the sound of his voice, her tone light and easy. "Yeah, I just finished. Where are you?"

    A warm chuckle came through the line. "Turn around. I''m right behind you."

    Startled, Effie spun on her heel-and there he was, leaning casually against his car, watching her with that gentle look in his eyes.

    He wore a perfectly tailored ck suit, every inch the picture of elegance and charm.

    Effie hurried over, surprise and delight mingling in her voice. "What are you doing here? Didn''t you have a business dinner tonight?"

    Lyman slipped his arm gently around her waist, his tone tinged with yful affection. "Nothing''s more important than you. I wrapped things up early-I didn''t want you out here alone."

    Effie''s heart warmed at his words. She looked up at him, her eyes shining softly. "Thank you... darling."

    Even after all this time, saying "darling" made her blush. But Lyman insisted on it, even when they were out in public.

    Every time Effie called him that, he couldn''t help but smile, the corners of his mouth turning up, his mood visibly brightening.

    He leaned down and pressed a tender kiss to her forehead, his voice low and gentle. "Come on, let''s go home."

    Effie nodded, following Lyman into the car.

    The car pulled away from the event hall, disappearing into the night.

    Meanwhile, Mitchell and Suzan stood at the entrance, having witnessed the whole exchange.

    A wave of tension gripped Mitchell''s chest, tightening with every affectionate gesture between Lyman and Effie. His fists clenched unconsciously as he watched the car drive away.

    Suzan, fuming, couldn''t resist a jab, her wordsced with mockery. "Well, looks like your ex wasted no time finding her next catch. She certainly doesn''t mess around."

    Mitchell''s expression darkened instantly. His gaze stayed fixed on the road where Effie and Lyman had vanished, a storm of frustration and anger brewing inside him.

    His voice was cold and t. "Let''s go."

    Suzan was taken aback by his icy tone and fell silent, stifling herints.

    She bit her lip, her resentment toward Effie intensifying.

    Inwardly, she swore she would make Effie pay for this.

    Mitchell took a deep breath, trying to steady himself.

    He turned and strode to his car, his tone still distant. "I''ll drive you home."

    Suzan quietly slipped into the passenger seat.

    Somewhere along the way, Suzan realized that whenever Effie was involved, Mitchell became moody and unpredictable.

    A chill ran through her. Maybe it was time to pay closer attention.

    The car sped along the quiet streets, reaching her ce in no time.

    Suzan didn''t get out right away. Instead, she turned, voice low and sultry, trying to tempt Mitchell. "Mitchell, want toe up for a drink? I bought... a new pale greence set..."

    Little things like that usually worked on him.

    That trick had certainly won him over in the past.

    But Mitchell kept his eyes on the road ahead, his voice devoid of emotion. "Not tonight. It''ste. You should get some rest."

    Suzan saw there was no changing his mind. Disappointment washed over her, but she forced a smile. "Alright. Drive safe, okay? Call me if you need anything."

    Mitchell answered with a nomittal "Yeah," barely ncing her way.

    Suzan stepped out and stood by the curb, watching his car disappear down the street, a fierce hatred burning inside her.

    She clenched her fists so tightly her nails dug into her palms, but she didn''t feel a thing.

    "Effie, what makes you think you can always take what''s mine? I won''t let you get away with this," she muttered under her breath, eyes shing with cold determination.

 Chapter 128

    She immediately made a phone call.

    Just wait and see.

    The next morning, Effie got up right on time for work.

    Aftering homest night, Lyman had been in high spirits. In the end, both of them had stayed up muchter than usual before finally copsing into bed.

    Even though Effie felt a bit tired, her mood was surprisingly good.

    When she stepped into the living room, she found Lyman already busy making breakfast.

    She couldn''t help but admire him. No matter howte he went to bed or how exhausted he was, Lyman always managed to get up early and prepare breakfast.

    It made her feel genuinely cared for.

    Honestly, Effie would''ve been fine grabbing a quick bite, nothing fancy. But to Lyman, breakfast mattered. Maybe he felt guilty for being so busy all the time, always worrying he didn''t take care of her enough.

    "You''re up. Come have some breakfast," Lyman called out.

    "Okay." Effie smiled, nodding as she sat down at the table.

    They chatted idly as they ate together.

    After breakfast, Effie headed off to the office.

    But the moment she arrived, she noticed something felt off.

    Her coworkers were giving her odd looks.

    Effie paused, suddenly self-conscious. Was her appearance a mess?

    Then she remembered how Lyman had kissed her neckst night, and a wave of panic hit her.

    He always said the side of her neck was her most sensitive spot, so... God! What if there was a mark? How could she face anyone?

    She quickly set down her bag and hurried to the restroom to check herself in the mirror.

    As soon as she left, her colleagues instinctively gathered together, whispering in hushed voices.

    "Did you guys see? Is it true what''s all over the inte? Designer Bagnold never seemed like that kind of person to me..."

    A woman with dramatic makeup snorted. "Haven''t you heard? Never judge a book by its cover. She might act all proper, but who knows what she''s like behind closed doors?"

    "Exactly. Men only see what they want to see. Because she''s pretty, you all just assume she''s innocent," another female coworker chimed in with a scoff.

    "Hey, that''s not fair," someone protested. "I''m just saying, I judge by facts. I don''t believe Designer Bagnold is that kind of person."

    "Neither do I. You''re just jealous of her, that''s all."

    The two women who''d been bad-mouthing Effie turned red with anger.

    "Who''s jealous?"

    Their disagreement quickly escted into a noisy quarrel.

    Effie returned just then, frowning slightly.

    She caught bits and pieces of their conversation. Were they... talking about her?

    But she''d just checked herself in the restroom-her appearance was perfectly fine. There shouldn''t be any reason for gossip.

    Someone noticed Effieing back and coughed conspicuously, trying to warn the others.

    The group scrambled back to their desks, acting as if nothing had happened. That was a close call.

    Gossiping behind someone''s back and nearly getting caught-how mortifying.

    Now they sat rigid at their workstations, eyes glued to their screens, praying Effie hadn''t overheard.

    Shirley hadn''t heard any of this¡ªshe''d just returned from the records room.

    Spotting Effie, Shirley asked, "Effie, want me to grab you a coffee?"

    Effie nodded. "That''d be great, thanks."

    Shirley hurried off to make coffee, but she was back almost immediately, worry written all over her face.

    "Effie, have you... have you seen the trending news online?"

 Chapter 129

    "What''s trending?"

    Effie looked puzzled. She hadn''t seen anything trending online.

    She was never one for gossip anyway-unless someone called or texted her directly, she rarely bothered with online news. She knew most of it was just attention-seeking nonsense, people trying to stir up drama for clicks.

    So when Shirley brought up some hot topic, Effie was genuinely lost.

    She waspletely at sea.

    But then she remembered the strange looks her colleagues had given her earlier. Suddenly, it clicked.

    This trending topic-was it about her?

    Shirley saw the realization dawn in Effie''s eyes and rushed to exin, ¡°Effie, someone posted photos of youtest night, iming you''re the other woman¡ª saying you''re having an affair and breaking up someone''s rtionship. The inte''s going crazy over it."

    Effie had gotten a bit of attention online after the jewelrypetition a while back. The inte never forgets, so some people still remembered her name.

    Who would''ve thought that less than two monthster, she''d be trending again¡ª this time used of being a homewrecker? Goes to show, you can never judge a book by its cover.

    Talent and character aren''t always rted, apparently.

    Now, everyone online was weighing in, unleashing a storm of condemnation on Effie.

    "This woman should be locked up-she has no right to be a designer. Bet her jewelry reeks of her shamelessness."

    "Exactly, women like her are despicable. Probably seduced her way to the top." "Yeah, and isn''t that guy the CEO of the jewelrypany?"

    "God, this is disgusting. Someone like her should be booted out of the industry- no shame at all."

    And on and on it went.

    Maybe someone was deliberately stirring the pot, maybe there were even paid trolls involved, because within minutes, tens of thousands of simrments flooded in like a tidal wave.

    Shirley scrolled through them, growing more anxious by the second. She pulled out her phone and handed it to Effie.

    Effie hesitated for a moment, then took the phone and nced through the posts.

    It was obvious these pictures had been carefully edited, the angles chosen for maximum effect.

    They were taken at the Fashion Gst night-on the balcony, when Mitchell hade looking for her and wouldn''t leave her alone.

    Effie had tried to push him away the whole time, but of course, the photos didn''t show that. Instead, they made it look like the two of them were locked in some intimate struggle.

    The lighting was dim out on the balcony, but clear enough to make out faces. Whoever took the pictures had even zoomed in on Effie, as if worried she wouldn''t be recognizable.

    No wonder thements below were a wall of insults-many of them downright obscene.

    Effie stared at the photos for a long moment, thenposed herself.

    It must have been someone at the eventst night who took them.

    Effie already had a prime suspect. Other than Suzan, she couldn''t think of anyone else.

    She''d seen Suzan as she left the balcony.

    How calcting.

    If she wanted to make up a decent story, there were better options. But using Effie of being the other woman? That was turning the truthpletely upside down.

    Who was really meddling in whose rtionship?

    If Suzan really did this, was she trying to destroy herself?

    Effie''s expression turned icy. Maybe she''d been too soft on them all along.

    Shirley noticed Effie''s face growing colder and asked nervously, "Effie, what should we do now?"

    Effie replied calmly, "Don''t worry. I''ll handle it. You go take care of your work." Shirley was shocked. "Effie, this is already trending everywhere. If we don''t respond soon, it''ll only get worse. Shouldn''t we at least release a statement?"

 Chapter 130

    If things kept spiraling like this, there''d be no way to contain the fallout.

    Shirley never doubted Effie-not for a second.

    She simply wasn''t the type to get between a couple, and even though they hadn''t known each other long, Shirley trusted her instincts about Effie''s character.

    What she couldn''t understand was why someone was so determined to drag Effie through the mud.

    "Don''t worry. The truth wille out," Effie said calmly, her voice steady.

    With nothing else to do, Shirley could only return awkwardly to her seat, worry still etched on her face.

    But the scandal wasn''t dying down-in fact, it was only growing.

    In just an hour, the story had shot into the top five trending topics online, and it showed no signs of slowing down.

    With Effie staying quiet, whoever was behind the rumors grew bolder, paying off influencers and gossip ounts to fan the mes and spread more fabricated dirt.

    Soon, the inte was flooded with nastyments, calling Effie every degrading name imaginable and branding her a homewrecker. The tide of public opinion turned sharply against her.

    Suzan, on the other hand, was positively glowing that day.

    She''d started this whole thing on a whim, never expecting it would blow up so spectacrly.

    Sipping her tea with an air of satisfaction, she scrolled through thements.

    Effie, serves you right! That''s what you get for flirting with Mitchell! Hmph!

    Isabel, too, was in high spirits. She hadn''t expected there were others who despised Effie as much as she did.

    So, she quietly instructed Carole to stoke the fire even more, determined to keep the scandal burning hot.

    Let Lyman see Effie''s true colors, she thought. Effie was always fickle-two- timing, never loyal.

    Meanwhile, Effie was gearing up to fight back, but Lyman was already a step ahead.

    Early that morning, as soon as Luther arrived at the office, he rushed to update Lyman on the situation.

    "This is a mess," Luther said, concern etched across his face.

    He trusted Effie-he was sure she''d never cheat on Mr. Etheridge. There had to be some mistake.

    Lyman stood by the floor-to-ceiling window, his phone buzzing nonstop with trending alerts about Effie. He dismissed them without a word, but when he caught sight of a particrment "Heard this woman''s ying both sides"¡ª his expression turned icy cold.

    Luther approached cautiously. "Sir, should we have PR step in?"

    "Get them on it now. Wipe this off the trending list," Lyman replied, voice like steel. "And have someone pull the security footage. I want to know exactly who thinks they can mess with my people."

    Deep down, Lyman trusted Effie. She wasn''t like that.

    The first time he''d seen those doctored photos, anger had shed through him.

    But he''d quickly regained hisposure.

    It was obvious-someone was orchestrating this smear campaign.

    Luther hurried off to handle the crisis.

    Within minutes, the trending topic vanished.

    Shortly after, a well-known blogger posted a video exposing the so-called

    "intimate photos" as fakes-crude Photoshop jobs.

    The footage clearly showed Effie trying to push the other person away, visibly ufortable and repeatedly shaking them off.

    The video proved beyond doubt that Effie had been harassed, not the other way around.

    There was no affair, no betrayal¡ªjust a baseless usation.

    The blogger even emphasized that the video was the original, and anyone with doubts was wee to have it authenticated.

    Then, several reputable news outlets released statements condemning the malicious rumors.

    The narrative flipped so fast, the online spectators could hardly keep up.

    But the real shocker came when Etheridge Group''s official ount tagged the original gossip source with a single, chilling message:

    "See you in court."

    Three words, and the inte exploded.

    What on earth was happening?

    Suddenly, everyone was scrambling to connect the dots.

    What was Etheridge Group''s involvement in all this?

    It seemed the scandal was only getting juicier by the minute.

 Chapter 131

    When Shirley saw the news, she immediately told Effie.

    Honestly, Shirley was just as curious-why would The Etheridge Group suddenly make such a public statement?

    What exactly was the rtionship between Effie and The Etheridge Group?

    When Effie heard, a small smile curled on her lips, a gentle warmth spreading in her chest.

    So, he did find out after all.

    Just moments ago, Effie had been troubled, unsure of how to bring the matter up with Lyman.

    After all, she was married now.

    She had to consider her husband''s feelings.

    When the news first broke, Effie had panicked. She was racking her brain for a way to fight back, but Lyman had stepped in and swept her worries away in an instant.

    And he''d done it so quickly.

    He must trust me, she thought.

    Effie was still lost in thought when her phone rang, almost making her jump. She nced at the screen. It was the very person she''d been thinking about.

    As if he could read her mind.

    She bit her lip and answered, her voice unconsciously tinged with grievance. "Hey, you saw everything, didn''t you?"

    Lyman''s heart twisted at the sound of her soft, vulnerable voice. "I did. Are you alright?"

    "I''m fine. Do you believe me? Someone twisted my words and tried to stir up trouble on purpose," Effie said, cautious but hopeful.

    "I know. I''ve already asked Luther to take care of it. Don''t worry. Wait for me after work-I''ll pick you up," Lyman reassured her.

    "Okay. Thank you, darling," Effie replied gratefully.

    So this is what it feels like to have someone to lean on.

    She''d never felt this before.

    With Mitchell, she''d always been the one chasing after him.

    Mitchell was the untouchable golden boy; Effie always had to handle things on her

    own.

    So when trouble came this time, she''d automatically nned to manage it herself.

    "Silly, I''m your husband. Of course it''s my job to protect you. From now on, if anything happens, you have to tell me. I won''t let anyone who hurts you off the hook," Lyman soothed.

    "Okay." Effie nodded, even though he couldn''t see her.

    After hanging up, she couldn''t help but keep smiling.

    Meanwhile, in Suzan''s apartment, a teacup crashed to the floor, shattering and sending tea sttering everywhere.

    "This can''t be happening!" Suzan stared at her phone, face drained of color.

    All the rumors about Effie had been wiped clean from the inte.

    It was as if the scandal had never even existed.

    Damn it!

    What unsettled her most was seeing The Etheridge Group publicly tag the ount that started the rumors. For a moment, Suzan''s nerves prickled with fear.

    Could it be that Effie really was involved with Lyman?

    Otherwise, why would The Etheridge Group step up to defend her?

    She''d underestimated Effie, clearly.

    It looked like she''d need to be more cautious from now on.

    Still, Suzan wasn''t too worried. After all, money could make anything disappear, and she''d made sure nothing could be traced back to her. It was just a shame to waste such a golden opportunity.

    When Isabel saw the news, she was livid.

    Who would have thought Lyman would go so far to defend that woman, even

    using thepany''s power to shield her?

    Unbelievable.

    But Isabel kept her anger to herself.

    She knew exactly how capable Lyman was.

    If he ever found out she was involved, the consequences would be disastrous.

    The thought made her eyes go cold.

    There was still plenty of time. She''d just have to wait for her chance.

    Soon enough, public opinion flipped.

    #EffieWasFalselyused#

    #TheEtheridgeGroupSetsTheRecordStraight#

    #RumorMongersArrested#

    Effie sat at her desk, eyes fixed on the flood of rifying statements on her<pputer screen. She let out a slow, relieved breath.

 Chapter 132

    Shirley burst into the room, practically glowing with excitement. "Effie! This is amazing-the truth''s finally out!"

    Effie allowed herself a small smile, but her eyes stayed calm and piercing, giving nothing away.

    "It''s not over yet," she said quietly, tapping her fingertips against the table as if lost in thought.

    Shirley hesitated, uncertainty flickering across her face. "Effie, you mean... there''s still someone who hasn''t been found out?"

    Effie looked up, a faint, almost mocking smirk touching her lips. "Exactly. The one who got caught was just a scapegoat. But it doesn''t matter. Let them y their little games-next time, they won''t get so lucky."

    Shirley nodded, half-understanding. "Right. Good always wins out in the end. They''ll get what''sing to them."

    Everyone thought that would be the end of it.

    But for Suzan, things were far from smooth.

    She''d been called home by Shepard.

    Now, in the Bagnold family''s living room, the atmosphere was heavy and tense.

    Suzan sat primly on the sofa, barely daring to breathe, her hands folded in herp. She was still confused-why had she been summoned home so suddenly? A nce at Vera brought her nofort; Vera just shook her head, signaling she knew nothing.

    Shepard sat across from them, his face carved with fury.

    "Suzan, you ungrateful child! Is there anything you won''t stoop to? Do you realize you nearly ruined this family?"

    Suzan stared at him, stunned. "Dad, why are you yelling at me? What did I do wrong?"

    Panic prickled at her. Did her father know about the incident trending online?

    "You... you still don''t know what you did? Effie is your sister, no matter what, and you plotted against her? You think I wouldn''t find out? And you were so careless you exposed yourself! Are you trying to get yourself killed?" Shepard''s hand shook as he jabbed a finger at her, practically grinding his teeth in rage.

    The truth was, Shepard hadn''t known any of this¡ªuntil the scapegoat Suzan had used, terrified after drawing the attention of the Etheridge Group, came running to their house looking for her.

    That idiot. Suzan had gotten someone else to do her dirty work, but managed to expose herself in the process.

    Unbelievable.

    Suzan hadn''t thought it through at the time. She''d contacted the other party using her backup phone-a phone she rarely carried and only used for emergencies. She thought it was safe. But then the Etheridge Group stepped in, backing Effie, and everyone involved panicked.

    Desperate, the scapegoat tried to call Suzan, but Suzan didn''t answer. With no other option, they showed up at her house.

    Shepard had happened to be home. Once he pieced together what had happened, he was so furious he nearly had a heart attack.

    God above-how could his own daughter do something so reckless?

    And to make matters worse, she hadn''t even bothered to hide her tracks. If those two went to Lyman with what they knew, the Bagnold family would be finished.

    Unbelievable.

    Shepard didn''t like Effie, but even he had to admit her connection to Lyman couldn''t be ignored now. Effie might deny it, but after seeing Lyman''s reaction today, Shepard knew he had to pay attention-especially since he still wanted to do business with the Etheridge Group.

    He couldn''t let Suzan ruin everything.

    "Honey, please, calm down," Vera tried to soothe him from the sidelines, her own nerves frayed. She''d never seen Shepard this angry before, and it frightened her.

    "This is your fault!" Shepard snapped, turning his fury on Vera. "You spoiled her rotten!"

    Vera swallowed her resentment, biting back any retort. Deep down she seethed- damn Effie, why couldn''t she just disappear?

    Suzan stood there, silent, her hands clenched so tightly her nails dug into her palms. Rage and helplessness churned in her eyes, threatening to spill over.

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    "Dad, I just wanted to teach Effie a lesson! She''s the one who tried to seduce Mitchell. It took me so long to finally get together with him..." Suzan spoke through clenched teeth, trying to justify herself.

    "A lesson?!" Shepard mmed his hand down on the table, making the teacup tter loudly. "Do you have any idea who Lyman is? With a snap of his fingers, he could bankrupt the Bagnold Group! And you had the nerve to pull your little stunt right under his nose?!"

    Suzan flinched, her whole body trembling at his outburst. Her eyes reddened, but she still stubbornly lifted her chin. "There''s no way Lyman is serious about Effie."

    What was she afraid of, anyway? Coward.

    "You''re still not admitting you were wrong? If your n had actually worked, maybe you could''ve gotten away with it¡ªno one the wiser. But you got caught, and they hit back. If anyone keeps digging, the whole Bagnold family could be dragged into this mess. Utter stupidity."

    Vera quickly reached for her daughter''s hand, urging her in a low voice, "Suzan, apologize to your father. Now."

    Vera knew Shepard well-he never tolerated anyone challenging him.

    Suzan bit her lip hard, and after a long pause, finally forced out, "...I''m sorry."

    Shepard took a deep breath, struggling to restrain his anger. His voice was cold andmanding. "Keep a low profile for now. Don''t draw attention to yourself. I''ve already arranged for this to be cleaned up. I expect everything to be handled discreetly."

    He emphasized his point. Lately, he''d also been in talks with the Etheridge Group, so caution was more important than ever.

    Suzan muttered begrudgingly, "Fine. I get it."

    After work, Effie packed up her things and left the office.

    Just as she stepped outside, her phone started ringing.

    She nced at the screen, her heart skipping-she thought it might be Lyman. Smiling, she answered quickly.

    But instead, it was Mitchell''s voice on the other end.

    Effie''s smile faded. She almost hung up on him, but Mitchell seemed to anticipate that and hurriedly stopped her. "Effie, wait, I just need to talk. Please don''t hang up."

    Effie furrowed her brows, her voice turning cool. "What is it?"

    "Are you okay? I saw the photos online. I''m sorry you got dragged into this," Mitchell said, uncharacteristically apologetic.

    Effie pressed her lips together. So he still had no idea who was behind all this? She wondered how he''d react if he found out it was his darling Suzan who set the whole thing up.

    Lyman had already asked Luther to investigate. The security footage showed Suzan taking photos from the balcony-she was the prime suspect. But when Luther''s people interrogated the two scapegoats, they both insisted they acted alone, denying any connection to others. The trail had gone cold.

    Effie stayed silent for a few moments.

    Mitchell spoke up again, "Are you alright? Did this scare you?"

    Effie couldn''t help butugh. Really, did he think this was such a big deal? She hadn''t even started fighting back yet-how could she possibly be scared?

    "Mr. Lloyd, if you''re worried about causing me trouble, then maybe you should just keep your distance from now on," Effie replied evenly.

    "You... I''m trying to talk to you seriously here," Mitchell said, his brows drawing together in frustration.

    He''d called her the moment he heard about what happened, genuinely

    concerned. But Effie didn''t seem to appreciate it at all.

    His voice grew heavier. Effie was never like this with him before.

    "I am being serious. Instead of calling me, maybe you should keep your girlfriend

    in check. If she pushes me too far, she''s the one who''ll have to deal with the consequences," Effie shot back, her tone sharp.

    With that, she ended the call.

    Mitchell was left stunned, not even getting a chance to respond before the cold beep of a disconnected line sounded in his ear.

    He sat there, confused. Did she just say girlfriend? Could Suzan be involved in all this?

    Mitchell''s frown deepened.

    Effie, meanwhile, let out a long breath after hanging up.

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    As she stepped out of the building, Effie spotted Lyman''s car waiting across the street.

    She hurried over, pulling open the door as she slipped inside.

    "Did you have to wait long?" she asked apologetically.

    Lyman nced up, his eyes lingering on her tired face. A gentle smile yed at his lips as he asked, his concern clear, "I just got here. Are you alright?"

    Effie settled into the passenger seat, buckled her seatbelt, and turned to look at him. "I''m fine. Thank you foring to get me. How did you have time to pick me up today?"

    He started the engine, his tone low and certain. "Youe first. Everything else can wait."

    Truth was, after the events of today, Lyman had wanted nothing more than to be by her side.

    Even though Effie tried to y it down, he knew none of this had been easy for her.

    His words warmed her. "It''s just a few people stirring up trouble on purpose," she said softly.

    He nced over, unwavering. "You''re with me. I won''t let anyone mess with you."

    Effie''s heart skipped; her ears burned at his words.

    She turned to the window, trying to hide her fluster.

    They drove through bustling city streets, neon lights painting Effie''s profile in

    sharp relief, outlining every delicate feature.

    After a moment, Lyman spoke again, his tone gentle but firm. "Whatever happens

    in the future, promise me you''ll tell me."

    Effie''s lips curved into a smile. "Alright."

    There was something about hismanding tone that set her at ease.

    The car pulled up to an upscale restaurant. Lyman got out, circled around, and

    opened her door. "You must be hungry. Let''s eat first."

    Effie looked up at him, her smile bright. "Thank you, Mr. Etheridge, for the generous hospitality."

    Lyman reached out and ruffled her hair, his voice teasing and warm. "There''s more to look forward to tonight. Ready for it? Come on."

    She instantly caught his meaning, and her cheeks flushed crimson.

    Most days, he seemed reserved,posed. But when it came to this, he had no filter at all-he''d say the wildest things without batting an eye.

    Was this his true self?

    The thought of what might happenter made her face burn.

    Together, they walked into the restaurant, the golden light casting their silhouettes in perfect harmony.

    ...

    Meanwhile, Mitchell was lost in thought.

    Remembering what Effie had said earlier, he dialed Suzan''s number.

    Suzan lit up when she saw his name on the screen.

    "Mitchell!" she answered sweetly, excitement in her voice. "Are you done with work?"

    Mitchell''s tone was cool. "Suzan, what''s going on online about Effie?"

    She froze, then quickly feigned ignorance. "What are you talking about? Mitchell, I don''t know anything."

    He frowned. "Was this your doing? The stuff about Effie?"

    Suzan''s heart raced, but she forced herself to sound aggrieved. "How could you think that of me? Why would I do something like that? Did my sister tell you that? She''s always had it out for me¡ªshe must be misunderstanding..."

    Mitchell''s expression softened a little. "As long as it wasn''t you. I don''t want you involved in any of this."

    Suzan bit her lip, her eyes welling with tears. "So you''d rather believe her than me? Is that it?"

    "It''s not that," Mitchell sighed, rubbing his forehead, "It''s just...st night was strange, that''s all. Don''t overthink it."

    "Mitchell, do you not care about me anymore? We haven''t spent any time together

    in ages," she said, her voice small and wounded.

    He let out a tiredugh. "Don''t be silly. Of course I do. I''lle over tonight, okay?"

    Suzan brightened instantly. "Alright! I''ll get ready. I''ll have a surprise for you."

    He gave a nomittal "Yeah," and hung up.

    Nothing seemed to be going right these days.

 Chapter 135

    Suzan set her phone down, a triumphant smile lighting up her face.

    She sauntered over to her wardrobe, carefully selecting a seductive nightgown, then spritzed on Mitchell''s favorite perfume.

    Staring at her reflection, she let out a cold, self-assuredugh. ¡°No matter what, I''m always the one Mitchell truly cares about," she murmured to herself,

    satisfaction gleaming in her eyes.

    Pressing her lips together thoughtfully, Suzan recalled her earlier scheme. It seemed it was time to put her n into action.

    Mitchell was still wavering, so Suzan knew she''d have to get to him through Adeline. Adeline was at the age where all she wanted was a grandchild-Suzan could certainly use that to her advantage.

    As night fell, Mitchell arrived just as he''d promised.

    Suzan had been ready for hours. She''d arranged a candlelit dinner, slipped into her sheer nightgown, and greeted him at the door with an alluring smile.

    "Mitchell, you''re here! I''m so happy to see you," she purred, melting into his arms.

    The scent of her perfume wrapped around him, and before he knew it, Mitchell''s arm was around her waist.

    Suzan could tell he was falling under her spell.

    She deliberately took his hand and led him toward the dining table. In the candlelight, her nightgown looked even more revealing.

    ¡°I made your favorite steak,¡± she said sweetly. "You always say my cooking is better than any chef''s."

    Steak was, truthfully, the only dish Suzan could master-because it was Mitchell''s favorite. To please him, she''d even taken lessons from a professional chef.

    Mitchell nced over the table, noticing the care she''d put into every detail. His expression grewplicated. Lately, he''d been a bit distant with her, and now a twinge of guilt gnawed at him.

    "I''m not really hungry right now. I just want-" Mitchell''s voice dropped, his gaze burning as it lingered on Suzan.

    His hand was still at her waist, fingers unconsciously tracing the silky fabric of her nightgown.

    Suzan felt the change in his touch, his breath, his body. She was quietly delighted, though she kept her face innocent and drew back a half-step, biting her lip ever so slightly. ¡°Mitchell... why don''t we eat first?" she suggested coyly.

    Mitchell didn''t answer. Instead, he swept her up into his arms and carried her straight to the bedroom.

    Soon, the room was filled with rising heat and the sounds of passion.

    The next morning, after Effie got up, Lyman informed her that a client would be visiting over the weekend with his wife to discuss business, and he might need her to apany them-since the client was bringing his spouse.

    Effie agreed immediately. After all, given her role, she was expected to be a supportive partner.

    The weekend arrived quickly.

    Early that morning, Effie and Lyman drove to the airport to greet their guests.

    This client was a key partner of The Etheridge Group, here to negotiate a major deal involving a luxury hot springs resort. With so much at stake-hundreds of millions on the line-everyone was taking it seriously.

    Apparently, the client''sst name was Smith, and he valued family, which exined why he''d brought his wife along.

    It was Effie''s first time facing a client side by side with Lyman, so she felt a little

    nervous.

    Before long, they spotted Mr. and Mrs. Smith in the arrivals hall.

    To her surprise, Mr. Smith looked rather young and refined-nothing like the middle-aged, balding executives she''d expected. He couldn''t have been more than a few years older than Lyman.

    Lyman noticed Effie eyeing their guest a bit longer than necessary and frowned slightly. Clearing his throat, he slid his arm around Effie''s waist and drew her closer to his side. Effie snapped back to herself, realizing she''d been staring. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she quickly put on a polite smile.

 Chapter 136

    "Mr. Smith, Mrs. Smith, wee." Lyman''s voice was low and steady, edged with his usual reserve.

    Mr. Smith offered a polite smile as he reached out to shake Lyman''s hand. "Mr. Etheridge, I''ve heard so much about you. It''s a pleasure to finally have the chance to work together."

    His gaze drifted to Effie then, and for a brief moment, his eyes lit up-though he quicklyposed himself.

    With gentle courtesy, he said, "And you must be Mrs. Etheridge? The rumors don''t do you justice. Mr. Etheridge is truly a fortunate man."

    Effie nodded gracefully. "You tter me, Mr. Smith. Wee to both you and Mrs. Smith."

    When Mr. Smith extended his hand, Effie responded in kind, offering her own. But as their hands met, she felt the faintest brush-almost as if his fingers had deliberately grazed her palm. A small shiver ran down her spine.

    Mrs. Smith stepped forward, her manner warm as she sped Effie''s hand. "Mrs. Etheridge, I hope we won''t trouble you too much during our stay."

    Sensing Mrs. Smith''s genuine goodwill, Effie felt her nerves ease slightly. "It''s no trouble at all, Mrs. Smith. It''s my pleasure."

    After the brief exchange of pleasantries, Lyman instructed the driver to load the luggage, and together they set off for the hotel.

    Their hotel was nestled within the resort, offering everything from dining to entertainment¡ªa one-stop haven for their stay.

    On the ride over, Mr. Smith and Lyman took the front seats, already deep in discussion about the details of their business partnership. Effie and Mrs. Smith settled into the back, their conversation turning to lighter topics.

    "Mrs. Etheridge, what do you enjoy doing in your free time? Yourplexion is stunning-so clear and fair. Even this close, I can''t see a single pore!" Mrs. Smith remarked with a friendlyugh, clearly hoping to break the ice.

    But it wasn''t just idle ttery; Effie''s skin truly had a rosy, porcin glow-like a freshly peeled egg, the kind that always drew admiring nces.

    "You''re too kind, Mrs. Smith. I''m not nearly as perfect as you say," Effie replied warmly. "I like to read, and sometimes I arrange flowers. What about you? What do you enjoy?"

    Mrs. Smith seemed genuinely easygoing and talkative. Though her looks were rather ordinary, she carried herself with a pleasant air.

    "Oh, I absolutely love to travel. It''s wonderful to get away with my husband for a change¡ªI''m looking forward to rxing here," Mrs. Smith replied, eyes bright with anticipation.

    Effie''s openness made Mrs. Smith like her even more. After all, as Lyman''s wife, Effie''s status was nothing to scoff at-yet she waspletely down-to-earth.

    Effie nodded. "Then let me show you around while you''re here. There are a few local sights I think you''ll really enjoy."

    Mrs. Smith''s face lit up. "That sounds wonderful! And maybe you can share some of your skincare secrets with me?"

    Effieughed. "Honestly, I just stick to a simple routine-moisturizer morning and night, and I''m careful with sunscreen..."

    Their conversation flowed easily for the rest of the drive.

    Once they reached the hotel, Lyman and Mr. Smith headed to the conference

    room to continue their business talks. Effie apanied Mrs. Smith to her suite, helping her settle in.

    Mrs. Smith was delighted with her room. She squeezed Effie''s hand. "Mrs. Etheridge, you''ve gone to so much trouble for us."

    "Not at all," Effie assured her. "Please, if you need anything, just let me know."

    That afternoon, Effie took Mrs. Smith to the city''s art gallery and a nearby tearoom. The two women hit it off, and Mrs. Smith couldn''t stop praising Effie''s thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

 Chapter 137

    As evening settled in, the group gathered for dinner at the resort hotel. Laughter and lively conversation filled the air; everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves.

    Lyman was especially attentive to Effie. Even while chatting with Mr. Smith, he kept an eye on her, making sure her te was never empty. Whenever Effie reached for the fish, Lyman would carefully remove the bones for her.

    His thoughtful gestures warmed Effie''s heart. She turned her head slightly, giving him a gentle smile. "Thank you," she whispered.

    Mrs. Smith, watching the exchange, grinned and teased, ¡°Mr. Etheridge, you''re spoiling your wife! It''s really quite enviable."

    Mr. Smith nodded in agreement. "Absolutely. Mr. Etheridge, you''re young, sessful, and blessed with a wonderful family. You really are living the dream.¡±

    Lyman smiled calmly, though his gaze never left Effie. "I am," he said, "I''m very fortunate."

    Effie, caught off guard by his candid words, blushed and lowered her head, hiding behind a sip of tea.

    The meal carried on in high spirits. Lyman and Mr. Smith soon became engrossed in conversation-discussing business, policies, and future ns. Both men clearly knew their stuff. Effie hadn''t been following the conversation closely, but even so, she couldn''t help but marvel at how knowledgeable Lyman was. Mr. Smith, too, impressed her with his insights.

    People who achieve great things, she thought, really are in a league of their own. With the two men deep in discussion, Effie found herself growing bored. After a while, she excused herself and headed to the restroom.

    On her way back, she noticed a small courtyard just beyond the corridor. Wanting some fresh air, she wandered over, letting the night breeze clear her mind.

    Suddenly, she saw Mr. Smith approaching. He looked unsteady on his feet, likely from one too many drinks, and seemed liable to stumble at any moment.

    Effie hesitated. It didn''t feel quite right to approach¡ªafter all, there were boundaries to consider.

    But Mr. Smith spotted her almost immediately, his gaze fixed intently on her. "Mrs. Etheridge! What a coincidence, stepping out for some air as well?"

    Effie nodded politely. "Yes, I was just about to head back inside."

    Something in Mr. Smith''s eyes unsettled her. She couldn''t put her finger on it, but

    it made her skin crawl. Maybe she was just imagining things.

    Not wanting to linger, Effie offered a brief smile and started to walk past him.

    As she moved by, Mr. Smith suddenly reached out and grabbed her hand. "Mrs. Etheridge, what perfume are you wearing? It''s absolutely lovely..."

    Effie jerked her hand away, stepping back quickly, her expression turning cold. "Mr. Smith, please keep your distance."

    Mr. Smith had intended to y the fool, to test the waters, but he hadn''t expected such a strong reaction. After all, she was Lyman''s wife. Still, there was something about her her beauty was understated, natural, not the overly made-up look he saw so often. She was captivating, even more so because of her quiet charm.

    Catching himself, Mr. Smith tried to recover, putting on a disarming smile. "Oh, Mrs. Etheridge, don''t misunderstand. I just thought your fragrance was unique and wanted to know the brand so I could get some for my wife."

    He was no stranger to these situations-years in business had taught him how to talk his way through anything.

    Effie forced down her disgust, her voice cool. "I''m sorry, but I don''t discuss personal matters like that with others. If you''re interested, perhaps you could ask your wife what kind of scent she prefers.¡±

 Chapter 138

    "My apologies, I really am sorry. I got a bit carried away with the good mood and the drinks tonight. Really, I apologize," Mr. Smith stammered, awkward and

    contrite.

    ¡°I hope there won''t be a next time. I''m quite particr about those things, so I hope you''ll understand," Effie replied coolly.

    With that, she didn''t give Mr. Smith another chance to speak. She turned and strode away, not looking back.

    Mr. Smith watched her retreating figure, a brooding look flickering in his eyes.

    Effie felt utterly disgusted.

    She couldn''t shake the feeling that her hand was filthy. The moment Mr. Smith had reached out to grab her, she''d felt goosebumps race up her arms.

    She dug a pack of wet wipes from her purse and scrubbed her hands, trying to wash away the sensation.

    When she returned to the dining room, Lyman was waiting, his brow faintly furrowed, gaze fixed on the doorway. He was clearly looking for her.

    Seeing here back, his expression softened a little. He leaned closer and asked quietly, "What took you so long?"

    Effie didn''t want to make a scene at the dinner table, so she just smiled and replied, "I just needed a breath of fresh air in the little garden out back."

    Lyman immediately picked up on the forced brightness in her smile, but given thepany, he let it go. He simply gave her hand a gentle squeeze. "Tired? Do you want to head back to the room and rest?"

    She shook her head. "I''m fine. Mrs. Smith is still here-I''ll stay a bit longer."

    Not long after, Mr. Smith returned as well, cheeks flushed, his eyes unfocused. He was clearly even drunker than before. He sat down, but kept casting sidelong nces at Effie-his stare was unsettling, almost predatory.

    In truth, Mr. Smith was feeling anxious. He worried Effie might tell Lyman what had happened earlier. He had looked forward to this business partnership for a long time¡ªhe couldn''t afford to screw it up now.

    Still, just the thought that this woman belonged to Lyman, and that he might somehow win her over, filled him with a twisted sense of superiority.

    Lyman''s expression darkened; he rapped his knuckles lightly on the table, his tone perfectly neutral. "Mr. Smith, let''s discuss the partnership details tomorrow. I think we should call it a night."

    Mr. Smith froze, but quickly forced a smile. "Yes, of course. You''re right, Mr. Etheridge. We should all get some rest."

    Mrs. Smith seemed to sense something off as well. She stood up, eager to smooth things over. "Thank you both for hosting us tonight, Mr. and Mrs. Etheridge. Let''s talk more in the morning."

    Effie nced at Mrs. Smith, her heart softening with sympathy. She couldn''t help but wonder if Mrs. Smith knew what kind of man her husband really was.

    After dinner, Mr. and Mrs. Smith retired to their suite.

    Lyman took Effie''s hand, and together they strolled along the resort''skeside path.

    The night was calm, the breeze rippling the water.

    "Was today tiring? Are you alright?" Lyman asked softly.

    Effie paused, surprised by his attentiveness. She shook her head. "Not at all. Mrs. Smith is lovely-we had a great conversation."

    She thought to herself, though, that Mr. Smith was another story. It would be best

    to keep her distance from him in the future. Once the deal was done, they''d be gone, anyway.

    In the end, Effie decided not to mention what had happened. She didn''t want to jeopardize the business.

    Lyman stopped, turning to face her. His deep eyes were gentle in the moonlight. "Thank you, Effie. You have to put up with so much for my work, even entertaining clients."

    Effie looked up at him, earnest and sincere. "It''s nothing. We''re married-it''s only natural for us to support each other."

    A rush of emotion swept over Lyman. He pulled her into his arms, holding her tightly.

    Effie leaned against his solid chest, listening to the strong, steady beat of his heart, feeling utterly safe.

    "Effie, I''m so grateful for you," he murmured into her ear.

    She wrapped her arms around his waist, her voice soft, "So am I.¡±

 Chapter 139

    They held each other for a moment before Lyman released her andced his fingers through hers, leading her onward. "Mr. Smith and the others still have ns tomorrow. Do you want to keep Mrs. Smithpany for a bit longer?"

    Effie nodded. "I''ve already made arrangements. Tomorrow, I''ll take her to the flower fields on the edge of town and to a local artisan''s workshop. I think she''ll really enjoy it."

    No matter what, she was determined to be a gracious host.

    Lyman smiled, warmth in his eyes. "You always think of everything. You really are the best wife a man could ask for."

    Effie shot him a yful wink. "Of course. Mrs. Etheridge isn''t just a title, you know."

    He chuckled at her mischief and couldn''t resist giving her nose a gentle squeeze. "Troublemaker."

    Night had settled in by the time they returned to their hotel suite.

    Effie had just changed into her pajamas when her phone buzzed. She nced at the screen: it was a message from her best friend, Nita. "So, how''s your romantic getaway with Mr. Etheridge going?"

    Grinning, Effie typed back, "Not exactly a couples'' retreat-we''re entertaining clients."

    Nita replied almost instantly, "Doesn''t mean you two can''t sneak in some sweetness! By the way, college reunion on Friday night. Are youing?"

    A lot of their old ssmates worked in Neo-Arcadia these days. They used to meet up all the time, but everyone had gotten busy, and it had been ages since thest gathering.

    Effie considered for a moment, then wrote back, "If you''re going, count me in."

    Just then, Lyman came over and wrapped his arms around her from behind, resting his chin on her shoulder. "Who''s got you smiling at your phone?"

    She nced up at him. "It''s Nita. She said there''s a college get-together on Friday."

    He kissed her cheek. "You should go. Catch up with your friends. Want me to help arrange something?"

    The Etheridge Group owned plenty of top-tier hotels and lounges in town-perfect for a reunion.

    Effie shook her head with a smile. "No need. Our ss president probably already sorted everything out."

    She didn''t want to make a big deal of it.

    In fact, apart from Nita, none of her old ssmates knew she was married.

    Effie preferred to keep her private life private.

    "If you need anything from me, just say the word," Lyman said softly.

    She felt a wave of warmth and nodded.

    Effie sent her reply to Nita right away.

    Nita texted back with a cheeky emoji: "Great, we''ll go together! Don''t worry, I won''t get in the way of your newlywed bliss."

    Effie could onlyugh, rolling her eyes.

    The next morning, everyone gathered in the lobby again.

    The resort was sprawling, with a golf course, stables, swimming pool, spa, gardens, and countless ways to unwind. You could stay for days and never get bored.

    Lyman and Mr. Smith headed off for a round of golf.

    Effie and Mrs. Smith settled into a shaded spot to wait for them.

    After a few minutes, Mrs. Smith turned to Effie and asked, "Effie, what''s that perfume you''re wearing? It smells wonderful."

    Effie paused, then reached into her bag and pulled out a small bottle. "It''s not a big-name brand-just a lesser-knownbel, but it has a fresh scent I really like. This one''s brand new. If you don''t mind, I''d love for you to have it."

    She wasn''t sure why Mrs. Smith had brought it up, but she decided to go along with it.

    Mrs. Smith''s face lit up. "How could I possibly mind? I''m thrilled-thank you so much."

    Effie smiled gently, hoping she hadn''t embarrassed Lyman somehow, and wishing the business partnership would go smoothly.

    Mrs. Smith, always quick to read a room, slipped a bracelet from her wrist and fastened it around Effie''s.

 Chapter 140

    The moment Effie realized how valuable the gift was, she shook her head in protest. "Mrs. Smith, you''re being far too generous. This is much too expensive-I really can''t ept it."

    "Oh, don''t be silly," Mrs. Smith replied with a gentle smile. "It''s nothing

    extravagant, just something I picked up in a little shop while traveling abroad. I thought it was unique, and since fate brought us together, I wanted to give you a small token of appreciation."

    "Really, Mrs. Smith, it''s not necessary," Effie insisted, trying to hand the gift back. She knew deep down she couldn''t keep it.

    Mrs. Smith hesitated, then spoke with some difficulty. "Effie, the truth is, I wanted to apologize. I''m honestly embarrassed-Rankin had too much to drinkst night and behaved terribly. I feel awful about it."

    Effie was taken aback; she hadn''t expected Mrs. Smith to know.

    "Mrs. Smith, you really don''t have to-" Effie started, feeling a twinge of sympathy for her.

    It probably wasn''t the first time Mrs. Smith had to clean up after Mr. Smith''s

    messes.

    Effie could see Mrs. Smith wasn''t happy. Especiallyst night at dinner, when she caught the look of envy in Mrs. Smith''s eyes as Lyman treated Effie with such care. On the surface, the Smiths put on the perfect couple act, but after spending a day with them, Effie knew the truth.

    Mrs. Smith let out a bitter littleugh, as if Effie''s silence had confirmed her suspicions, and she decided not to hide anymore. "Effie, you''re a smart woman. I''m sure you''ve figured it out-Rankin and I don''t really have much of a rtionship. Our marriage was arranged by our families. We barely met twice before getting engaged, but he seemed decent, honest... and he treated me well, at least at first."

    Her voice caught. She paused, gathering herself.

    "If it''s too painful, you don''t have to go on," Effie said gently. She could already guess the rest-she''d seen enough of these soap opera dramas to know how they ended.

    "No, it''s alright. Honestly, just talking to you makes me feel better." Mrs. Smith gave a sad smile. "All these years, I''ve just put up with it for the sake of the kids. I''m just waiting for them to grow up, that''s all."

    "He was never the faithful type, not really. He just yed the part well enough to fool my family. My father, who always prided himself on reading people, was taken in too. He gave Rankin every opportunity, every resource. Once Rankin got what he wanted, his true colors came out."

    "He started openly keeping mistresses, chasing after any woman that caught his eye-even married ones. There was a scandal once, he got caught and someone ckmailed us for millions."

    "I''ve endured it all for the children, and I can''t let my family worry. But at least he''s generous with me¡ªthe things I want, he buys. I''ve learned to just go along with it, and whenever he needs me to y the perfect wife, I ask for a little more in return."

    When she finished, Mrs. Smith looked at Effie and managed a strained smile. "It''s a lot, isn''t it?"

    Effie sighed. In truth, stories like this were all toomon in wealthy families-the same old drama, just with different faces. She''d stopped being surprised a long time ago.

    She fumbled for words. "Mrs. Smith, I hope you can focus on yourself and find happiness. There''s so much more to life that''s worth chasing after."

    Mrs. Smith nodded. "You''re right. I really do envy you and Mr. Etheridge."

    Effie fell silent, unsure how to respond. Anything she said would sound like bragging, especially when the other woman''s marriage was so unhappy. There was no need to rub salt in the wound.

    Besides, she and Lyman had rushed into marriage. Who knew what the future would hold?

    Maybe, eventually, she''d be the one being pitied.

    She''d always told herself to guard her heart, not to give it away too easily.

    In a strange way, Mrs. Smith''s confession was a warning she couldn''t ignore.

 Chapter 141

    Effie smiled, letting the conversation drop.

    Her gaze drifted toward Lyman and Mr. Smith.

    Lyman stood out effortlessly¡ªa man who drew the eye wherever he went. Amid the crowd, he looked striking in his crisp white golf shirt, posture straight and confident. There was a natural grace to his every movement, a quiet authority that seemed both refined and unapproachable.

    Beside him, Mr. Smith wore a practiced, worldly smile, the kind that suggested he''d seen every side of a deal.

    As they talked, Lyman''s expression remainedposed and aloof, nodding asionally but always keeping a certain distance, as if he existed in a world just out of reach.

    Effie looked away, a knot of conflicted emotions tightening inside her.

    Their marriage had always been a transaction-an arrangement where each got what they needed. Lyman required her presence to keep his family satisfied, while she needed his influence for protection and security.

    Had she agreed out of a sense of defiance, too? Maybe.

    But over time, Lyman''s quiet warmth, his thoughtfulness and unwavering respect, had started to wear down her resolve. He made it hard to remember why she''d kept her guard up in the first ce.

    Then Mrs. Smith''s words cut through her thoughts like a bucket of cold water, a reminder of the harsh truths behind marriages like theirs.

    "Mrs. Etheridge, are you alright?" Mrs. Smith''s gentle voice pulled her back.

    Effie blinked, then offered a soft smile. "Sorry, I drifted off for a moment."

    Mrs. Smith gave her a knowing look. "Ah, to be young-you still have endless possibilities ahead. I, on the other hand, feel like this marriage has trapped me for good."

    Effie nced at her, her voice gentle. "It''s never toote to choose yourself. There''s always a way."

    Mrs. Smith''s smile turned wistful. "If only it were that easy. There''s too much at stake¡ªchildren, family, reputation..." She shook her head. "But enough about that. No point in dampening the mood. Looks like they''ve finished up over there. I hope the contract negotiations go smoothly."

    Effie gave a modestugh. "Honestly, I don''t understand much about business."

    A sh of shrewdness appeared in Mrs. Smith''s eyes. "Mr. Etheridge really dotes on you. He won''t even let you worry about these things."

    Effie smiled but said nothing.

    Just then, Lyman started toward them, his gaze softening when it settled on Effie. There was a focus in his eyes, a quiet tenderness he reserved only for her.

    "All done talking?" he asked in a low voice.

    Effie nodded. "Yes, I was just about toe find you."

    Lyman inclined his head politely to Mrs. Smith. "Excuse us, Mrs. Smith."

    Mrs. Smith quickly returned his smile. "Of course, Mr. Etheridge. Don''t mind me."

    It seemed the negotiations wereing to a close.

    Lyman took Effie''s hand with an easy familiarity, leading her away for a stroll.

    The grounds here were lovely-a rare chance to rx.

    "Tired?" Lyman asked quietly, his thumb gently tracing circles on the back of her hand.

    Effie shook her head. "I''m fine."

    "Good. Let''s walk a little then."

    As they wandered off, Mrs. Smith''s expression dimmed.

    She turned to see Mr. Smith, who was also watching Lyman and Effie''s retreating figures, a thoughtful look on his face.

    Mrs. Smith let out a dry chuckle, then said, "If you''re thinking of anything reckless,

    I''d suggest you stop right now. Mr. and Mrs. Etheridge have a strong rtionship.

    If Mr. Etheridge catches wind of you coveting his wife, you can kiss this partnership goodbye."

    Her tone was pointed.

    Mr. Smith snorted, clearly annoyed. "I don''t need your warnings. Just mind your own business. Stay out of mine."

    He was frustrated, his irritation betraying that she''d hit a nerve.

    After all, wealth had always brought him whatever women he wanted. Actresses, dancers-they''d alle to him, hoping he''d give them a leg up, make them famous.

    But Mr. Smith had a cruel streak. The easier something came to him, the less he valued it.

    Still, he knew the boundaries. As beautiful as Effie was, she was Lyman''s wife- and the wife of a key business partner.

    Even he had to be cautious.

 Chapter 142

    But the moment Mr. Smith pictured Effie''s porcin skin, her graceful figure, and above all, the faint, intoxicating scent that seemed to linger around her, he felt his heart stir with longing.

    Desire crawled beneath his skin, itching like a swarm of ants, impossible to ignore.

    He nced over at Mrs. Smith, sitting quietly beside him. She was only in her thirties, but herplexion looked dull and tired, makeup barely masking the exhaustion etched into her features. Her clothes were in, her style uninspired¡ª nothing about her caught his interest anymore.

    The more he looked, the more resentful he became. It was maddening, the way life turned out when youpared yourself to others.

    What on earth had he been thinking, marrying such a dreary woman?

    Mrs. Smith had grown ustomed to his constant criticism and belittling. Her expression remained unchanged, as if she hadn''t heard a word.

    If he refused to listen to reason, then he could face the consequences. People who overstepped their bounds deserved whatever punishment came to them.

    A sh of malice flickered beneath Mrs. Smith''s loweredshes.

    ...

    Restless and flushed, Mr. Smith suddenly remembered an old acquaintance he hadn''t seen in years.

    He picked up his phone and dialed her number.

    Isabel was in the middle of dance rehearsal when the call came through, and the sight of Mr. Smith''s name on her screen made her heart skip in rm.

    Damn it, why would he call me now?

    Mr. Smith was a reminder of her past she''d rather forget-a chapter she had no desire to revisit.

    Back when she was just breaking into the industry, Isabel had done what she had to in order to get noticed. Mr. Smith had taken a liking to her, and thanks to his influence, her career took off quickly. But that favor came at a price, leaving plenty of leverage in his hands.

    Now that Isabel had be a renowned dancer and A-list celebrity, she wanted nothing more than to sever all ties with him.

    On the other end of the line, Mr. Smith''s voice oozed with sleazy charm. "Isabel, long time no see. What have you been up totely? I''m in town on business-why don''t we get together?"

    Suppressing her distaste, Isabel forced a polite tone. "Mr. Smith, what a coincidence. You''re here for business? Where are you staying?"

    Trying to steer the conversation elsewhere, she kept her voice light.

    He chuckled, the sound greasy and self-satisfied. "At the resort. I''m here meeting with Mr. Etheridge. We''ve almost wrapped things up, and you just popped into my mind. What''s the matter? Now that you''re a big star, are you too good for me?"

    Isabel''s heart skipped again. Mr. Etheridge?

    Could he mean Lyman?

    She knew Mr. Smith dealt with some major yers. If it was Lyman he was meeting, and if women came up in their talks, would Mr. Smith mention her?

    Isabel immediately changed her approach, her voice softening. "Mr. Smith, don''t be silly. I''d never look down on you. I do have an engagement tonight, by the way did you say you''re meeting Mr. Etheridge? Is that Lyman?"

    "That''s right, it''s him. He brought his wife along, too. Honestly, she''s quite the looker," Mr. Smith said, still sounding distracted by the memory.

    Isabel caught the implication at once. Inspiration struck. "Wait, Mr. Etheridge got married? I hadn''t heard are you sure she''s not just someone he hired to y the part?"

    "What? He''s not married?" Mr. Smith''s pulse quickened.

    Could it really be that the woman was just for show? But the way the two interacted didn''t seem fake at all.

    "Exactly. Have you heard about any wedding? If he really got married, with his family background, there would''ve been a huge celebration. No way would he keep it a secret," Isabel replied smoothly.

    "I see," Mr. Smith murmured, lost in thought.

    "Mr. Smith, I really do have a packed schedule today, but once I''m free, I''lle find you. I owe so much of my sess to you I''ll never forget that," Isabel purred sweetly.

    There was no way she''d actually show up, not with Lyman in the same ce. But she''d heard the undertones in Mr. Smith''s voice-he seemed rather taken with that Effie woman.

    All the better. Let''s see if Mr. Smith''s wandering eye is matched by his nerve.

 Chapter 143

    After Mr. Smith hung up the phone, a sharp glint flickered in his eyes.

    So, he''d been fooled too.

    If he hadn''t questioned Isabel, he never would have found out, would he?

    This made things much simpler.

    Around dusk, Lyman was called away to an emergency meeting by Luther at the office.

    Effie finished her dinner, took a short stroll, and was just about to head back when Mr. Smith appeared behind her without a sound or warning.

    A strong whiff of alcohol hit her, making her jump. When she saw it was Mr. Smith, she immediately tensed.

    "Mr. Smith, what are you doing here?"

    He deliberately lowered his voice. "Just happened to be passing by. Imagine my luck, running into you, Miss Bagnold."

    Miss Bagnold?

    Effie frowned. "Mr. Smith, my husband just stepped away to grab something. He''ll be back soon. Are you looking for him?"

    "Let''s cut the act, Miss Bagnold. You and Mr. Etheridge aren''t really married, are you? Tell me, how much is he paying to keep you? Whatever it is, I''ll double it."

    He wasn''t hiding anything this time. His eyes narrowed, roaming over her with greedy intent.

    Mr. Smith could hardly contain himself. The contract was about to be signed-this woman would have no more use for Lyman. Then it would be his turn to enjoy her.

    Effie''s expression turned icy. "Mr. Smith, I''d ask you to show some respect. Lyman and I are legally married. What you''re suggesting is outright nder.¡±

    Has the man lost his mind?

    Absolutely outrageous.

    "I''m just being honest here. I''m always generous with women-actresses, models, principal dancers-I''ve taken care of them all, and they were more than satisfied," Mr. Smith boasted, puffing up with pride.

    Effie felt sick to her stomach. Utterly shameless.

    Seeing her disbelief, he pressed on, "I''m telling the truth. You know the hottest star right now, Isabel? When she first started out, she was with me for a few months."

    Effie froze, her mouth dropping open in shock.

    Could it be the Isabel she knew?

    But there was only one Isabel, the dancer and the celebrity. It was almost impossible to believe.

    "Mr. Smith, nder cannd you in court. You really shouldn''t say things like that,¡± Effie replied coolly.

    She never expected to hear such gossip. She''d always thought Isabel was practically a saint.

    "I''m not making this up. I''ve had plenty of women. Stick with me, and you''ll live in luxury," Mr. Smith bragged.

    "Mr. Smith, I''ll say it one more time-I''m married. What you''re doing is sexual harassment. If you don''t stop, I''ll call the police," Effie warned.

    "Drop the act. Once the contract''s signed tomorrow, you two are done. Don''t think

    I don''t know. While I''m still interested, you''d better not waste your chance," Mr. Smith said, his smile turning sleazy.

    She''d once thought he was a gentleman-turns out, he was a wolf in sheep''s clothing.

    Effie didn''t bother replying. She turned to leave.

    But Mr. Smith quickly stepped in front of her, blocking her path.

    Her heart skipped a beat, and she scowled. "Mr. Smith, if you keep this up, I''ll call for help. If Lyman finds out what you''re doing, do you really think you two will still be working together?"

    She mustered her courage and stood her ground.

    Mr. Smith justughed. "Miss Bagnold, you think too highly of yourself. You''re just

    Mr. Etheridge''s ything. Why would he risk a billion-dor deal for you?"

    His tone dripped with contempt.

    Effie knew she was bluffing-Lyman would never throw away such a massive contract because of her.

    But hearing Mr. Smith say it out loud chilled her to the bone.

 Chapter 144

    What should she do?

    It was already dusk, and the sky had turned dark. Not a soul was around.

    Even if she screamed, no one would hear her.

    Lyman wouldn''t be back so soon, either.

    Clearly, she was on her own.

    Effie kept her face cold and spoke in a steady voice. "Mr. Smith, I''m warning you to think carefully. I''m not lying to you-we really are married. You know what kind of man Lyman is. Unless you''re prepared to face his wrath, I suggest you walk away."

    She was stalling for time, silently praying-Lyman, pleasee back soon!

    But Mr. Smith seemedpletely unfazed. He smiled, then reached out, trying to pull Effie into his arms.

    Effie had been ready for this. She struggled with all her strength, then lifted her foot and drove it mercilessly into his groin.

    "Aaah!" Mr. Smith let out a piercing, almost inhuman scream, doubling over and clutching himself. All the color drained from his face.

    Effie took the chance to stumble back a few steps, her eyes zing. "Take one more step, Mr. Smith, and I swear I''ll make sure you''re never a man again!"

    Sweat broke out on Mr. Smith''s brow as he red at her, pain twisting his features. ¡°You little witch! How dare you kick me?!"

    He staggered upright, rage zing in his eyes, and lunged to grab her hair.

    Effie twisted away, but her heel caught on the pavement. She lost her bnce and fell backward.

    She squeezed her eyes shut, bracing for impact¡ª

    ¡ªbut instead, a pair of strong arms caught her, steady and sure.

    Almost instantly, she was enveloped by a familiar scent.

    Effie''s eyes flew open-and there he was. Lyman, his gaze dark as midnight, stared down at her.

    ¡°Lyman!¡± she gasped, her voice trembling with relief and something softer she didn''t even recognize herself.

    Oh, thank God. He was really here.

    A rush of gratitude flooded her chest.

    Her prayers had been answered.

    Lyman set her on her feet, then turned a cial stare on Mr. Smith. His voice was dangerously low. "Mr. Smith, you must have a death wish."

    Damn it. How could he not have realized this snake was after his wife?

    He''d practically let a wolf into his own house.

    Disaster had been inches away.

    The sight he''d just walked in on made Lyman want to kill someone.

    Thank God he''d ended his meeting early. He couldn''t even imagine what might have happened otherwise.

    As soon as Mr. Smith saw Lyman, all the bravado drained from his face, leaving him deathly pale. ¡°Mr... Mr. Etheridge, this¡ªit''s all a misunderstanding..."

    "A misunderstanding?" Lyman''sugh was cold and sharp. He released Effie and stalked toward Mr. Smith, step by deliberate step. "You put your hands on my wife, and you call that a misunderstanding?"

    Mr. Smith backed away in a panic, sweat pouring down his face. "I''m sorry! I was drunk, I wasn''t thinking-please..."

    How could this be happening? Wasn''t Lyman supposed to be unmarried? Why was he calling this woman his wife? Damn it, had Isabel set him up?

    "Being drunk isn''t an excuse." Lyman grabbed Mr. Smith by the cor, his eyes like knives. "If you can''t control yourself, maybe you don''t deserve to keep your hands at all."

    No sooner had he spoken than Lyman drove his fist into Mr. Smith''s face, sending him crashing to the ground.

    Mr. Smith howled, clutching his nose as blood spilled between his fingers. "Please, Mr. Etheridge! I swear, I''ll never do it again!"

    He was stone-cold sober now.

    Lyman looked down at him, icy and unyielding. "Luther, take him to the police station. And while you''re at it, let''s make sure the authorities hear about all the other dirty things he''s been up to over the years."

    Know your enemy, win every battle.

    Lyman had plenty of dirt on Mr. Smith. The man had a history-including keeping underage girls.

    Luther stepped forward without a word, dragging Mr. Smith away as easily as hauling out the trash.

 Chapter 145

    Effie stood to the side, watching Lyman''s back. Her heart pounded so hard it might burst, a strange, indescribable feeling welling up inside her.

    She had never seen this side of Lyman before-furious and ruthless, yet somehow, it made her feel safe.

    Yes, that was it. He made her feelpletely, utterly safe.

    Lyman turned to face her then, the ferocity in his eyes vanishing in an instant, reced by deep concern. "Are you alright? Has something like this happened before? Why didn''t you tell me?"

    Effie shook her head, but felt her eyes begin to sting. "I''m fine... Thank you for getting here in time."

    She still felt shaken; her heart hadn''t quite settled down.

    Mr. Smith really was out of his mind.

    Lyman reached out and touched her cheek gently, his voice softening. "I promise, this will never happen again."

    Effie looked up at him, and for a moment, the man standing before her seemed more reliable than anyone she''d ever known.

    She pressed her lips together, hesitated, then asked quietly, "What about the partnership...?"

    Lyman raised an eyebrow. "What about it?"

    She lowered her voice. "That''s a billion-dor deal..."

    Lyman gave a short, dismissiveugh. ¡°A billion dors isn''t worth risking my wife. You matter more to me than any contract."

    A rush of warmth flooded Effie''s chest. She couldn''t quite put the feeling into words.

    Lyman caught the dazed look on her face and couldn''t resist giving her cheek a gentle pinch. "What''s gotten into you?"

    Snapping out of her trance, Effie suddenly threw her arms around his waist, hugging him tightly. "Thank you, Lyman."

    For the first time, she felt truly safe.

    Lyman stiffened in surprise, then rxed, wrapping his arms gently around her. "You silly thing. Taking care of you is my job."

    Just then, Mrs. Smith hurried over.

    She stopped short at the scene before her, then quickly came forward, her face flushed with apology. "Mrs. Etheridge, I am so sorry! I should have kept that animal on a tighter leash."

    Mrs. Smith''s apology tumbled out in a rush. She never expected Rankin to go so far, to do something so vile and reckless.

    Watching as Rankin was dragged away, and recalling her earlier conversation with Effie, something inside Mrs. Smith seemed to click into ce. She was done living like this.

    Effie lifted her head from Lyman''s chest and looked at Mrs. Smith in surprise. Despite her immacte makeup, Mrs. Smith couldn''t hide the weariness at the corners of her eyes. She clutched a folder tightly in her hand.

    "Mrs. Smith, this isn''t your fault..." Effie said softly.

    "No, I have a responsibility." Mrs. Smith gave a bitter smile and handed the folder to Lyman. "Mr. Etheridge, these are the records I''ve collected over the years-tax evasion, bribery, and... other things best left unspoken."

    Effie was stunned-she hadn''t imagined Mrs. Smith had gathered so much evidence.

    Clearly, Mrs. Smith had been preparing for this day for a long time.

    People really weren''t always what they seemed.

    Up until now, Mrs. Smith had always struck Effie as gentle, even a little timid, especially when Mr. Smith berated her. She always endured it quietly, never talking back.

    Who would have guessed she''d been working behind the scenes all along?

    Lyman epted the folder, his gaze thoughtful. "Mrs. Smith, what''s this for?"

    "I''m divorcing him," she said resolutely. "I hope this evidence helps you. As for the partnership..."

    She hesitated, then added, "My father is actually the chairman of Luminara Corporation. Ourpany can take over the project."

    Effie''s eyes widened in astonishment.

    Who would have thought that the unassuming Mrs. Smith would have such a powerful background?

    Lyman nodded slightly. "Luminara is a much stronger partner, and we''ve been interested in working with you. If that''s possible, all the better. Still, my biggest concern is..."

 Chapter 146

    He turned to Effie, his gaze gentle. "Did that scare you? Do you want to go home and rest for a bit?"

    Effie shook her head, feeling a wave of warmth spread through her chest.

    She turned to Mrs. Smith. "What will you do next?"

    They had some history together, and truth be told, Effie quite liked Mrs. Smith.

    Mrs. Smith smiled, her expression finally at ease. "If I can help Luminara Corporation secure this deal, I''m nning to take my child back to my hometown and start over."

    Her father had mentioned this coboration before¡ªit was a lucrative opportunity, one everyone was after.

    If she could secure it, the path back home would be much smoother.

    Her father had always doted on her; she was sure life would look up from here.

    Mrs. Smith paused, then added, "Honestly, I have both of you to thank for helping me make up my mind to end this marriage."

    For the longest time, Mrs. Smith had hesitated, torn between old ties and new beginnings, and so she''d put up with far too much.

    Lyman slipped an arm around Effie''s shoulders and addressed Mrs. Smith, ¡°Alright, I''ll have Luther assist you, Mrs. Smith, until the divorce is finalized."

    "Thank you both. Next time you see me, just call me Rhea," Mrs. Smith said, relief clear in her voice.

    Effie nodded.

    She was genuinely happy for Mrs. Smith-she was still young, with her whole future ahead of her.

    Soon after, Mrs. Smith contacted her father and brought him up to speed.

    Without hesitation, he sent someone to pick her up.

    He even came himself to discuss the coboration with Lyman, making his sincerity unmistakable.

    Lyman looked over the details and realized that, indeed, Luminara Corporation was the best fit.

    It seemed fate had worked things out for the better.

    The partnership proceeded smoothly.

    Effie''s guilt finally eased a bit.

    If things had fallen apart because of her, she''d never have forgiven herself.

    After all, this deal was crucial for the Etheridge Group as well.

    With everything settled, they headed home.

    The next day, Effie returned to work as usual.

    She had barely sat down when Nelly walked over.

    There was a sly look on Nelly''s face as she said, "Designer Bagnold, where did you disappear to over the weekend?"

    Effie nced at her coolly, already guessing that Nelly wasn''t here for anything good.

    They''d worked together long enough for Effie to know Nelly''s type.

    "Is something the matter, Nelly? Where I spent my weekend doesn''t really concern work, does it?" Her tone made it clear she didn''t want to discuss her private life.

    Effie had no intention of feeding Nelly''s appetite for gossip.

    But Nelly, as if she''d expected that response, replied smoothly, "Of course, just curious. Maybe my eyes were ying tricks on me, but I thought I saw you at thekeside resort outside the city."

    She hadn''t expected to run into Effie there, and to her utter shock, she''d also spotted Mr. Etheridge. The two of them looked like they were vacationing together. Nelly nearly did a double-take.

    All weekend she''d been turning it over in her mind, convinced she''d stumbled onto Effie''s secret.

    And underneath it all, Nelly was seething with jealousy. After all, Mr. Etheridge was thepany''s golden boy-charming, sessful, untouchable.

    Back when she''d first joined the Etheridge Group, she''d seen Lyman at thepany''s anniversary g, and she''d fallen for him instantly.

    Nelly had tried everything to get close to Lyman, but every attempt had ended in failure.

    She''d even begun to suspect Lyman just wasn''t interested in women¡ªor maybe he was hiding something.

    But now, to see Effie with him? The sight made Nelly both furious and resentful. If she couldn''t have him, then Effie shouldn''t, either.

 Chapter 147

    No wonder someone as unremarkable as Effie managed tond a designer position at The Etheridge Group¡ªit turns out she''s gotten close to Mr. Etheridge himself.

    Nelly was determined to expose this, to let everyone see Effie for who she truly

    was.

    But she wasn''t entirely sure yet. That''s why she needed to test the waters first.

    Effie''s pen paused for an instant in her hand, but she quickly regained herposure.

    She looked up, offering Nelly a polite yet distant smile. "You must be mistaken, Nelly. I spent the whole weekend at home."

    Nelly gave a loaded "Oh?" and scrolled through her phone, pulling up a photo. "So, this isn''t you then?"

    The image was unmistakable-Effie and Lyman dining together at a resort restaurant.

    It was just a side profile, but anyone who knew Effie could recognize her in a heartbeat.

    Effie''s heart skipped a beat, but she kept her expression calm. "Nelly, isn''t it a bit inappropriate to sneak photos of people?"

    Effie was genuinely annoyed; she hated the feeling of being watched.

    She wasn''t flustered, though. After all, she and Lyman were married.

    If people found out, so be it.

    Clearly, Nelly didn''t know the truth. Did she really think there was something scandalous going on?

    "I just happened to run into you, that''s all," Nelly said smugly, waving her phone.

    "But the real coincidence is, I also saw you and Mr. Etheridge going into the same suite... Seems like there''s something special between you two, huh?"

    Around them, the other coworkers were suddenly all ears, pretending to work while eavesdropping.

    Oh my god, this was the juiciest gossip ever!

    Effie and Mr. Etheridge?

    Could it be true?

    Everyone was dying to know.

    Effie''s face turned icy. "Nelly, don''t you think you''re being a bit out of line? My private life is none of your business."

    Suddenly, it hit Nelly-if Effie really was involved with Mr. Etheridge, and she went running to him tonight, Nelly could end up in real trouble.

    She needed this job.

    In the end, Nelly forced a sheepish smile. "Sorry, I was just curious. Didn''t mean to bother you."

    There''s always another day. Sooner orter, the truth woulde out.

    Maybe Mr. Etheridge would dump Effie soon enough anyway.

    Hmph! Who does she think she is?

    With that, Nelly turned and left.

    Effie let out a quiet sigh of relief.

    She didn''t want this to blow up. If people found out who she really was, it would

    make staying at thepany unbearably awkward.

    She''d need to be more careful from now on.

    But she couldn''t help but wonder-what was Nelly even doing at the resort?

    That ce was expensive, far beyond what an average office worker could afford.

    Besides, most of the resort operated on a members-only basis. Only people with serious wealth could even get in.

    Nelly must have gone with someone else.

    Lately, Effie had heard some less-than-ttering rumors about Nelly. Honestly, it wasn''t hard to imagine.

    And now Nelly had the nerve to interrogate her?

    Effie just couldn''t be bothered.

    She wasn''t one to meddle in other people''s business, so once Nelly left, she didn''t say another word.

    The rest of the office, realizing the excitement was over for now, slowly drifted back to their own work.

    After work, Lyman had a business dinner with the Luminara Corporation, so Effie made ns to have dinner and do some shopping with Nita.

    The school reunion wasing up, and Effie wanted to pick out a new outfit.

    It wasn''t as if she didn''t have anything to wear-if anything, her closet was

    overflowing. Lyman had luxury boutiques send their newest collections straight to their door.

    Those dresses were gorgeous and expensive, meant for gs and high-profile events.

    But a ss reunion was different.

    Most of her ssmates lived on modest sries; the price of a single one of her dresses could be their entire annual ie.

 Chapter 148

    So Effie wanted to pick up a couple of affordable outfits.

    Nita was a manager now, and she cared more about her appearance than before. Still, maybe because of her upbringing, she''d buy a few quality pieces and save them for important asions.

    Most of the time, though, both of them dressed pretty modestly.

    They usually went for niche brands-unique designs, great fabrics, and reasonable prices.

    After work, the two of them waited at the entrance of the mall.

    Once they met up, they headed straight to a fondue restaurant-Nita had been craving it for ages.

    While they were enjoying dinner, Nita suddenly brought up the uing ss reunion.

    "Effie, we really need to make a statement at the reunion this time. I heard Sarah''sing too. You know how she''s always been jealous of you-constantly trying topete. We can''t let her show us up."

    Nita just couldn''t resist a little rivalry.

    Back in school, Sarah had always envied Effie for her looks and ster grades.

    She was forever runner-up, while Effie always came in first.

    So she tried to outdo Effie at every turn.

    And when she found out Effie was dating Mitchell, every encounter wasced with thinly-veiled sarcasm.

    To her credit, Sarah had done well for herself too; rumor had it her new boyfriend came from old money and spoiled her rotten.

    Who knows how she''ll unt it at the reunion this time?

    Especially now that Effie and Mitchell had broken up-bad news always travels fast.

    Most of their ssmates had probably already heard.

    Nita was curious to see how everyone would react.

    She wondered what they''d say if they found out Effie''s husband was Lyman.

    The thought alone made her grin.

    But Nita knew Effie wasn''t one to unt her private life, especially since her marriage to Lyman was still under wraps.

    Well, they''d just have to wait and see.

    If people got out of line, Nita wouldn''t mind spilling the beans.

    Effie took a bite of tripe and gave Nita a helpless smile. "Nita, you know I''m not interested in ying those games. If Sarah wants to show off, let her. We''ll just enjoy our meal."

    Nita rolled her eyes. "That won''t do! You have no idea-she''s always posting pictures of her bags and jewelry in the group chat, and she keeps hinting you got dumped by Mitchell because you weren''t good enough. I''ve been itching to put her in her ce!"

    Effie shook her head and ced a piece of tender beef on Nita''s te. "Let her say what she wants. I''m happy with my life now, and that''s what matters."

    "At least let me help you find a decent dress?" Nita''s eyes lit up. ¡°There''s a boutique on the third floor-Europeanbel, great design, not too pricey. It would look amazing on you!"

    After dinner, they headed straight upstairs.

    Nita''s pick was a small French boutique, all understated elegance and refined cuts.

    Effie tried on a beige silk dress, the unique waist detail entuating her figure perfectly.

    Nita pped her hands in delight. "That''s the one! Quiet luxury, tons of style. Sarah''s shy outfits can''t hold a candle to this!"

    Just as Effie was about to pay, a shrill voice rang out behind them. "Well, isn''t this

    a coincidence! Fancy seeing you here, sis!"

    They turned around to find Mitchell, sharply dressed in a suit, standing at the entrance with Suzan by his side.

    Great.

    Should''ve checked her horoscope before heading out-what a way to ruin a shopping trip.

    Suzan eyed the dress in Effie''s hands and let out a derisive littleugh. "Buying sale racks now, are we? I remember you used to only wear designerbels."

 Chapter 149

    Back when Effie wore all those designer outfits, Mitchell had been the one buying them-he liked that sort of thing.

    Mitchell always had impable taste.

    So, to please him, Effie wore whatever he preferred.

    But in the end, did it really matter? If a man''s heart changed, there was nothing you could do to stop it.

    Suzan, catching Effie''s silence, made a show of dangling her Cartier bracelet. "My boyfriend always says women deserve the very best."

    Mitchell''s eyes flickered with aplicated emotion when he looked at Effie''s delicate features.

    "Effie..."

    She nced at him coolly, a hint of disdain tugging at her lips.

    Mitchell frowned, his pride pricked.

    Wasn''t she supposed to be marrying Lyman now? So why was she here, shopping for discounted dresses? Maybe Lyman wasn''t treating her as well as everyone thought. Maybe Effie woulde to regret it soon enough.

    Nita was about to snap back, but Effie gently tugged her arm and smiled calmly at Suzan. ¡°What suits you is what''s best. I happen to love this dress."

    Suzan looped her arm through Mitchell''s theatrically. "Darling, I''ve had my eye on that limited edition gown for ages. Today, I absolutely have to get it~"

    The sales associate stepped over, looking flustered. "Miss Bagnold, that gown requires an advance appointment..."

    Suzan raised her voice, "Do you know who my boyfriend is? He''s the heir to the Lloyd Group! Get your manager over here!"

    Effie had no interest in being part of this circus. She took Nita''s hand and headed to the register.

    The moment they stepped outside, Nita exploded. "I can''t believe her! That tacky show-off! Effie, why''d you stop me? I was ready to put her in her ce."

    Effie was about to reply when her phone buzzed.

    A message from Lyman: *Done with dinner. Where are you? I''lle pick you up.*

    She texted him the mall''s address and turned to Nita. "Lyman''s on his way. Let''s wait in the caf¨¦ downstairs."

    "I don''t want to third-wheel you two! I''ll walk you down and then head off for a facialtely I look so tired, don''t I?" Nita fretted.

    She was clearly taking this school reunion seriously.

    "You look great,¡± Effie reassured her.

    "I have to look my best. Granger Morgan will be there, remember him? He was our ss heartthrob," Nita added with a conspiratorial grin.

    Granger had been the talk of the campus before he went abroad. He was every

    girl''s dream back then-and apparently, he''d be at the reunion too.

    Effieughed. "Of course I remember. Go get your beauty treatment."

    "Easy for you to say. Some of us are still single and suffering!" Nita sighed dramatically.

    Before long, Lyman arrived.

    Nita waved at him. "Mr. Etheridge,e collect your wife! I''ve got to get gorgeous for my own Prince Charming."

    Lyman actually smiled, then held the car door open for Effie like a true gentleman. "Miss Nita, best of luck tonight."

    As Nita strode off, Effie slid into the car and couldn''t help butugh. "Nita hasn''t changed a bit. Back in college, she had the biggest crush on Granger. Who''d have thought she''d still be hung up on him after all these years?"

    Lyman started the engine, then asked casually, "Oh? What about you, Mrs. Etheridge? Any secret crushes back in college?"

    Effie paused, then grinned. "What''s this, Mr. Etheridge-are you jealous of ancient history?"

    She teased him, "Let me think... There were a few handsome guys, now that you mention it..."

    Before she could finish, Lyman suddenly pulled the car over, unbuckled his seatbelt, and leaned in, trapping her between the seat and his arms. ¡°Oh? Tell me more..."

 Chapter 150

    His deep, mesmerizing eyes were just inches from hers, and the warmth of his breath brushed softly across her cheek.

    Effie''s heart skipped a beat, her face flushing hot. "I... I was only joking..."

    Lyman let out a low chuckle and brushed her lips with a gentle kiss. "Mrs. Etheridge, you''d better remember-"

    His voice grew quiet,ced with a dangerous edge. "From now on, there''s only room in your heart for me."

    Effie, her cheeks still burning, pushed him away. "Come on, just drive already!" Honestly, he could be so childish sometimes!

    The reunion was set to begin.

    Magee, their ss president back in university, had arranged for everyone to meet for dinner at a five-star hotel.

    Their ss had always been filled with high achievers; many had gone on to impressive careers, so a fancy venue seemed only fitting.

    Effie and Nita arrived together, and only then did Effie realize the dinner was being held at a hotel owned by The Etheridge Group.

    She''d been here before-and if she recalled correctly, Lyman had a business engagement tonight at this very hotel as well.

    He''d mentioned it that morning before she left, but she hadn''t given it much thought.

    When Nita saw Effie''s outfit, she grinned and gave her a thumbs-up.

    No doubt about it-Effie was going to turn heads tonight.

    She wore the elegant beige dress she''d bought a few days ago. It was simple but refined, paired perfectly with a delicate silver ne that made her fair skin glow and enhanced her graceful poise.

    Her softly curled hair fell naturally over her shoulders, giving her an air of effortless charm-gentle, yet confident.

    Nita looped her arm through Effie''s and teased, "Effie, you look absolutely stunning tonight! I guarantee you''ll be the star of the show."

    There was no denying Effie''s poise. And ever since she got married, love had given her an even more captivating glow.

    Effie rolled her eyes at thepliment. "You''re such a tease."

    The two of them chatted andughed as they entered the grand hotel lobby, where a polite attendant stepped forward to greet them. "Which room will you be joining?"

    Effie nodded. "V6."

    "Right this way, please," the attendant replied with a friendly smile.

    She led them through the glittering hall, past sparkling chandeliers and polished marble, toward the private rooms in the back.

    Just then, a group of men in tailored suits entered from the main doors-Lyman at the head of the pack.

    He was dressed in a perfectly fitted ck suit, his usual stern expression softening ever so slightly when he caught sight of Effie.

    He raised an eyebrow, his gaze lingering on her for a moment, the faintest hint of a smile tugging at his lips.

    What a coincidence-so Effie was here for her ss reunion.

    Even better. On his own turf, nothing could go wrong.

    Lyman paused, then turned to Luther and gave instructions in a low voice. "Find out which room my wife''s in for her reunion. Have the kitchen send over some of our signature dishes, and make sure they get the freshest seafood tonight. Oh, and remember to take care of the bill."

    Luther, by now used to these requests, replied without missing a beat. "Of course, Mr. Etheridge."

    Internally, Luther couldn''t help but marvel-he really ought to stay on Mrs. Etheridge''s good side.

    Mr. Etheridge was definitely smitten.

    Lyman cast onest lingering nce in Effie''s direction before leading his team away.

    Effie and Nita, still chatting, made their way to the private room. When they pushed open the door, they were greeted by a lively scene-old ssmates clustered in small groups, catching up on life, the room buzzing with excitement. Magee, their old ss president, spotted them and hurried over. "Effie, Nita- finally! Two of our brightest stars! Come on in and grab a seat!"

    Effie smiled and greeted everyone, her eyes drifting briefly across the room as she took it all in.

 Chapter 151

    Suddenly, Effie caught sight of a familiar figure-Granger.

    He was dressed simply in a crisp white shirt and ck cks, still every bit the gentle, refined man she remembered. He stood with a few ssmates, speaking in low voices.

    As Effie nced his way, Granger happened to look over at her too.

    Their eyes met across the room.

    Effie offered him a polite, reserved smile before looking away.

    She didn''t notice the way Granger''s gaze lingered on her, deeper and more thoughtful than before.

    He watched her for a few seconds, only turning away when she did. Then, with a subtle, almost imperceptible smile at the corner of his lips, he took a sip from his ss.

    Sarah had noticed everything from the moment Effie walked in.

    Especially Granger''s lingering gaze-Sarah''s eyes shed with jealousy.

    After all these years, why was Effie still the center of attention?

    Effie was surrounded by a group of girls, chatting easily. She wore a simple dress, yet looked more radiant than anyone else in the room, no matter how carefully they''d put themselves together.

    Her face was fresh and natural, untouched by makeup, with a delicate beauty that stood out all the more when she smiled.

    Magee, ever the enthusiastic host, bustled around greeting ssmates and making sure everyone found a seat.

    Once everyone had settled, Sarah turned to Effie with a half-smile that didn''t reach her eyes. "Effie, you came by yourself? Where''s your boyfriend?"

    Effie gave her a cool nce, already sensing trouble. "Isn''t this a ss reunion? No one brought plus-ones."

    Sarah was momentarily at a loss for words, but then she pressed on, her tone dripping with false concern. "Right, but I heard you and Mr. Lloyd broke up? You''d been together for years, hadn''t you? What a shame."

    Effie almost rolled her eyes. So all that buildup was just to bring this up?

    Nita couldn''t help jumping in. "What''s so unfortunate about it? Effie deserves better, anyway. By the way, Sarah, I heard you''re seeing someone now. Why didn''t you bring him to meet us?"

    Nita smoothly shifted the conversation.

    She knew Effie didn''t want anyone to know about her marriage. It had been a whirlwind wedding, and with so much uncertainty, Effie preferred to keep things quiet.

    Before Sarah could reply, her friend Harriet snorted, "Did you think Sarah''s boyfriend is some kind of zoo animal? Here for everyone to gawk at? He''s actually an executive at The Etheridge Group, and from a very well-off family. Not everyone can say the same."

    Effie paused, surprised. What were the odds-an executive at The Etheridge Group?

    If he really was a senior manager there, that was impressive.

    No wonder Sarah was acting so smug. An executive at Etheridge was easily making six figures a year.

    Effie pressed her lips together. "Oh? An executive at The Etheridge Group? That is impressive."

    Sarah, mistaking Effie''s calm for envy, lifted her chin with pride. "Yes, he just got promoted. He''s heading up the entire marketing division now."

    Nita rolled her eyes. Was Sarah always this insufferable?

    Not that she could me her¡ªafter all, she had no idea Effie was actually married to the CEO of The Etheridge Group.

    Harriet, seeing their silence, became even more haughty. "Sarah''s boyfriend said he''d help her get a job at Etheridge too. Not like some people, who, after a breakup, can''t even find work."

    So that''s what they all thought-Effie was unemployed.

    They were always chatting up a storm in the group chat, but Effie kept a low profile.

    At this, Granger spoke up, his tone mild but clear. "Harriet, we''re all ssmates here. There''s no need for that kind of talk."

 Chapter 152

    Harriet''s expression instantly soured at those words.

    Effie, that shameless flirt-of course she knew how to wrap men around her finger. And now even Granger was speaking up for her.

    An awkward tension settled over the private dining room.

    Magee, their ss president, hurried to break the silence. "Right, let''s not get worked up. Come on, everyone, let''s have a drink! Enough talking, let''s enjoy ourselves."

    Just then, the door swung open again.

    A group of servers entered.

    One of them carried an expensive-looking bottle of red wine, presenting it with a respectful nod. "Ladies and gentlemen, this is an ''82 Lafite. Please enjoy."

    Another server stepped forward. "Here we have fresh Australian lobster. Bon app¨¦tit."

    A third ced a steaming casserole on the table. "And this is our house specialty, a slow-braised delicacy..."

    The servers set down tter after tter ofvish food before making a graceful exit.

    For a moment, the room fell silent as everyone stared in disbelief.

    What on earth...?

    All eyes turned to Magee.

    He quickly shook his head. "No, I didn''t order any of this."

    After all, this was just a ss reunion-most of them working regr jobs. Who would splurge on food like this?

    Now everyone nced at Granger. After all, he was the son of the wealthy Morgan family; if anyone might have done it, it would be him.

    But Granger shook his head too. "I thought about ordering some things, but I hadn''t even called the server yet. And now all this is here?"

    Magee frowned, puzzled. How could this be? Did the servers bring the dishes to the wrong room? Maybe they belonged to the party next door?

    With that thought, Magee quickly called over a server to ask.

    The server smiled politely. "Sir, these dishes were indeed ordered for your room. They were specially requested by Mr. Etheridge''s assistant, and I should mention your bill has already been paid."

    No sooner had those words left his mouth than the whole room erupted in astonishment.

    Sarah was the first to react, her voice trembling with excitement. "Did you say Mr. Etheridge''s assistant? As in, Mr. Etheridge from The Etheridge Group?"

    The server nodded. "Yes, that''s ourpany''s Mr. Etheridge."

    Sarah all but beamed. "Then it must have been at Mr. Etheridge''s request!"

    Harriet echoed, equally surprised, ¡°Sarah, it must be because Mr. Etheridge knew you were here. After all, you''re dating his top assistant."

    That seemed to exin everything.

    Just then, Effie''s phone vibrated. She nced down to see a message from Lyman: "Mrs. Etheridge, are you having a good time? I''m next door for a business dinner."

    Effie hesitated, surprised by the coincidence. She typed back, testing the waters: "Did you order the food?"

    Lyman replied right away. "Yes, I asked Luther to take care of it and paid for everything. Have fun! If you want to check out the clubter, I can arrange it."

    Reading his words, Effie felt a sudden warmth bloom in her chest.

    So he''d been looking out for her all along.

    "No need. I''ll just go home after dinner and wait for you," she replied.

    Honestly, she could hardly wait to see him again.

    "I''lle pick you upter, then?" Lyman offered.

    He wanted her ssmates to know that they were already married.

    "We''ll see. Aren''t you busy with your business dinner? Focus on that first," Effie answered.

    "Alright." Sensing she wasn''t refusing him, Lyman couldn''t help but smile.

    Nita, watching from the side, said nothing.

    Did Sarah really think Mr. Etheridge ordered all this for her? The nerve!

    How ridiculous.

    But Nita kept quiet. When the truth finally came out, Sarah would get what wasing to her.

 Chapter 153

    Effie slipped her phone back into her purse, an involuntary smile tugging at the corners of her lips.

    She nced up at the crowd clustered around Sarah, who was soaking up the attention, her face glowing with smug satisfaction as their ssmates showered her with praise.

    "Sarah, your boyfriend is seriously impressive! Mr. Etheridge must really think the world of him!" Harriet gushed, her envy barely disguised.

    Sarah gave a modest littleugh, ying coy. "He''s just doing his job, really. But he''s got talent-otherwise, there''s no way he''d have gotten promoted at The Etheridge Group, considering howpetitive it is."

    Nita, who''d been biting her tongue, couldn''t help herself. She cleared her throat softly. "Um... is it possible Mr. Etheridge was actually here for someone else?"

    Harriet rolled her eyes, scoffing, "Oh,e on, Nita! Who else among us could possibly know Mr. Etheridge? Don''t tell me you mean Effie?"

    Her voice dripped with sarcasm.

    But Nita nodded emphatically, "Yeah, actually!"

    Harriet let out a short, mockingugh. "You must be dreaming."

    Effie quickly reached out to stop Nita, shaking her head in warning.

    Thest thing Effie wanted was to be the center of attention. If people found out about her connection to Lyman, she could kiss her peaceful life goodbye. She needed to stay under the radar.

    Nita swallowed her words, though the look on her face made it clear she wasn''t thrilled. One day, these people would be in for a rude awakening.

    Magee soon broke through the tension, rallying everyone with cheerful enthusiasm.

    After all, someone had brought delicious food-no one was going toin about that. And these treats were the kind they rarely got to indulge in.

    The mood quickly lightened as people paired off and drifted into casual conversations, swapping stories about their families and lives.

    Effie was quietly enjoying her meal when a ss slid into her field of vision. She looked up, startled to see Granger standing right in front of her. She scrambled to pick up her own ss.

    "Effie, it''s been ages. How have you been?" Granger''s eyes were gentle, his smile soft and warm.

    Effie raised her ss politely, clinking it lightly against his. "I''ve been well, thanks. How about you?"

    He took a sip of his wine, his gaze lingering on her. "Can''tin."

    Effie nudged Nita. ¡°Nita, you should toast Granger, too. It''s been a while since you two caught up, hasn''t it?"

    Honestly, Effie couldn''t believe she had to set this up for her. For all her bluster, Nita turned into a bundle of nerves around her crush.

    Nita finally picked up her ss, blushing. "Granger, cheers. I heard you''re a surgeon now at Neo-Arcadia Hospital. Congrattions on making your dreame true."

    Granger was the eldest son of the Morgan family, but now he was better known for saving lives as a surgeon.

    His reputation at Neo-Arcadia Hospital was ster-he''d be a star in his own right.

    Nita knew all about him¡ªafter all, she''d nursed a crush on him for quite some time.

    Effie was a little surprised herself. Back in freshman year, they''d been in the same ss, but then Granger had gone abroad. So he''d been off studying medicine all this time.

    But she shouldn''t have been surprised-Granger had always been brilliant, double-majoring even back then. Bing a doctor seemed like a natural fit. "Thanks," Granger replied, his tone sincere.

    Effie felt a wave of relief seeing Nita finally work up the courage to speak. She was about to make an excuse to slip away and give the two of them some time alone when Granger turned back to her.

    "Effie, are you still working in design?" he asked.

    She nodded. "Yeah, I''m still doing jewelry design."

    "That''s perfect, actually," Granger said, a smile lighting up his face. "My mom''s birthday ising up next month. Since you''re a designer, could you help me create a set of jewelry for her?"

    There was no way for Effie to turn down a request like that-after all, it was business, and they were old ssmates.

    She smiled back. "I''d be honored."

    Who knew? Maybe she''d even be able to y matchmaker for Nita in the process.

 Chapter 154

    "That''s wonderful. When you have some time, let''s set up a meeting to discuss the details," Granger said.

    The two of them quickly exchanged contact information.

    Effie shot Nita a yful wink, nudging her to seize the opportunity.

    Nita gave an awkward nod.

    She could see it clearly now-Granger liked Effie. That kind of look was impossible to fake.

    But Granger didn''t know Effie was married.

    It seemed his quiet crush was doomed from the start.

    The dinner partysted until around ten o''clock before Granger spoke up again. "Let me drive you home."

    "I... well..." Effie was about to decline. Lyman should be arriving any minute now.

    Just then, the private room door swung open, and a familiar figure appeared_ Lyman.

    With one hand in his pocket, dressed sharply in his tailored suit, he swept a cool gaze across the group before finally locking eyes with Effie. He walked over, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "I''vee to pick you up."

    The room fell instantly silent, every pair of eyes fixed on Lyman.

    Sarah was the first to react, jumping up with excitement. "Mr. Etheridge! What brings you here?"

    Lyman didn''t even spare her a nce. He strode straight to Effie and, with casual confidence, slipped an arm around her waist. "Did you enjoy the meal?"

    If he hadn''t shown up, who knew if his wife might have been swept away by someone else.

    Lyman had been keeping an eye on the evening''s happenings. The moment he learned someone was making moves on his wife, he wasted no timeing over.

    Effie''s ears turned pink as she nodded softly. "Mm-hmm."

    Nita giggled from the side, while Granger frowned, ncing back and forth between Lyman and Effie.

    Sarah, unwilling to give up, pressed on. "Mr. Etheridge, do you and Effie know each other?"

    Only then did Lyman give her a nce, his tone icy. "She''s my wife."

    Those three words set off a firestorm in the room.

    "His wife?!"

    "Effie is Mrs. Etheridge?!"

    "Oh my god, so those dishes earlier were because Effie ordered them?!"

    Sarah''s face drained of color; humiliation washed over her.

    Harriet was left speechless, stunned.

    Granger''s grip tightened around his ss, his knuckles turning white, but after a moment he forced a smile. "I see. Congrattions."

    Lyman met his gaze coolly, a trace of possessiveness in his eyes.

    Men could always read each other''s intentions in a heartbeat.

    He''d seen Granger chatting with Effie the whole time when he entered.

    Effie felt more embarrassed than ever. With everyone''s eyes glued to her, she tugged at Lyman''s sleeve. "Let''s go."

    Lyman nodded, took her hand, and gave the group a polite nod. "Enjoy the rest of your evening. The bill''s taken care of let''s do this again sometime."

    With that, he led Effie out of the room.

    Only when the two of them had disappeared did the room explode with chatter.

    "I can''t believe Effie married Mr. Etheridge!"

    "Seriously, she kept that so quiet!"

    "Effie''s so lucky-Mr. Etheridge is handsome, sessful, and rich. I''m so jealous!"

    "And to think Sarah assumed those dishes were ordered for her-turns out it was all for Effie!"

    Red-faced and mortified, Sarah snatched up her purse and rushed out of the

    room.

    She couldn''t stand to stay a moment longer.

    How could this happen?

    Damn it!

    It was all Effie''s fault-wasn''t she doing this on purpose?

    She was Mrs. Etheridge all along, but chose to keep it a secret, letting everyone make a fool of her.

    Unforgivable!

    As Sarah stormed out, Harriet hurried after her.

    Nita, in high spirits, leisurely sipped her wine and nced over at Granger. "You know, some people are just meant to belong to someone else."

    Granger gave a wry smile and knocked back the rest of his drink in one gulp.

 Chapter 155

    Effie let Lyman lead her out of the hotel, her hand tucked safely in his. The night air was cool, brushing against her skin and making her shiver. She couldn''t help but ask, ¡°Weren''t you in the middle of a business dinner? What are you doing here? Did you finish up already?"

    Lyman nced sideways at her, his eyes dark and fathomless. ¡°If I didn''te now, my wife might have been whisked away by someone else."

    Effie blinked in surprise, then couldn''t help butugh. "Are you actually jealous?" He didn''t hesitate. "Yeah. Jealous as hell."

    A warmth blossomed in her chest. Smiling, she slipped her arm through his. "Rx. No one could steal me away."

    He chuckled, lowering his head to murmur in her ear, voice teasing and low. "You''ll just have to prove that to me when we get home."

    Effie''s cheeks med. She gave him a gentle punch. "You''re impossible!"

    As soon as they stepped into the house, Lyman pulled her into a fierce embrace, holding her so tightly Effie could barely breathe.

    His voice was rough at her ear, his breath hot as it swept across her skin. Every inch of her broke out in goosebumps.

    "Mrs. Etheridge, now''s your chance to prove it. I''m waiting."

    Lyman hadn''t expected to feel such a surge of jealousy at the sight of that man. Suddenly, he was gripped by a sharp sense of insecurity. Just thinking about the way that guy looked at Effie made him want to lose his mind.

    "Let go of me first," Effie protested, her voice soft and sweet.

    He only tightened his hold. "Not until you tell me who was that man? One of your admirers?"

    "No, he''s just a ssmate," Effie exined, sighing at his stubbornness.

    Lyman buried his face in the crook of her neck, his voice muffled. "Mrs. Etheridge, I''ll believe whatever you say. Just don''t let me down."

    "I''m not lying, I swear." Effie was exasperated. Was this man always this jealous?

    Lyman finally loosened his grip, but kept his hands locked around her waist, refusing to let go entirely.

    He fixed her with a burning gaze. "Then why did he look at you like that? Was there ever something between you two...?"

    Effie let out a helpless sigh and cupped his face in her hands. "Mr. Etheridge, listen to me-Granger was just a friend from college, nothing more. And besides..." A sly glint shed in her eyes. "Nita has a crush on him. I was just helping her out."

    Lyman''s tense expression softened a fraction, but his tone was still a little petnt. "Doesn''t matter. I don''t want him getting that close to you again."

    Effie burst outughing. "Mr. Etheridge, is that an order?"

    Lyman''s eyes darkened. Without warning, he scooped her up into his arms. "No, it''s a request from your husband."

    Effie shrieked, instinctively wrapping her arms around his neck. "What are you doing? Put me down!"

    "Not a chance." Lyman strode toward the bedroom, his voice low and dangerous. "Didn''t you say you''d prove it to me?"

    Effie''s cheeks burned as she muttered under her breath, "You''re so ridiculously possessive."

    Heid her gently on the bed, leaning over her until their noses almost touched. "Only when ites to you."

    Then his lips crashed onto hers, and whatever protest she had died between their mouths.

    The night stretched on, Lyman making it clear in every possible way just how deep his jealousy ran...

    By morning, Effie was rubbing her sore back while shooting daggers at the very picture of contentment across from her. She grabbed a pillow and tossed it at him. "Lyman! You''re impossible!"

    He caught it with ease, grinning as he leaned over to steal a kiss. "Mrs. Etheridge, consider it punishment for being so irresistible."

    Her eyes widened in outrage. "I was not!"

    He nodded solemnly, though amusement danced in his eyes, his tone carrying a gentle warning. "You were. So from now on, you''d better behave-or I might just not let you out of bed at all."

 Chapter 156

    ¡°Ugh, you''re so annoying," Effie muttered, cheeks flushing as she spoke.

    A momentter, her stomach grumbled loudly.

    Lyman grinned. "I''ll make breakfast. Come out when it''s ready."

    "Okay."

    After breakfast, Effie headed to the office.

    Today she needed to visit the factory.

    The Etheridge Group owned its own jewelry workshop, and a client had recently ordered a custom set. Effie wanted to meet the craftsman in person to go over the details.

    Some of the techniques were tricky, but to achieve the perfect result, she had tomunicate every nuance, making sure the finished piece met the client''s expectations.

    Once the morning meeting was done, Effie set off for the factory.

    Originally, Shirley was supposed to join her, but the director had pulled her aside for something urgent at thest minute.

    So Effie went alone.

    The factory was out in the suburbs, which meant she had to drive herself. Honestly, she preferred it that way-less hassle getting backter.

    Effie grabbed her things and left without dy.

    Meanwhile, on the other side of town, Isabel was fuming. Ever since she''d been caught wearing a knockoff, people kept whispering and pointing at her wherever she went. It was infuriating.

    The moment she got home, Isabel stormed to her vanity, swept her collection of expensive cosmetics onto the floor, and let out a furious scream as ss shattered and bottles ttered everywhere.

    Carole rushed in, taking in the chaos. "My dear, what on earth happened?"

    Isabel, her voice tight with anger, snapped, ¡°Carole, I can''t stand this anymore. Everyone knows I wore a fake, everyone''sughing at me behind my back."

    Maybe she was being paranoid, but Isabel couldn''t shake the feeling that people were gossiping about her everywhere she went.

    It was suffocating.

    And it was all Effie''s fault. If it weren''t for her, Isabel would never have be everyone''s joke.

    "You''re overthinking it. Who would dare mock you? Besides, this is a minor scandal-it''ll blow over soon. Don''t worry, I''m here for you. I''ll help you sort this out."

    Isabel felt a little better, but resentment still simmered beneath the surface. "It just makes my blood boil, seeing that conniving witch Effie so smug. And now Lyman''s avoiding me, too."

    She swallowed hard, unable to let it go.

    "Don''t worry, Isabel. If we can''t deal with her openly, we''ll do it another way. The important thing is to get rid of Effie-once she''s gone, Mr. Etheridge wille back to you. You two have history; nothing wille between you." Carole''s tone was cool and confident.

    Isabel''s eyes lit up. "Carole, do you have something in mind?"

    "Of course. I''ve had someone keeping tabs on Effie for a while. If the right opportunityes along, we can take care of her-quietly, without anyone knowing." Carole''s smile turned sly. "And as it happens, today''s our chance."

    "Are you serious?" Isabel asked, hope flickering in her voice.

    "Absolutely. In fact, I came in to tell you the good news. Effie drove out alone for work this morning-she should be hitting the outskirts by now. Everything''s in ce," Carole replied, her eyes cold and calcting.

    She was always prepared. Isabel was her golden ticket-she couldn''t let anything happen to her.

    Effie was nothing, just an obstacle in Isabel''s way. And obstacles needed to be removed.

    Hearing this, Isabel''s gaze hardened as she stared at her reflection in the mirror, a triumphant smile curling on her lips. "Excellent, Carole. Very well done. I can''t wait to see that woman get what she deserves."

 Chapter 157

    Effie gripped the steering wheel, her knuckles white. She wasn''t used to city driving, so she took it slow, eyes darting from mirror to mirror as she navigated through the busy streets. Once she finally reached the outskirts, the traffic thinned, the world quieted, and she could breathe a little easier.

    She guided her car down the empty road toward the old factory. The silence was broken by a sudden, desperate sound from the roadside a voice, trembling and weak, calling out, "Help... Please, help..."

    Effie frowned, thinking she might be hearing things. But as she inched the car forward, her headlights swept across the edge of a small grove ahead, revealing two figures standing over someone sprawled on the ground-a girl.

    She eased her foot off the gas, instincts warring in her chest. Every rational thought told her to keep driving. She was alone, and those two looked like trouble -young men, barely out of their teens, but grown enough to overpower her. Still, the girl''s faint cries for help cut through her hesitation.

    Effie''s heart hammered in her chest as she scanned the empty road through her rearview mirror, then slowly pulled over to the curb. The girl''s voice was fading, her struggle growing weaker, while the two men yanked at her arms, trying to drag her further into the trees.

    Taking a shaky breath, Effie grabbed her phone and dialed emergency services. She kept her voice low but urgent. "Hello, I need the police. I''m just outside the city, near the industrial park-two men are attacking a girl by the woods. Please, send someone quickly."

    She hung up, biting her lip, staring at the grim scene ahead. The police would need time to get here, and that girl might not have that long.

    ncing into the back seat, Effie''s eyesnded on the warning triangle and the tire iron she kept for emergencies. She popped the trunk, grabbed the iron, and hid it behind her back, forcing herself to appear calm as she strode toward the trio.

    "Hey! What do you think you''re doing?" Effie called out, making her voice as loud andmanding as she could.

    Her heart raced, and she knew rushing in like this was reckless. She might not be able to save the girl-and she could end up hurt herself-but her conscience wouldn''t let her walk away.

    The two young men stared at her in surprise. The one with fiery red hair red and spat out, "Mind your business and get lost,dy!"

    The girl on the ground caught sight of Effie, a flicker of hope lighting in her eyes. "Please... help me..." she whimpered, voice barely above a whisper.

    Effie tightened her grip on the iron and steadied herself. "I''ve called the police. They''re on their way. If you let her go now, you might still get out of this."

    The red-haired punk sneered, "Yeah right. Cops won''t get out here for half an hour, if at all!"

    His friend, a skinny kid with a nose ring, hesitated, tugging at the other''s sleeve. "Maybe we should go, man... This isn''t worth it."

    But the redhead shoved him off and stalked toward Effie. "You want trouble too? Fine. I''ll give it to you!"

    Effie stepped back, raising the tire iron. "Don''te any closer! I mean it!"

    Just then, the distant wail of sirens split the night air.

    The red-haired boy froze, his face twisting in panic. He cursed under his breath, grabbed his friend, and the two bolted into the woods, vanishing between the trees.

 Chapter 158

    Effie finally let out a breath of relief and hurried over to the girl, helping her sit up. "Hey, are you alright? Are you hurt anywhere?"

    The girl''s cheeks were streaked with tears. Her voice trembled as she stammered, "Thank you... They tried to steal my bag. They-they wanted to hurt me... If you hadn''te, I don''t know what would''ve happened..."

    "It''s over now. The police are on their way," Effie said softly, trying to calm her down.

    The girl wiped her eyes, her voice barely above a whisper. "I just... I want to go home now."

    Effie gently patted her back. "You''re safe, I promise. The police will be here any minute and they''ll take care of everything. Do you think you can stand? If you want, you can rest in my car for a bit."

    The girl nodded. Effie helped her to her feet, but the girl''s legs were still shaking badly-she was clearly terrified.

    Supporting her carefully, Effie led her to the car and settled her into the back seat, then handed her a bottle of water.

    "What''s your name? And how did you end up here all alone?" Effie asked, her voice gentle.

    The girl sniffled, still choking back tears. "I''m Ynde... I live in a vige nearby. I was walking home from school, taking a shortcut, and those two guys... they jumped out of nowhere, tried to grab my backpack, and then..."

    Ynde couldn''t finish. Fresh tears spilled down her cheeks.

    Effie squeezed her hand. "Hey, you''re safe now. The police will handle it from here, I promise."

    Just then, two police cruisers pulled up with sirens shing. Officers spilled out, quickly approaching to assess the situation.

    Effie gave a brief ount of what had happened and pointed out the direction the attackers had run off.

    The officers immediately began searching the area, while a female officer came over to check on Ynde and take her statement.

    One of the older officers turned to Effie. "Thank goodness you called when you did. Things could''ve turned out much worse. But you really shouldn''t confront dangerous people alone-it''s risky. Next time, try to stay safe and call us first." Effie nodded. "I know. I didn''t think-it just happened so fast."

    He managed a small smile. ¡°You were very brave. But next time, you can watch from your car and wait for us."

    "I understand. I''ll be more careful," Effie promised.

    When everything was settled, Ynde looked up at Effie, her voice timid. "Would you... would you mind taking me home? My parents must be worried sick."

    Effie smiled reassuringly. "Of course. It''s on my way. I''m headed to the factory, so I''ll drop you off."

    Once the police confirmed the statements were done and there was nothing more for them to do, Effie led Ynde to her car, and they pulled away from the scene. Effie asked for Ynde''s address, then steered the car in that direction.

    Ynde, exhausted, soon drifted off to sleep in the back seat.

    Every now and then, Effie nced in the rearview mirror, checking on her. Seeing Ynde fast asleep, she eased up on the gas and drove a little slower.

    Ynde''s house wasn''t far-about half an hour away. If Effie kept going left from there, she''d reach the factory in another thirty minutes. Dropping Ynde off wouldn''t set her back.

    After about twenty minutes, Ynde was still sound asleep in the back.

    The road was getting narrower now, and thendscape was growing more and more remote. Effie''s brow furrowed as a prickle of unease crept in.

    Was Ynde''s house really out here?

    She nced around at the empty fields and woods. Not a single house in sight.

 Chapter 159

    Effie couldn''t shake the sense that something was off.

    A sudden suspicion shed through her mind.

    Where exactly did Ynde go to school?

    She''d been driving for ages now-if Ynde walked this distance every day, it simply didn''t add up. And as Effie nced at the empty roadside, she realized they hadn''t passed a single pedestrian¡ªjust a handful of cars, scattered here and there.

    So, had Ynde lied to her?

    But why would she bother? They weren''t family, barely even acquaintances. As far as Effie knew, this was the first time they''d ever met.

    What was Ynde''s angle? What could she possibly gain from this?

    Effie was still puzzling it over when, out of nowhere, a sudden rush of air came from behind.

    "Don''t move. Keep driving."

    A cold, sharp pressure pressed against the back of Effie''s neck¡ªa small knife!

    Her pupils narrowed in shock, fingers mping the steering wheel so tightly her knuckles turned white. Her heartbeat thundered in her chest, threatening to burst free.

    She forced herself to stay calm.

    In the rearview mirror, Ynde-who just moments before had dozed off, all innocence and warmth-was now wide awake, fixing Effie with a chilling, predatory smile. The transformation was soplete, she barely looked like the same girl.

    No wonder I fell for it, Effie thought grimly.

    But she had to keep her wits about her.

    "You''re sharper than I thought, aren''t you?" Ynde''s voice was still gentle, but now there was a sinister edge to it that made Effie''s skin crawl. "Unfortunately, you''re a bit toote."

    Effie forced down the panic rising in her throat. "Just now... those people¡ªare you working together?"

    How old was Ynde-sixteen, seventeen? Yet she held that knife without a hint of fear, steady as a rock. What could have pushed someone so young to pull a stunt like this?

    "Smart girl." Ynde tilted her head, tapping the t of the de lightly against Effie''s cheek. ¡°Those two idiots were hopeless-had to step in myself."

    Effie''s mind raced. This was a setup. A trap. They must have staged the whole thing just to lure her out here.

    Someone''s been watching me, waiting for the perfect moment. And now, out in the middle of nowhere, it would be all too easy for me to disappear.

    But who? Who would go to all this trouble?

    "What do you want? Money?" Effie tried to keep her voice steady. "I have cash, I can give it to you."

    "Money?" Ynde snorted. "We''ve already been paid. We''re professionals, you know."

    So someone had hired them.

    The de pressed harder against Effie''s skin, so close she barely dared to breathe. She knew if this went on, she wouldn''t get out alive. She had to act.

    "If you hurt me while I''m driving," she said quietly, ¡°the car could spin out of control. We''ll both go down together."

    As she spoke, Effie''s eyes darted to the door lock. If she braked suddenly, maybe she could create enough chaos to break free...

    "Don''t even think about it." Ynde seemed to read her mind, digging the de in just a little. ¡°Keep driving, or I''ll carve up your pretty face right now."

    Sweat trickled down Effie''s forehead. And then-

    Bang!

    The car jolted violently, as if it had struck something.

    Ynde, caught off guard, lurched forward; the tip of her knife nicked Effie''s neck, drawing blood.

    Now!

    Without hesitation, Effie yanked up the emergency brake.

    The tires locked up, the car skidded-wheels screaming-then flipped, mming into the guardrail. Metal screeched as the barrier snapped, and the car tumbled down the embankment,ing to a bone-jarring stop on the grassy verge below. The driver''s airbag exploded in front of Effie, cushioning the impact, but pain still shot through her body. She was hurt, but alive.

 Chapter 160

    She fought through the dizziness and the sting of scraped skin, staggering as she crawled out of the overturned car.

    The icy air hit her face, snapping her back to her senses.

    She fumbled for her phone, hands trembling, and dialed Lyman''s number.

    The moment the ident happened, it was Lyman''s face that shed through her mind.

    Effie was terrified she might die here, that she''d never get to see Lyman again.

    The call rang and rang with no answer.

    She bit her lip, panic rising, just as the line finally connected.

    Lyman''s deep, reassuring voice came through. "Effie?"

    "Honey, I... I nearly died just now..." Effie''sposure shattered the instant she heard his voice.

    The memory of those terrifying seconds sent a fresh wave of shivers down her spine.

    "What? What happened? Where are you?" Lyman was in the middle of a meeting, but at her words, he shot to his feet.

    "It''s a long story. I''m out by the highway, my car''s totaled. Can you send someone to help me?¡± Her voice wavered, fear catching up with her.

    She was worried Ynde''s aplices might be nearby. If they came at her all at once, she didn''t stand a chance.

    Better call for backup.

    "Don''t be scared. Text me your location. I''m on my way. Stay on the line," Lyman said, wishing he could sprout wings and fly to her side.

    He soothed Effie while striding out of the conference room with Luther close behind.

    The department heads exchanged uneasy nces, but no one dared ask a thing.

    They''d never seen Mr. Etheridge look so rattled before-whatever this was, it had to be serious.

    As soon as Effie hung up, she sent Lyman her location.

    Just hearing his voice had steadied her nerves; now she felt as if a weight had been lifted from her chest.

    Turning back to her wrecked car, a pang of grief twisted in her gut.

    She''d barely had that car for a year-and now, it waspletely destroyed.

    She nced at the back seat. Ynde was slumped over, blood trickling from a

    cut on her forehead-unconscious, by the look of it.

    Effie frowned, then pulled open the door and dragged Ynde out herself.

    It looked like the crash had knocked her out cold.

    Effie pinched the pressure point beneath Ynde''s nose, hard. Ynde groaned and blinked awake.

    When she saw Effie''s face, her expression twisted with disbelief. Of all people, she hadn''t expected Effie would be the one to save her.

    "Why would you help me? Aren''t you supposed to finish me off? After what I just did to you?" Ynde''s voice trembled with confusion.

    Effie shot her a cold look. "Taking a life means paying the price. Do you really think a person''s life is that cheap?"

    "I''m not you. I won''t turn into a monster for revenge."

    "So-who sent you?"

    Ynde hesitated, then turned away, refusing to answer.

    Effie gave a small, humorless smile. "Suit yourself. You can exin everything to the police. Attacking someone with a knife is a pretty serious offense."

    Ynde let out a strange, bitterugh. "What''s with the hero act? You think I''ll be grateful? Dream on. Looks like I''ve lost if you want to kill me, just do it."

    Effie didn''t bother arguing. "Kill you? What would be the point?¡±

    Ynde''s eyes narrowed, suspicion creeping in.

    Damn it, she thought. She''d figured Effie would be easy to deal with, but behind

    that angelic face was a mind sharp as a de.

 Chapter 161

    Effie realized Lyman would be arriving any minute, so she turned to Ynde and spoke. "When you threatened me with that knife earlier, where were you nning to take me? And once we got there, were you going to figure out how to torture me?"

    Ynde''s eyes widened in disbelief. She stared at Effie, thrown off bnce.

    Just moments ago, Ynde had thought Effie would be easy to control, someone she could manipte without effort. She hadn''t expected this woman to be so perceptive, to see through her every move.

    Now, Ynde was at a loss for words. Her job was simply to deliver Effie-she''d assumed it would all go smoothly, and they were already close to their destination. But Effie had seen right through her.

    Ynde had been pretending to doze off earlier, but the moment Effie nced back at her, Ynde sensed the suspicion. With no other choice, she''d had to make her move early.

    But she never expected Effie to remain so calm, or to fight back and injure her in return.

    Effie noticed Ynde staring off into space and gave a faint smile. "Since they told you to do this, you might as well go through with it."

    "What?" Ynde''s voice was sharp with rm. "What''s that supposed to mean?"

    She eyed Effie warily,pletely thrown by the sudden shift in attitude-Effie was now volunteering to go with her?

    Effie''s expression was cool and collected, lips curling into a faint, icy smile. "You were told to bring me to them, right? I''ll cooperate. Isn''t that what you want?"

    Ynde frowned, suspicion etched across her face. "What''s your angle? What are you really nning?"

    Effie turned her gaze to the distance, where a car was rapidly approaching-that would be Lyman. Her voice was soft but resolute, leaving no room for argument. ¡°I just want to see what they''re after, after putting so much effort into this trap." She wanted to know who was trying to frame her. And if they''d gone to such borate lengths, wouldn''t it be a waste not to y along?

    A chill ran down Ynde''s spine. She was starting to realize she''d seriously underestimated this woman.

    Ynde gritted her teeth, lowering her voice. "Aren''t you afraid I might actually hurt you?"

    Effie let out a short, coldugh, her gaze sharp as ss. "You couldn''t manage it before. You won''t get another chance now."

    Just as the words left her lips, the screech of brakes split the air. Lyman''s car came to a stop just yards away.

    The door flew open and Lyman strode over, his imposing figure radiating an icy intensity. He reached Effie in a few long strides, wrapping her in his arms, his voice trembling. "Are you alright? Did she hurt you?"

    Effie shook her head. "Rx, it''s nothing. Just a scratch."

    Lyman''s shoulders eased a little at her words. Then he turned his cold gaze on Ynde. "Is it her?"

    The chill in his voice made Ynde shudder involuntarily.

    Effie nodded calmly. "Yes, but she''s just following orders. I want to go with her-I need to find out who''s behind all this."

    Lyman''s brow furrowed, clear disapproval written on his face. "Let me handle the investigation. You shouldn''t put yourself in danger."

    Even if Effie hadn''t said a word, Lyman would have turned the city upside down to get to the bottom of it.

    "It''s fine. You''re here, aren''t you? I know you won''t let anything happen to me," Effie said, shing him a teasing smile.

    Lyman sighed, gently brushing a hand over her hair. "Alright. If this is what you want, I''ll stand by you-but you have to promise me you''ll be careful.¡±

    "I will. Don''t worry. I already have a n," Effie replied, her voice yful and mysterious.

    She turned to Ynde. "Lead the way. And message your people, exactly as I tell you..."

 Chapter 162

    Ynde had nearly copsed with fear the moment she firstid eyes on Lyman.

    The man''s presence was absolutely overwhelming.

    He was terrifying.

    When he looked her way, Ynde felt as if she''d been sliced to pieces by a thousand invisible des.

    Under that suffocating pressure, all she could do was nod meekly. "Okay."

    ...

    Two minutester, Ynde sent a quick text: "It''s done. I''m on my way to the old cabin with her. Be ready."

    As soon as Carole received the message, she rushed to share the good news with Isabel.

    Back at home, Isabel practically danced with glee when she heard.

    It worked!

    Finally.

    After Effie had made a fool out of her and left her to be mocked across the inte, Isabel knew she couldn''t let it go unpunished.

    Now, she could hardly wait to see Effie fall from grace. The very thought thrilled her.

    With a glint of malice in her eyes, Isabel snatched Carole''s phone and started typing out a message.

    Of course, the number she used was one Carole had paid to have set up-a burner. If anything went wrong, it couldn''t be traced back to them.

    Carole was always careful like that.

    "Everyone''s in ce. Bring a few guys along-preferably someone with a nasty infection. Make sure that bitch gets what she deserves, then rough her up real good."

    Isabel''s whole body buzzed with anticipation as she sent the message.

    Just imagining Effie''s fate sent a rush of excitement through her veins.

    The reply came quickly: "Fine, but if you want anything extra, it''ll cost you." They were squeezing her for more money.

    Isabel grimaced at the thought of shelling out even more cash, but there was no turning back now. As long as Effie got what wasing to her, it would all be worth it.

    She steeled herself and nodded at Carole, who transferred another $20,000 to their contact.

    Now it was just a matter of waiting.

    But barely two minutester, another message popped up: "You''d better get over here. I think we went too far-she''spletely out cold and hasn''te around. She might not make it."

    Isabel''s face tightened in rm as she snapped back, "What the hell is wrong with you?"

    The reply was immediate. "What do we do? Something''s not right. She''s turning blue and barely breathing. We''re not touching her until you get here."

    A wave of panic crashed over Isabel. Her knuckles turned white as she clutched the phone.

    She turned to Carole, her voice trembling. "What''s going on? I just wanted to ruin her, not kill her!"

    Carole''s nerves were shot too. She hurried over to read the messages. "Damn it ¡ªmaybe they were too rough? Should we go check it out?"

    Isabel hesitated, fear flickering in her eyes before a cold determination took over. "Yeah, let''s go. We can''t let those idiots screw everything up. For all we know, Effie''s just faking it."

    Without another word, Isabel threw on dark clothes and a face mask. She and Carole hurried out, catching a cab to the abandoned cabin on the edge of town.

    Ynde was waiting at the door when they arrived.

    As soon as she saw them, she spoke up. ¡°You''re here. The woman''s inside."

    Isabel shot her a look, noticing the bruises on Ynde''s face. "What happened to you?"

    Ynde scowled. "That woman''s slippery. She tried to run on the way here, so I had to fight her off. Things got a bit rough and, well, I might''ve given her a bit too much of the sedative. I was worried she''d try something again..."

 Chapter 163

    Isabel frowned slightly at the suggestion. "I''ll go in and see what''s going on. You keep watch outside."

    "Alright, but are you sure you want to go in alone?" Ynde asked, her voice tinged with concern.

    "She''s unconscious, isn''t she? I''ll just check on her. You stay out here and keep an eye on things. If anyone arrives, let them in right away, understand?" Isabel instructed firmly.

    "Got it," Ynde replied, bowing her head so her expression was hidden.

    Without another word, Isabel slipped inside the house.

    Carole, having dropped Isabel off, had already left to fetch a doctor they both knew someone discreet who could help if things got out of hand. After all, Isabel never intended for anyone to get seriously hurt.

    Ynde watched Isabel disappear inside, her face unreadable. With all the running around, dusk had already settled in. Isabel had been waiting for this hour; broad daylight would draw too much attention, and Effie might have slipped away if she''d tried this earlier. Now, with darkness falling, Effie was trapped-there was no way out.

    The thought of Effie clinging to Lyman made Isabel''s blood boil. If Effie was tainted, would Lyman still want her? Isabel snorted at the thought, pushing it aside as she stepped into the abandoned cottage.

    Inside, the shadows seemed imprable. She could barely see her own hand in front of her face. The floor was damp beneath her shoes, and the air was thick with the sour stench of rot and dust. Wrinkling her nose, Isabel covered her mouth and nose with her hand, her eyes darting around warily.

    What a mess. Ynde really was hopeless-who kidnaps someone and doesn''t even think to bring a shlight? The ce was pitch ck, not a single ray of light anywhere.

    A shudder ran through Isabel. She stopped, hesitating, nerves prickling up her spine. She was about to call out to Ynde to fetch a shlight when, suddenly, the door mmed shut behind her with a resounding bang.

    Panic red in her chest. Did the wind blow it shut? But there hadn''t been so much as a breeze all day. Something was wrong-very wrong.

    She rushed to the door and grabbed the handle, tugging hard. It wouldn''t budge; someone had locked it from the outside.

    Damn it. Isabel began pounding on the door. "Ynde? Are you out there? Open the door! Ynde,e on-let me out!"

    She shouted until her voice was hoarse, but the only answer was silence-thick, heavy, imprable.

    Frowning deeply, Isabel tried to make sense of it. What was happening? Why would Ynde lock her in? She hammered the door again, refusing to give up.

    Wait-Effie. Was Effie even here?

    "Effie?¡± Her voice echoed through the empty cottage, bouncing off the walls anding back to her. No reply.

    The silence pressed in on her, oppressive and absolute. It felt as if she were the only soul in the world. A growing sense of dread took hold, and herposure began to splinter. Was this some borate trap? Was someone turning the tables on her?

    Where was Ynde? Isabel had brought her-there was no way Ynde would betray her. That was impossible... wasn''t it?

    Her mind spun in circles, thoughts thick and sluggish. Darkness closed in from all sides, and she couldn''t stop shaking.

    Just as despair threatened to swallow her whole, footsteps echoed outside. Instantly, hope zed in her chest. She hurried to the door, calling out, "Who''s there? Open the door-please!"

    Maybe Carole had returned with the doctor.

    Atst, the lock clicked and the door creaked open. Relief flooded Isabel-finally, someone hade.

    But as she stepped forward, her heart stopped. A tall figure was silhouetted in the doorway. Before she could react, a second and then a third person filed in behind him...

 Chapter 164

    The men-

    Did Isabel really think these were the people she''d arranged to "take care of" Effie?

    She stood frozen, her mind nk with shock.

    A wave of sour sweat stung her nose, making her stomach churn.

    Every instinct screamed at her to get out-right now.

    But as Isabel tried to slip away, one of the men stepped forward, blocking her path.

    "Where do you think you''re going, sweetheart?"

    Isabel''s breath caught in her throat. She forced herself to sound braver than she felt. "Get out of my way! Do you have any idea who I am?"

    The man grinned, revealing crooked, yellow teeth. His foul breath hit her like a p. "Of course I know. Someone paid us to be here."

    "That''s right! I paid, I''m Isabel. I''m not Effie-you''ve got the wrong person!" Isabel blurted, desperate for them to understand.

    Smack!

    A hard p cracked across her face.

    "Shut it. If you''re smart, you''ll do as you''re told-unless you want to lose those pretty teeth," the ringleader snarled.

    A cold wave of dread washed through Isabel. Something was horribly wrong. "You''re making a mistake! I''m the one who hired you! Why are you doing this to me?" she pleaded.

    What the hell was going on?

    Couldn''t these idiots understand in English?

    The men exchanged nces, then burst outughing.

    Their leader grabbed Isabel''s chin in a rough grip, his reeking breath inches from her face. "We get paid to do a job. The client wants us to treat you real nice-and doubled the price. So quit wasting your breath and enjoy yourself."

    Isabel shook so hard she could barely speak. "You''ve got the wrong woman! I''m Isabel, not Effie!" Her voice broke with panic.

    The man''s patience snapped. He yanked her head back by the hair and backhanded her again, even harder.

    Her cheek swelled instantly, going numb. Her scalp burned where he twisted her hair, as if he might scalp her at any moment. The pain was blinding-Isabel''s eyes filled with tears.

    She screamed, helpless.

    The men only leered. "It''s not time to scream yet, sweetheart. Save it forter- you''ll need it."

    "Yeah, we''ve seen girls like you before. You''d better be nice to us, or you''ll regret it," another jeered.

    Then they started pawing her, hands everywhere.

    Isabel felt bile rise in her throat. She was going to lose her mind.

    Someone please, someone help!

    She wanted to scream for help, but this ce was so remote, even if she shouted

    until her voice gave out, no one would hear her.

    All she could do was pray that Carole woulde soon.

    The door mmed shut, locking them in.

    Only a dim light flickered inside as the men crowded around Isabel.

    It wasn''t long before the silence broke-shouts, blows, Isabel''s desperate

    screams. The sounds were raw, torn from the edge of her sanity.

    Not far outside, Effie stood in the shadows, her face expressionless. She''d already guessed it might be Isabel-after all, they''d been at each other''s throatstely.

    But she hadn''t expected Isabel to be quite so vicious, to go this far.

    Effie let out a cold, joylessugh. Now Isabel could reap what she''d sown.

    What was it they said? Sauce for the goose, sauce for the gander.

    Lyman was lurking nearby as well. Effie wondered whether he realized it was Isabel inside.

    But honestly, whether he knew or not, she didn''t care.

    If she hadn''t been so careful, she''d be the one trapped in there right now. The thought sent a chill down her spine.

 Chapter 165

    Effie nced at the time; it was about time to leave.

    You should never wish harm on others, but you must always be wary of them.

    Everything was in ce now. Effie was ready to go, letting Isabel enjoy the "fun" she''d so carefully nned for herself.

    She brought this upon herself.

    From inside the cabin, Isabel''s shrill screams blended with ragged gasps¡ªalmost too harsh to listen to.

    Just as Effie turned to leave, she spotted a figure hurrying toward the cabin.

    It was Isabel''s manager, with a woman trailing behind her.

    The two of them headed straight for the small house.

    Effie watched for a moment, then slipped away.

    Lyman had been waiting nearby, relieved to see that Effie hadn''t gone into the cabin. He''d just stepped aside to answer a call, and now that he was back, Effie was already on her way out.

    They left together.

    In the car, Lyman asked, "Did you get a good look at who went in?"

    Effie thought for a moment, nced at him, and replied, "I saw Miss Isabel and her manager..."

    She was curious to see how Lyman would react.

    His expression didn''t change. He simply responded with a quiet "Hmm," tapping his long fingers on the steering wheel, his thoughts impossible to read.

    Effie shot him a sideways nce. When she saw that he didn''t seem to care, she turned away, a subtle smile tugging at her lips.

    Lyman nced over, his eyes dark and unreadable. "She made her choice. She''ll have to live with the consequences."

    Effie pressed her lips together and said nothing more.

    Her feelings wereplicated, too.

    She''d only asked to test the waters.

    Lyman, meanwhile, had already had someone look into things and uncovered Carole''s involvement. It was obvious Isabel had orchestrated the whole mess.

    Lyman felt a pang of disappointment. He couldn''t understand what had changed in Isabel. Why had she turned on Effie? Was it because of him?

    He furrowed his brow, wrestling with conflicted emotions.

    This time, he wouldn''t interfere. People had to own up to what they''d done.

    Back at the cabin, Carole had rushed over, but found no sign of Isabel or Ynde.

    A sudden, desperate howl from inside made Carole jump.

    She recognized the voice-it was Isabel.

    Carole pounded on the door, but there was no response.

    Out of options, she grabbed a rock and smashed the lock.

    She pushed the door open, and the scene that greeted her nearly took her breath away.

    Inside, Isabel''s voice was hoarse and fading, while a few men nearby leered andughed in a way that made Carole''s stomach turn.

    "Isabel!"

    Carole''s eyes widened in disbelief.

    How did ite to this?

    The men had already stripped down, ready to take things further.

    "Back off! If you don''t want to spend the night in jail, get out of here-now. The cops are on their way; I''ve already called them." Carole shouted.

    She was bluffing, acting on pure impulse.

    She''d expected to find Effie in danger, not Isabel.

    Isabel recognized Carole''s voice and, for a moment, it sounded like salvation.

    Thank God-Carole was here.

    She''d thought she was done for.

    "Ca... Carole..." Isabel managed, each word a struggle.

    Her face was swollen and bruised beyond recognition.

    If she hadn''t spoken, Carole wouldn''t have known it was Isabel at all.

    Terrified by Carole''s threat, the men scrambled to get dressed and bolted from the cabin.

    Carole knew exactly what had happened¡ªand that calling the police was out of the question.

    After all, she''d been the one who''d asked Ynde to set this up. She just hadn''t expected Isabel to be the one trapped inside.

 Chapter 166

    What on earth happened here?

    And where did that brat Ynde run off to?

    Why isn''t she anywhere to be found?

    Everything was in utter chaos now.

    When Carole saw the people scatter and flee, she finally let out a sigh of relief, then hurried over to Isabel''s side.

    "Isabel, what happened?" Carole''s voice trembled with pain.

    After all, she and Isabel had been partners for so long that they were practically family.

    Isabel''s clothes were ripped to shreds, baring her undergarments. Bruises and welts mottled her exposed skin, blue and purple, making her look absolutely ravaged.

    Thank God Carole had arrived in time; otherwise, if those men had gotten their way, Isabel would have been ruined-if not dead, then close to it.

    Carole was speechless when she saw the extent of Isabel''s injuries.

    She could hardly believe what Isabel must have endured in just one short hour.

    Isabel was shaking uncontrobly, tears mingling with blood as they streamed down her face. She made a hoarse, broken wailing sound, unable to form a singleplete sentence.

    She waspletely shattered, on the verge of passing out.

    Luckily, Carole had brought a doctor with her, who quickly examined Isabel.

    It was a relief¡ªall the wounds were superficial. Nothing life-threatening.

    Carole''s eyes brimmed with tears of sympathy. Hastily, she shrugged off her jacket and wrapped it around Isabel, her voice trembling. "Don''t be scared. I''m taking you away from here right now..."

    Isabel clung to her, sobbing uncontrobly. "Carole... thank you foring when you did. I thought... I thought I''d never see you again..."

    Her words were broken, muffled by the pain in her swollen face and split lips.

    It was clear that Isabel had suffered terribly.

    "It''s over now, you''re safe. And I promise you, we''ll make them pay for this," Carole said fiercely.

    She''d thought her n was wless, but it had backfired spectacrly, putting Isabel in harm''s way and nearly causing a disaster. The injustice of it all made Carole seethe with anger.

    Isabel''s own hatred burned even hotter. If those men had really vited her, she would have dragged that wretched Effie down with her-no matter the cost.

    Soon, Carole led Isabel away.

    Because the incident was so humiliating, Isabel didn''t call the police or go to a hospital; she simply went home to recover in private.

    For days afterward, she didn''t dare step outside.

    Meanwhile, after returning home, Effie quickly took a shower.

    It had been a long, exhausting day.

    When she stepped out of the bathroom, she instantly noticed Lyman watching her, his gaze intense and smoldering.

    Effie recognized that look all too well.

    She paused at the threshold, beads of water tracing down her hair, pooling at her corbone.

    She wore a pale pink nightdress that clung to her curves, leaving little to the imagination.

    Lyman''s eyes roamed over her, a heat that seemed to burn from her ankles all the way up, making every inch of exposed skin tingle.

    "Have you seen enough?" Effie asked shyly, toweling her damp hair.

    Lyman rose from the couch, his tall frame casting a shadow in the warm light. He strode over, gently lifting a lock of her wet hair with his fingers, his voice low and husky. "I could never see enough. Let me dry your hair."

    Effie looked up, meeting his gaze, her cheeks ame.

    But beneath the embarrassment, her heart was filled with warmth.

    She handed him the hairdryer.

    Lyman''s long fingers threaded gently through her hair, sending a shiver down her spine.

    Effie slowly closed her eyes, surrendering to thefort of this tender moment.

 Chapter 167

    Inside her apartment, Suzan stared at the pregnancy test in her hand, heart pounding with excitement. Two bold red lines. She could hardly contain her joy.

    Finally. She had done it.

    After all her careful nning and anxious anticipation, her dream wasing true atst.

    At first, Suzan wanted to call Mitchell right away and share the news. But almost immediately, she forced herself to calm down. She wasn''t sure how Mitchell would react to her pregnancy.

    Lately, Mitchell''s attitude toward her had been hot and cold. Still, thanks to some subtle maneuvers on her part, things between them had improved somewhat.

    But Suzan wasn''t taking any chances. She needed everything to go perfectly. Her thoughts quickly turned to Adeline.

    Suzan knew Adeline had always wanted a grandchild. If she found out Suzan was pregnant, she''d be over the moon.

    Suzan decided she''d find a way to let Adeline know-casually, of course. But for now, she nced at the clock. It was almost time for work. She hurried out the door and headed to the office.

    Since the recentpetition, Suzan had stepped away from the spotlight, but with a new collection in the works, her schedule was packed. As creative director, every sketch from the design teamnded on her desk for review.

    She offered feedback and suggestions, asserting her authority with confidence.

    At the office, everyone now saw Suzan as the boss''s wife. After Effie''s resignation, Suzan all but ran the ce.

    The staff treated her with respect, partly because Mitchell seemed to ept Suzan''s takeover without protest. Naturally, everyone followed his lead.

    Still, behind closed doors, employees whispered about thepany''s future, convinced that E&M was heading for disaster. Mitchell had little understanding of design, and Suzan was hardly an expert herself. Worse, she liked to act superior, pretending to know more than she did, and her management style was autocratic. The staff agreed: it was only a matter of time before things fell apart.

    But with Mitchell letting Suzan handle everythingtely, no one dared voice their frustration.

    Suzan swept into the office that morning, dressed to impress. Now, with her secret ace up her sleeve, she felt more confident than ever.

    She settled into what had once been Effie''s office-she''d imed it on purpose, a symbolic victory. As far as Suzan was concerned, she''d already reced Effie entirely.

    So much for Effie''s supposed talents. Thepany was still running just fine, wasn''t it?

    Suzan sat back in the chair, basking in her triumph, waiting for the designers toe in with their updates.

    It wasn''t long before hermanding voice rang out from her office. Outside, employees exchanged weary nces and shook their heads.

    These days were hard to bear. How they missed having Effie around.

    Around noon, Sigrid called and invited Suzan out for lunch and a bit of shopping. It was a regr arrangement; Suzan liked to y the generous friend, always happy to pick up the tab.

    Mitchell had a business dinner that night, so Suzan was d for thepany. She epted Sigrid''s invitation without hesitation.

    After all, Suzan''s ultimate goal was to be Mrs. Lloyd, so she needed to stay in Adeline and Sigrid''s good graces.

    Besides, today she had good news to share-though she didn''t want to make it too obvious.

    Sigrid''s invitation was perfectly timed.

    Suzan carefully chose a loose-fitting dress that hid her still-t stomach and gave her an air of gentle elegance. She stood before the mirror, applying a touch of pink lipstick, and smiled in satisfaction.

    "Suzan, you''re looking more beautiful every day!" Sigrid gushed as soon as they met, looping her arm through Suzan''s and showering her with honeyedpliments.

 Chapter 168

    Suzan offered a gentle smile. "Maybe I''m just in a good moodtely. So, where do you want to go shopping?"

    They wandered through a few designer boutiques, and Suzan took the initiative to help Sigrid pick out a new bracelet from thetest collection. When it came time to pay, she swiped the card without so much as a blink.

    Sigrid could hardly contain her delight. "Suzan, you''re so good to me!"

    "Of course I am¡ªyou''re my little sister, aren''t you?" Suzan replied with a cheerfulugh.

    After all, it was Mitchell''s credit card footing the bill. As far as Suzan was concerned, there was no harm done; as long as she could win over Adeline and Sigrid, her ce as Mrs. Lloyd would be secure.

    For lunch, Suzan deliberately chose an upscale restaurant. When it came time to order, she casually avoided any raw or cold dishes, settling instead on a te of steamed fish.

    When the food arrived, the fish was ced right in front of her. Suzan immediately frowned, pretending to gag as if the sight¡ªor smell¡ªwas unbearable.

    Sigrid''s eyes widened in rm. "Suzan, are you okay? Are you feeling sick?"

    Feigning nonchnce, Suzan replied, "It''s nothing. I just feel a little nauseous whenever I smell fish today. Not sure what''s going on."

    Sigrid, though still young, had seen enough daytime TV to put two and two together. She lowered her voice, asking, "Did your periode? Could you be... pregnant?"

    Suzan paused as if the thought had just urred to her. "I think I''m a weekte, actually. I''ve been tired a lottely. Do you really think I could be pregnant?"

    She put on an expression of genuine shock.

    "Oh my god, that must be it! I''m going to be an aunt!" Sigrid pped her hands excitedly. "Mom''s going to be over the moon!"

    Her mother had always been hinting that she wanted a grandchild. Now, it seemed, her wish was about toe true.

    Suzan quickly reached for Sigrid''s hand. "Let''s not tell your mom just yet, okay? I''m not sure if it''s real. I''ll take a test at home-I want to give her the surprise myself."

    "Alright, alright, I''ll keep it secret!" Sigrid promised, winking conspiratorially.

    But Suzan knew Sigrid well enough to be sure that the news would reach Adeline in no time.

    Sure enough, the very next day, Adeline called herself, her tone warmer than ever. "Suzan, why don''t youe over for dinner this weekend? I''ll have the kitchen prepare some nourishing soup."

    Suzan felt a rush of satisfaction but kept her tone demure. "Thank you, Mrs. Lloyd. I''ll be there on time."

    After hanging up, Suzan leaned back in her chair, a smile tugging at her lips. She gently stroked her stomach and whispered, "Alright, little one. It''s up to you now- hold tight to the Lloyds for Mommy. Everything depends on you."

    The weekend arrived, and Suzan made her way to the Lloyd family''s mansion.

    Adeline greeted her warmly, holding Suzan''s hand and sneaking nces at her midsection. "Suzan, work hasn''t been too hard on youtely, has it? Make sure you get plenty of rest."

    "Thank you for your concern, Mrs. Lloyd. I''ll be careful," Suzan replied sweetly. "Oh, and I brought you some skincare products-you mentioned you liked this cream."

    "Oh, you thoughtful girl, you remembered!" Adeline beamed, looking even more pleased with Suzan.

    Mitchell sat to the side, brow furrowed. "Mom, why are you doting on Suzan so much today?"

    Adeline just smiled, saying nothing as she kept piling food onto Suzan''s te.

    After lunch, she couldn''t hold back any longer. "Mitchell, Suzan is having your child¡ªwhy didn''t you tell us?" she chided.

    Mitchell''s head snapped up in shock, his gaze darting to Suzan. "You''re pregnant?!"

 Chapter 169

    Suzan feigned panic, her voice shaky. "I... I was going to tell you once I was certain..."

    Adeline cut her off, her face lighting up with joy. "This is wonderful news! Suzan, from today on, you''re moving in with us. I''ll make sure you''re well taken care of."

    Mitchell''s expression shifted uncertainly before he spoke in a low, steady voice. "Mom, I need to talk to Suzan alone about this."

    It was all happening so fast-he needed a moment to process.

    In his study, Mitchell fixed his gaze on Suzan. "Did you do this on purpose?"

    Suzan''s eyes grew moist in an instant. "Mitchell, what are you saying? Don''t you want this baby?"

    Mitchell tugged at his tie in frustration. "That''s not what I mean. It''s just... it''s all so sudden."

    He''d never imagined Suzan would get pregnant. He''d always been careful, taken every precaution.

    How did this even happen?

    "I know you''ve been under a lot of stresstely," Suzan murmured, her head lowered in wounded innocence. "That''s why I wanted to wait until things were more stable before telling you. If you really don''t want it, I can¡ª¡±

    "Don''t say that." Mitchell let out a long sigh. "It''s here now, so we''ll go through with it. I''ll take responsibility."

    After all, it was a life. Andtely, his father had been pressing him harder than ever for a legitimate heir. Those illegitimate brats circling on the sidelines were getting bolder by the day.

    If he had his own child, he''d finally have the upper hand.

    Looking at it that way, maybe the timing wasn''t so bad after all.

    Suzan threw herself into his arms, wrapping her arms around his waist, the corners of her lips curving into a triumphant smile.

    Mitchell gently patted her back, though his eyes were clouded with conflicted emotions.

    This hadn''t been in his ns, and the news had initially left him reeling.

    But now... he supposed he''d just let things y out.

    Adeline, positively glowing, instructed the housekeeper to prepare nutritious meals and even called in the family doctor to give Suzan a thorough check-up.

    "Suzan, you have to take extra good care of yourself now. This will be the Lloyd family''s first grandchild," Adeline beamed, her joy uncontainable.

    Suzan really was something special-hopefully she''d give birth to a son on her very first try.

    Adeline thought, not without a hint of smugness, that Effie had been with Mitchell for years and hadn''t produced so much as an egg. Thank goodness they''d broken up-who knows what would have happened otherwise.

    Suzan nodded sweetly. "Thank you, Mrs. Lloyd. I''ll be careful."

    Word soon reached the Bagnolds as well, and Vera was beside herself with delight.

    Her daughter truly was a chip off the old block!

    With Suzan pregnant, her ce in the Lloyd family was solid.

    As soon as Suzan returned home, Vera rushed to greet her, hovering anxiously and fussing over her like she was made of porcin. "Oh, my darling girl, you''re worth your weight in gold now. Walk slowly, don''t rush!"

    Suzan giggled, a yful note in her voice. "Mom, you''re being dramatic. I''ve just found out I''m pregnant, that''s all."

    Vera lowered her voice, her eyes sharp with calction. "Silly girl, this is exactly the time to be careful! The Lloyds aren''t just any family. If you have a son, the whole Lloyd estate could be yours one day!"

    The very thought made Vera''s heart race. She could already imagine bragging to her sisters and friends.

    Suzan absently touched her stomach, a sh of smug satisfaction in her eyes. "Don''t worry, Mom. I know what I''m doing."

    Vera nodded approvingly, then leaned in close to whisper, "And sweetheart, you need to start thinking of yourself now. While you''re pregnant, get Mitchell to buy you a house, a shop-get some assets in your name."

    Suzan hesitated, then nodded. "You''re right. I understand."

    Of course her status was about to rise, so she ought to secure more for herself.

    Business at thepany seemed to be picking up, too.

    She''d have to find a good moment to test the waters.

    Vera finally rxed, but not without another reminder. "The first three months are crucial. Watch what you eat, don''t overexert yourself, understood?"

 Chapter 170

    "Mom, don''t worry about me. I know what I''m doing." Suzan was more anxious about the child than anyone else.

    She mulled over her next steps, wondering what would be best.

    ...

    Time flew by, and before anyone realized it, the holidays were here.

    It was Effie''s first Christmas since marrying Lyman.

    She took it seriously-after all, she was the new wife in the family.

    First, she visited her grandmother, bringing along a generous basket of gifts and staying to share a meal.

    Lyman had wanted to invite her grandmother over to their ce for the holidays, thinking it would be livelier with her there. But Grandma preferred thepany of her neighbor these days, and politely declined the invitation.

    Effie didn''t push it-she visited often enough anyway.

    After dinner, she and Lyman headed home together.

    This year, they were having Christmas Eve dinner at the old family house.

    Lyman''s Uncle Healy and Uncle Fowler had both returned with their families.

    The patriarch had three sons: the eldest was Lyman''s father; the second, Healy Etheridge, was married to Charis and had a son named Graham; the youngest, Fowler Etheridge, was married to Marcia and had a daughter, Fidelia.

    Healy and Fowler both managed different branches of the family business out of town, so they only came back for major holidays and important asions.

    Since Effie and Lyman hadn''t held a wedding reception yet, she hadn''t met the whole extended family until now.

    Effie felt a flutter of nerves in her stomach.

    Lyman smiled, offering reassurance. "Don''t worry. Luther''s already picked out the gifts for everyone. All you have to do is hand them out."

    Effie pressed her lips together, a hint of anxiety in her voice. "I just hope everyone''s easy to get along with."

    Lyman''s gaze turned cool. "You have nothing to worry about. I''ll be right by your side."

    On the surface, the Etheridge family seemed harmonious, but beneath it all, tensions simmered.

    Healy''s and Fowler''s families had long resented Lyman''s control over the business, but out of respect for the patriarch, no one dared challenge him openly.

    The truth was, Lyman''s talent left them no room topete.

    Effie took a deep breath and slipped her arm through Lyman''s as they stepped into the old house.

    The foyer was bright and bustling, with staff hurrying to set the table.

    At the head of the room, Bancroft sat in his usual spot. When he saw theme

    in, warmth lit up his face. "There you are! Come, sit with us."

    Lyman nodded and guided Effie forward.

    Friedman and Lindy were already there, smiling as they watched the couple approach.

    Uncle Healy and Uncle Fowler''s families were all seated. As Effie and Lyman entered, every pair of eyes turned in their direction.

    Charis gave a wide, weing smile that didn''t quite reach her eyes. "So you''re Effie? You are lovely-I can see why Lyman''s so taken with you."

    Marcia chimed in with a smile of her own. "Yes, we heard your wedding was a bit rushed. No reception or anything. That must have been tough on you."

    Beneath the friendly words, the implication was clear: Effie hadn''t been given the importance she deserved.

    Effie''s fingers tightened slightly, but she kept herposure. "Aunt Charis, Aunt Marcia, it''s so nice to finally meet you. I brought a little something I hope you''ll like it."

    She handed them carefully wrapped gift boxes.

    Charis opened hers to find an elegant silk scarf-expensive, tasteful. Her smile softened into something genuinely appreciative. "Goodness, this is too much!"

    But she tucked it away quickly all the same.

    Marcia''s gift was another luxurious scarf-real silk, from a brand that was hard toe by.

    Fidelia leaned in with a yful grin. "So, what about me, sis?"

    Effie was ready. She handed over a limited-edition handbag. "I heard you love this designer. I hope it''s your style."

    Luther really was the ¡°ace assistant¡±¡ªhe seemed to know exactly what everyone in the family liked.

 Chapter 171

    Fidelia''s eyes lit up with delight. "Thank you so much!" she eximed.

    Graham stood off to the side, nodding with a cool detachment-a bare minimum of greeting.

    The gifts for Uncle Healy and Uncle Fowler were expensive blends of tea, the kind that bespoke taste and tradition.

    The old patriarch surveyed the scene with satisfaction, a gentle smile tugging at his lips. "Alright, let''s not just stand around. Dinner''s ready¡ªlet''s eat."

    The dining table was all warmth andughter on the surface, but beneath the facade, subtle tensions simmered.

    Charis, feigning casual curiosity, asked, "Effie, I heard you grew up with your grandmother? Marrying into the Etheridge family must feel like quite the stroke of luck."

    Before Effie could respond, Lyman interjected, voice calm but unmistakably protective. "You''re too modest, Aunt Charis. Effie is gentle and kind, and she graduated from a top university. I''m the lucky one to have her as my wife."

    Charis was caught off guard by his rebuttal and forced a thin, awkward smile. "We''re all hoping you two will give us some good news next year-maybe a chubby little addition to the family?" Marcia teased with augh.

    Effie yed along, lowering her gaze and blushing shyly.

    So this is life among the wealthy, she thought. Not as effortless as it looked from the outside.

    Sensing the tension, Fowler changed the subject. "Lyman, I heard thepany has a new project going. How''s iting along?"

    Lyman''s eyes glinted with amusement. "You''re well informed, Uncle Fowler. But the details will have to wait until the board meets after the holidays."

    Fowler''s expression tightened for a split second, but he quickly masked it.

    Damn, he thought. Fowler had been hoping to use the new project as leverage to transfer back to headquarters-he''d been stuck managing one of the satellite offices for ages, with nothing to show for it. He''d always resented being overshadowed by his ambitious nephew. This New Year''s gathering was his chance to curry favor with the patriarch and see if he could negotiate his return. After all, he had to start looking out for himself.

    Dinner ended, and the family dispersed to their rooms.

    Everyone was staying at the estate tonight-a long-standing New Year''s tradition. The house was sprawling, with wings, balconies, and enough guest rooms for everyone to have their own space. After the reunion dinner, people drifted off to find their own entertainment.

    New Year''s Eve was the same each year. Across the country, towns and cities were decked out in lights and decorations, everyone weing the new year with joy.

    But this year, Effie felt different.

    In the past, she''d always spent the holiday with her grandmother. Mitchell, her cousin, would go back to his own family for their reunion; he rarely brought Effie along, knowing howrge and cold his family gatherings could be. The rtives were sharp-tongued, and Mitchell couldn''t stand it, so Effie''s Eves were always low-key: a quiet meal, then watching the New Year''s special on TV with her grandmother.

    But this year, she was married, spending the holiday with Lyman.

    After dinner, Lyman took her hand and led her for a stroll in the moonlit garden. Healy''s and Fowler''s families retreated to their rooms.

    Inside, Healy''s expression was stern as he spoke to Charis. "You need to watch what you say¡ªespecially around Effie. Didn''t you notice how much Lyman cares about her?"

    Charis rolled her eyes, unimpressed. "She''s just some nobody. Why are you so worried? I bet Lyman''s just interested because she''s new."

    She couldn''t see what was so special about Effie. Hadn''t Lyman been close with Isabel before? How had things changed so quickly? Now he was married to Effie?

    Healy frowned, lowering his voice in warning. "You don''t understand. The old man clearly approves of Effie-you saw it yourself at dinner. Besides..." He paused, his eyes sharp with calction. "Lyman controls thepany now. We can''t afford to cross him."

    Charis snorted and tossed her earrings onto the vanity. "I just can''t stand the way she pretends to bedy of the house. Didn''t you see her tonight, acting as if she already runs things?"

 Chapter 172

    "Enough!" Healy mmed his palm on the table. "Do you really think things are the same as before? You''re not ignorant of Lyman''s methods. Have you already forgotten how Fowler''s people got kicked out of thepanyst time?"

    Charis''s expression shifted at the mention of that incident.

    Last year, Fowler''s confidant in the ounting department had been publicly fired by Lyman over a questionable transaction-so quickly and decisively that even the old man couldn''t protect him.

    "So... what do you want me to do?" Charis''s bravado faded.

    Healy narrowed his eyes and lowered his voice. "Right now, what matters most is making sure Graham secures his ce in thepany. Starting tomorrow, I want you to be polite to Effie-better yet, try to get close to her. Word is, Lyman dotes on her. Maybe you can get to him through her..."

    Meanwhile, in the Fowler family''s suite, the atmosphere was entirely different.

    Fowler yanked off his tie in frustration, pacing restlessly across the floor.

    Marcia approached quietly, offering him a cup of tea. "Don''t worry," she soothed, "we just need to take things one step at a time. The project hasn''t even started yet."

    "One step at a time?" Fowler let out a mirthlessugh. "If we go any slower, there won''t be a ce for us in thepany at all! Lyman''s getting bolder by the day. You saw it yourself-he wouldn''t even share the project details with us."

    A calcting glint flickered in Marcia''s eyes. "I actually think our breakthrough might be that Effie girl."

    As a woman, Marcia noticed things others missed.

    Lyman was different with Effie.

    During dinner, his gaze barely left her. He kept serving her food, attentive to her every need.

    That was nothing like the old Lyman, who always wore a frosty expression and never bothered with such gestures.

    Fowler paused mid-stride, looking at his wife with growing curiosity.

    "I watched them during dinner," Marcia murmured. "Lyman treats her like she''s special. And she''s just joined the Etheridge family¡ªshe''ll need allies. She might be just the person we can approach."

    Fowler nodded thoughtfully, a sly smile tugging at his lips. "You''re right. Isn''t Fidelia about her age? Have Fidelia spend more time with her, get close..."

    Meanwhile, in the garden-

    Lyman led Effie by the hand, strolling beneath the archways strung with glowingnterns.

    Fireworks burst across the night sky, casting fleeting light over Effie''s delicate profile.

    "What are you thinking about?" Lyman''s voice was soft, almost teasing.

    Effie shook her head with a gentle smile. "Just thinking how special this New Year''s Eve feels."

    Lyman stopped, cradled her face in his hands, and gazed at her with a tenderness that seemed to glow in the moonlight. "Mrs. Etheridge, remember this: As long as I''m here, every New Year''s Eve will be special for you."

    Suddenly, he nced at his watch and began to count down under his breath. "Five, four, three, two, one..."

    He leaned in and pressed a gentle kiss to Effie''s forehead. "Happy New Year, Mrs. Etheridge."

    His deep, warm voice seemed to reverberate through the crisp night air. "Happy New Year, Mr. Etheridge!" Effie replied, her tone soft and affectionate.

    They embraced beneath a sky aze with colorful fireworks-more magnificent and enchanting than any New Year''s disy she could remember.

    Then Lyman whispered in her ear, his voice low and sincere, "My New Year''s wish is that Mrs. Etheridge stays safe and healthy, that everything goes your way, and your career flourishes."

    Still wrapped in his arms, Effie instinctively tightened her grip around his neck, their bodies pressed close.

    She was touched, realizing every one of his wishes was for her.

    Effie whispered back, "My wish is that from now on, everything goes smoothly for Mr. Etheridge¡ªmay you stay healthy, free from trouble, and may your career reach new heights."

    In that moment, it was as if the world had fallen away, leaving only the two of them lost in each other''s eyes.

 Chapter 173

    The two of them held each other close, neither willing to let go for a long, lingering moment.

    It wasn''t until Effie caught a glimpse of what looked like a shadow at the upstairs window that she finally stepped out of Lyman''s embrace.

    "It''s getting chilly out here. Why don''t we go back to our room?" she suggested. "Alright, let''s go," Lyman agreed with a gentle nod.

    With so many rtives visiting the old house today, Lyman knew Effie might be feeling a bit out of ce-especially since this was her first time meeting Uncle Healy and Uncle Fowler''s families. It was a lot for anyone to take in at once.

    Back in their room, Effie tapped her forehead andughed. "Look at me, I nearly forgot! I have a New Year''s gift for you. Wait here, I''ll get it."

    Lyman just smiled, his eyes warm and knowing. It was as if their thoughts always moved in perfect sync-he''d prepared a gift for her too.

    They exchanged presents, each trying (and failing) to hide their anticipation.

    Effie reached into her bag and pulled out a velvet box, handing it to Lyman with a hopeful look. "Open it-see if you like it?"

    Lyman took the box, nced up to meet her gaze, and slowly lifted the lid. Inside was a vintage silver pocket watch, its casing engraved with intricate vines and blossoms. When he opened it, he discovered a tiny photograph tucked inside the lid-himself, in profile, from the very first day they met.

    He froze for a heartbeat, running his fingers lightly over the photo. His voice was huskier than usual. "When did you..."

    Effie bit her lip, eyes sparkling with mischief. "I snipped it outst time I was going through the photo albums. And the watch¡ªI had it custom-made in Switzend. They say it''ll keep perfect time for a hundred years."

    Lyman let out a low chuckle, snapping the watch shut and curling his fingers around it.

    Then, from the inner pocket of his suit, he drew out a deep blue velvet jewelry box and offered it to her. "Seems we were on the same wavelength."

    Effie took the box, opening it with trembling hands. Her breath caught. Nestled inside was a tinum ne strung with a striking blue diamond. Under themplight, the gem shimmered like the heart of the ocean. On the back of the diamond''s setting, she spotted two tiny engraved letters: E & L.

    "I bought this diamond back at an auction," Lyman said softly, brushing a strand of hair from her cheek. "It was called ''Poseidon''s Tear.'' But I think it deserves a new name-Effie and Lyman."

    Effie''s eyes burned with happy tears. She clutched the ne, then rose on tiptoe and pressed a gentle kiss to his lips. "Will you help me put it on?"

    It felt so good, she thought, to be cherished like this.

    Lyman''s eyes darkened. He took the ne, his warm breath brushing her ear as he fastened the sp behind her neck.

    The blue diamond sparkled brilliantly in the light, resting right at the center of Effie''s corbone. Lyman''s long fingers lingered, gently adjusting the pendant.

    "It suits you perfectly," he murmured, his voice rougher than usual. "It''s like it was meant for you."

    Effie raised her hand to the diamond, then seemed to remember something. She tilted her head to look at him. "An auction? When did you go to that? Didn''t you say you were traveling for workst week?"

    Lyman chuckled, pulling her closer. "I was. The conference ended early, and I happened to catch the Sotheby''s jewelry auction."

    He paused, brushing his thumb along her shoulder. "The moment I saw it, I knew it belonged to you."

    Effie''s heart swelled. She nced out the window-and caught, just for a second,

    a flicker of movement behind the upstairs curtains.

    What was that?

    Was someone watching them?

    They''d been staring this way for a while now.

    "What''s wrong?" Lyman noticed the shift in her mood.

    Effie shook herself, pulling the curtains tightly shut. "It''s nothing."

    With that, she made sure the room was sealed away from prying eyes.

 Chapter 174

    Effie quickly changed the subject with a mischievous glint in her eyes. "So, the ne has a name now. What about my pocket watch?"

    Lyman reached into his pocket and pulled out the antique watch, his thumb tracing the intricate vine design etched on the cover. "How about we call it ''Witness of Time''?"

    "Witness of Time?" Effie repeated, her voice soft with curiosity.

    He gently drew her closer, their foreheads touching. "To mark every moment we share together."

    On New Year''s Eve, some people are cheerful, while others are restless.

    In theory, a new year should mean a fresh start for everyone¡ªa time of joy, hope, and celebration. But Mitchell was anything but happy.

    In fact, he was downright miserable.

    Suzan was pregnant, and for the time being, she was staying with the Lloyd family.

    The Lloyds treated her like a treasure, tending to her every need with painstaking

    care.

    Suzan, for her part, absorbed all the attention without a hint of guilt, luxuriating in their concern. She also kept a close eye on Mitchell, tightening her grip on his every move.

    Ever since she found out she was expecting, Mitchell hadn''t been allowed to set foot outside.

    He was growing more irritable by the day.

    And when he saw Effie shopping for men''s gifts just a couple of days ago¡ª something she used to do only for him-his mood soured even further.

    The more he dwelled on it, the more resentment bubbled up inside him. Finally, unable to bear it, he slipped out, leaving Suzan behind.

    By the time Suzan realized he was gone, Mitchell was already lost in the dizzying chaos of a downtown bar, drinking himself into oblivion.

    At some point, he pulled out his phone and dialed Effie''s number.

    It was all he wanted to do in that drunken haze.

    Normally, Mitchell''s pride would never have allowed it. But tonight, with enough alcohol swirling in his veins to dull his shame, he let the impulse take over and called her.

    Effie was standing by the window, lost in thought, when her phone suddenly rang. She nced at the screen, brow furrowing in surprise. Mitchell? Why would he be calling? There was nothing left between them-no reason to talk.

    Still, the phone kept ringing, and with Lyman in the shower, she knew Mitchell would only keep trying if she ignored him. After a brief hesitation, Effie answered, her voice cool and guarded. "Hello? What do you want?"

    A st of deafening music and rowdy voices thundered down the line, nearly drowning out Mitchell''s slurred greeting. "Effie... Happy New Year. Where... where are you?"

    "I''m at home." Her tone was calm and detached. "You''re drunk. You must have dialed the wrong number. There''s nothing left for us to say. Please don''t call me again it''s making my life difficult."

    "I... I''m not drunk!" Mitchell insisted, punctuating his denial with a hup. "Why... why did you marry someone else? You used to... you used to love me more than anyone."

    Effie pressed her lips together, annoyance flickering across her face. "Mitchell, that''s not funny. I''m married now. The man I love is my husband. Please respect that, and don''t call me again."

    With that, she hung up.

    Mitchell was out of his mind.

    How had she never seen this side of him before?

    Just then, Lyman stepped out of the bathroom, towel draped casually around his neck. He couldn''t help but smile, having overheard Effie''s candid words.

    Well done. She was getting better at this-her confession hade so naturally, so sincerely.

    For someone as reserved as Effie, hearing those words wasn''t easy. He never thought he''d actually get to hear them from her. But here they were.

    And he could only guess who had been on the other end of that call.

    Mitchell really must have too much time on his hands if he''s pestering my wife, Lyman thought with a cold, inward smirk. Once the holidays are over, he''d have to remind Mitchell of a few boundaries.

    Seeing Effie hang up, Lymanposed himself and strolled out as if nothing had happened. He kept his tone casual. "Was that anyone important?¡±

    Effie shook herself from her thoughts, a faint smile curving her lips. "Just someone who doesn''t matter."

 Chapter 175

    Lyman was more than satisfied with that answer.

    It seemed that person was no threat to him whatsoever.

    At first, Lyman had harbored a few worries¡ªafter all, there were years of history between them. He''d even been ready to fight tooth and nail for Effie if it came to that.

    But now, with this unexpected turn, he found himself rather pleased.

    "Well, if they''re not important, there''s no need to waste energy on them. We have far more pressing matters to attend to." With that, Lyman swept Effie into his

    arms.

    Effie squeaked in surprise, instinctively looping her arms around his neck.

    Lyman strode toward the king-sized bed, a yful smile curving his lips. His fingertips traced a feather-light path along her slender waist, making Effie shiver in anticipation.

    The temperature in the room seemed to rise with every step.

    Mitchell, meanwhile, grew more agitated after Effie hung up on him.

    Damn it¡ªshe wouldn''t even take his calls anymore. Was it possible she felt nothing for him now?

    The thought made his chest tighten. He immediately waved for another round of drinks, determined to drown himself in whiskey until the world spun out of focus.

    Suzan had called him more times than he could count, but every time her name shed on his phone, Mitchell hit decline without a second thought. He''d finally managed to escape the house¡ªhe wasn''t about to let anyone rein him in tonight.

    So he kept drinking.

    That''s when a woman strutted over-her dress short, heels sky-high, and lips painted a striking scarlet. Without hesitation, she slid onto the barstool beside him.

    A slim cigarette dangled between her fingers, the smoke curlingzily as her sultry gaze drifted over Mitchell.

    "Drinking alone? That''s no fun," she drawled, her voicenguid as she nudged a ss of amber whiskey toward him. "Cheers."

    Mitchell raised his bleary eyes. In the dim, seductive glow of the bar, the woman''s makeup looked almost hypnotic-her features sharp, alluring. For a split second, Mitchell could''ve sworn she resembled Effie, and a flicker of interest lit up inside him.

    He reached for her, pulling her into his arms. "Just a toast?" he murmured.

    She leaned in, her lips brushing his ear. ¡°Oh, there''s more than that. I''m all yours tonight."

    She''d been watching him for a while now-he was dressed head-to-toe in designerbels, ordering nothing but the most expensive bottles. Clearly, he wasn''t short on cash.

    Her lips grazed his earlobe, her perfume and warm breath clouding his senses. For a moment, Mitchell imagined he was holding Effie again, and his arms tightened unconsciously.

    "What''s your name?" he asked, his voice rough, fingers tracing the bare skin of her shoulder.

    "Call me Lily," she purred, pressing the ss to his lips, her nails teasing down his throat. "So... how do you want to y tonight?"

    Mitchell tossed back the drink in one gulp, feeling the burn all the way down.

    Then, without another word, he pulled her close and led her out of the bar.

    Back at home, Suzan was frantically calling him, but each call went unanswered.

    In frustration, she finally hurled her phone onto the bed.

    Damn it!

    Where the hell was Mitchell?

    Ever since she''d gotten pregnant, Suzan had toned things down, afraid Mitchell might do something reckless that could harm the baby. But maybe because of that, she felt the distance between them growing.

    Lately, it seemed like Mitchell was losing patience with her altogether.

    Still, for the sake of their child, Suzan endured it.

    But now, on New Year''s Eve of all nights, Mitchell had disappeared-and wouldn''t

    even answer his phone. God only knew what he was up to.

 Chapter 176

    The more Suzan thought about it, the angrier she became. If things really got out of hand, she''d have to call in some backup.

    Meanwhile, Mitchell, with his arm around a woman, headed straight for the nearest luxury hotel.

    He could barely contain his impatience-Suzan''s recent pregnancy had left him pent up and frustrated. But even so, Mitchell had his standards; he wasn''t one to jump into bed with just anyone. Tonight, though, this woman caught his eye in just the right way, and he couldn''t resist.

    He and the woman checked into a suite, eager to indulge themselves. By the end of the night, the room was in shambles-Mitchell had been drinking, and after Effie''s little stunt earlier, he''d let loose, pulling the woman along for a wild ride all over the ce.

    She was a willing partner, adventurous and yful, going along with whatever he suggested, yet bringing her own spice to the night. When it was over, Mitchell still felt a lingering hunger.

    Morning sunlight streamed through the curtains when he finally woke. Wrapped in a haze of pleasure, he didn''t want to get up. But today was a big day for the family -a reunion he couldn''t skip. With a reluctant sigh, he forced himself out of bed.

    He nced at the woman beside him. Her eyes, still heavy with sleep, shimmered with a kind of vulnerability, her body marked by the night''s passion, giving her an alluring charm that tugged at something in him.

    Especially her features¡ªthere was a faint resemnce to Effie. Mitchell couldn''t deny he liked that. But his attraction was purely physical, nothing deeper. To him, she was an outlet, a fun distraction-nothing more.

    Sensing he was awake, the woman''sshes fluttered before she slowly opened her eyes. She offered him azy, seductive smile. "So... wasst night to your liking?¡± she murmured, trailing her foot along his calf.

    Desire sparked again in Mitchell, and in a heartbeat, he pinned her beneath him once more.

    By the time they finished, it was nearly noon.

    Mitchell knew he had to leave-if he stalled any longer, he''d get an earful back home. He rose, took a quick shower, got dressed, and then scribbled out a check for thirty thousand dors.

    "Last night was mutual fun,¡± he said as he handed her the check. "We both had a good time. Go buy yourself something nice."

    The woman''s eyes grew wide as saucers at the sight of the amount.

    Oh my god. That much for just one night?

    He''s the real deal a golden goose!

    Mitchell was clearly satisfied; otherwise, he wouldn''t have been so generous.

    She snatched up the check, unable to hide her delight, though a calcting glint flickered in her eyes.

    "Thank you. I had a wonderful time. I almost hate to let you go," she purred.

    Mitchell shot her a nce, then reached over to run his hands over her body onest time.

    "Don''t worry, sweetheart. We''ll have another chance."

    And with that, he left.

    The woman clutched the check, practically giddy.

    What a windfall! Men like him didn''te around often.

    Normally, after a night like this, she''d take her birth control without a second thought. But this time, she changed her mind. She pretended to swallow the pill in front of Mitchell, but only held it in her mouth. When the door closed behind him, she spat it out.

    She already knew who Mitchell was. A man this wealthy-if he''d pay that much for a one-night stand, imagine what he''d give a mistress.

    If she yed her cards right, maybe she could get more. After all, who didn''t want a better life?

    It was obvious Mitchell liked her; it almost seemed like he was searching for something familiar in her face.

    So, as he was leaving, she''d coaxed his contact information out of him.

    Now, all she had to do was wait and see what happened next.

 Chapter 177

    When Mitchell got home, everyone had already finished lunch.

    His father looked at him with clear disapproval. "Do you know what time it is? Suzan''s pregnant-you''re about to be a father, yet you''re still acting so irresponsibly!"

    The frustration in his voice was unmistakable.

    Mitchell stood in the foyer, head down as he changed his shoes, saying nothing.

    His clothes were wrinkled, and his jacket still carried the sharp scent ofst night''s whiskey and smoke from the bar.

    He didn''t bother to defend himself. He just let his father lecture him in silence.

    It was Adeline who came out, her tone gentle as she tried to smooth things over. "Darling, don''t be so upset. It''s the holidays-Mitchell just wanted to rx with his friends for a bit. That''s perfectly normal."

    She turned to Mitchell with a mother''s kindness. "Mitchell, we set some food aside for you. I''ll have the housekeeper warm it up."

    His father snorted. "Keep coddling him, and you''ll regret it soon enough." With that, he turned and disappeared into his study.

    Mitchell spoke quietly. "Mom, I''m going to change out of these clothes first."

    Upstairs, Suzan was sulking.

    Mitchell hadn''te home at allst night, and she was furious.

    She sat at her vanity, clutching her hairbrush so tightly her knuckles whitened. Her eyes in the mirror were red and puffy-she''d clearly cried.

    She hadn''t slept a wink. The thought kept looping in her mind: she wasn''t even married to Mitchell yet, and he was already treating her like this. What would the rest of her life be like?

    She needed to figure something out.

    When the door opened, Suzan spun around, her voice trembling with restrained anger. "So you finally decided toe home? Where have you been? Why didn''t you answer your phone?"

    Just thinking about being pregnant while Mitchell was out partying made her blood boil.

    Mitchell wasn''t the man he used to be.

    A nervous unease gnawed at her, but she couldn''t control him.

    He stood in the doorway, looking disheveled his clothes crumpled like he''d slept

    in them, his tie hanging loose, and a suspicious lipstick stain marked the cor of his shirt.

    He rubbed his temples, his tone dismissive. "I had too much to drinkst night. Crashed at a friend''s ce."

    "Oh, really? And which friend was that?" Suzan''sugh was cold as she snatched her phone and flung it onto the bed. "Your friends posted pictures on social media at two in the morning-there you were, at the Velvet Lounge, all over some woman!"

    Her hands shook as she gestured to her swollen belly. "I''m barely three months pregnant, and you''re already-"

    She couldn''t finish the sentence.

    How could Mitchell have changed so quickly?

    He used to be so good to her. He''d even dumped Effie for her. She thought she''d won, destroyed something deep and real between them.

    But she''d underestimated Mitchell''s worst instincts. Men always crave something

    new.

    "Enough!" Mitchell suddenly raised his voice, making Suzan flinch.

    He seemed to realize he''d lost his temper and yanked his tie off, irritation written

    all over his face. "It was just harmless fun. Do you have to blow everything out of proportion?"

    Effie never nagged like this. God, how he missed the quiet.

    "Oh, I''m blowing things out of proportion?" Suzan shot back, her gaze hard as she stared at the red marks on his neck. "Did you sleep with her, too?"

    Mitchell''s eyes darted away, then he shrugged off his jacket with a scowl. "Think whatever you want."

    He turned to head for the bathroom, but Suzan jumped to her feet and grabbed his sleeve.

    "Mitchell! Is this how it is now? You think just because I''m pregnant I can''t do anything about it? How can you treat me like this? Have you no conscience at all?"

 Chapter 178

    "Let go." His voice was cold as he shot Suzan a warning nce.

    Suzan bit down hard on her lip, eyes brimming with tears. Her voice trembled with hurt. "After everything I''ve done for you-and now that I''m pregnant-this is how you treat me?"

    Mitchell let out a short, mockingugh, his gaze filled with scorn. "Suzan, don''t act like you''re some kind of martyr. Who was it that climbed into my bed, even though you knew I was dating Effie? Who seduced whom?"

    He leaned in, words as sharp as knives. "Who strutted around in front of Effie, rubbing it in her face? And now you want to y the victim?"

    Suzan''s face drained of color, her fingers trembling.

    "What''s wrong? Nothing to say?" Mitchell looked down at her, sneering. "Did I get anything wrong?"

    Suzan''s chest heaved, her nails digging deep into her palms.

    Leave? How could she just walk away now? She''d schemed so hard to get this far-there was no way she''d give it all up without a fight.

    She quickly softened her tone, her voice pleading. "Mitchell, how can you say that about me? I worry about you because I love you."

    Mitchell harshly shook her hand off.

    Suzan lost her bnce, stumbling and hitting the edge of a chair as she fell to the floor.

    Suddenly, she clutched her stomach.

    "Aah¡ª¡± Suzan cried out, her face turning ghostly pale, cold sweat beading on her forehead.

    "Mitchell, my stomach... it hurts... so much..."

    Mitchell froze, panic flickering in his eyes. "What''s wrong with you?"

    He''d only shaken her off-how could things get this serious?

    Suzan curled up on the carpet, her fingers clutching the fabric of her dress so tightly her knuckles whitened.

    She lifted her face, voice shaking, tears and sweat mingling on her cheeks. "Mitchell... it really hurts... the baby... our baby..."

    A bright red stain slowly spread across the pale fabric of her dress.

    Mitchell''s

    eyes widened in shock, fear flooding his features.

    He rushed forward, scooping Suzan into his arms. "Hang in there, Suzan! I''m taking you to the hospital!"

    Dammit.

    Mitchell snapped out of his rage in an instant.

    Why did he have to push her like that?

    He knew she''d been on edge ever since she got pregnant, desperate for

    reassurance.

    Suzany weakly in his arms, lips chalk-white. But as Mitchell hurried out the door, she tilted her face away-just enough to hide the small, triumphant smirk curling at her lips.

    She knew Mitchell all too well-it just took the right push.

    She''d gone all in, and it was working.

    As Mitchell rushed Suzan outside, the others in the house stood frozen in shock.

    Mrs. Lloyd''s voice was frantic. "Mitchell! Where are you going? What''s wrong with Suzan?"

    She''d caught a glimpse of red on Suzan''s dress.

    No-surely Suzan wasn''t bleeding?

    How could this be happening?

    Her precious grandchild!

    "Drive faster!" Mitchell barked at the driver, ncing down at the blood spreading across Suzan''s dress, his own hands shaking uncontrobly.

    The emergency room lights flickered above as Mitchell slumped onto a bench, his suit stained with Suzan''s blood.

    Regret crashed over him.

    It wasn''t until he saw the blood that he realized he did care about this child.

    He''d been a terrible excuse for a father; how could he have been so cruel?

    He cursed himself, silently praying for Suzan and the baby to pull through. After a while, the doctor came out, his expression grave. "Mr. Lloyd, the baby is safe for now, but the mother''s emotional state is unstable. She''ll need to be monitored in the hospital."

    Mitchell let out a long breath, relief washing over him. Thank God. Disaster had been narrowly avoided.

 Chapter 179

    After a while, Adeline rushed in, out of breath. "Mitchell, how''s Suzan? Is she all right?"

    Mitchell gave her a reassuring nod. "Mom, don''t worry. Both mother and baby are safe. Everything''s fine."

    Adeline let out a long sigh of relief, hands pressed together in silent gratitude. "Thank heavens! I was so worried. Mitchell, you can''t upset Suzan anymore, do you hear me? You need to go along with whatever she says while she''s pregnant. This is the first child of the Lloyd family-it means everything to us." Her tone was gentle but firm, full of earnest concern.

    Adeline had waited for this child for so long.

    "I understand, Mom," Mitchell replied, nodding again.

    He knew perfectly well how important this baby was. Outside, all those hungry jackals were waiting for him to slip up, eager to see him fail.

    But he was the rightful heir to the Lloyd family.

    Soon, Suzan was wheeled out of surgery and taken to a private suite in the hospital.

    Inside the VIP room, Suzany weakly on the hospital bed, her face white as a sheet.

    She blinked her eyes open and saw Adeline and Mitchell standing at her bedside. Tears welled up immediately. ¡°Mrs. Lloyd, I''m so sorry for making you worry..."

    Adeline quickly took her hand, her voice full of affection. "Oh, sweetheart, don''t say that! What matters now is that you rest and take care of yourself and the baby. Don''t think about anything else."

    Then she shot Mitchell a stern look. "And if Mitchell ever upsets you again, I''ll break his legs myself!"

    Adeline''s threat was half-joking, but she meant every word.

    Mitchell, standing nearby, looked visibly anxious.

    He stepped forward, gently taking Suzan''s hand in his. "Suzan, this was my fault. I promise, I''ll stay by your side from now on, and I won''t be going anywhere."

    Suzan managed a faint, pale smile. "Mitchell, I knew you still cared about me- and about our baby."

    Adeline watched the scene, finally able to rx a little. "That''s more like it! You two should look after each other. Now I can be at ease. Suzan, I''ve asked the housekeeper to make you some nourishing broth-it''ll be here soon. Focus on getting your strength back."

    "Thank you, Mrs. Lloyd," Suzan murmured, her voice weak but grateful.

    Shortly after, Adeline left the room.

    As soon as she was gone, Suzan''s lips curled in the slightest hint of a triumphant smile-one Mitchell couldn''t see.

    Perfect.

    She''d bet everything, and she''d won.

    Yes, Suzan had done it on purpose.

    Desperation breeds bold moves, and she''d had no choice-she needed to keep Mitchell tied to her.

    After what happened today, at least for a while, Mitchell would behave himself.

    ...

    Effie and Lyman stayed at the old family house for three days before heading home.

    Effie nned to visit her grandmother.

    But something felt off-she couldn''t shake the uneasy feeling that something was about to happen.

    After leaving the family estate, they went straight to her grandmother''s apartment.

    The car wound its way into the city''s older district. Soon, they arrived at her grandmother''s building.

    Effie hadn''t called ahead¡ªshe wanted to surprise her.

    But it turned out she was the one about to be surprised¡ªand not in a good way.

    Just as she reached the door, a heavy thud echoed from inside, followed by her grandmother''s sharp cry of pain.

    Effie''s heart clenched in panic. Forgetting all about knocking, she burst through the door.

    "Grandma!" The sight before her made Effie''s eyes sting with tears.

    Her grandmothery sprawled on the living room floor, freshly foldedundry scattered around her, her right ankle already grotesquely swollen.

    Lyman rushed over and knelt to examine her. ¡°It''s a bad sprain, maybe even a fracture. We need to get Grandma to the hospital right away."

    "Lyman, Effie... What are you doing here?" her grandmother managed, forcing a weak smile through the pain. "I''m fine, really¡ªjust a little ident..."

 Chapter 180

    Effie knelt beside her grandmother, her hands trembling as she gripped the old woman''s wrinkled fingers. ¡°Grandma, please don''t move. We''re taking you to the hospital right away."

    When she looked up, she saw Lyman already on the phone, calling for an ambnce.

    Given her grandmother''s age, neither of them dared to move her on their own. It was safer to wait for the paramedics and let the professionals handle it.

    The ambnce arrived quickly, doctors in tow. Effie''s grandmother was rushed to the hospital without dy.

    As the doors to the emergency room swung closed behind her grandmother, Effie felt her heart twist with anxiety.

    Lyman tried tofort her. "She''s tough, Effie. She''ll pull through. Don''t worry."

    Effie nodded, guilt gnawing at her. She couldn''t shake the feeling that she should have taken better care of her grandmother.

    Noticing her worry, Lyman said gently, "When she''s better, let''s have here live with us. That way, we can look after her properly."

    Effie sighed softly. "Grandma''s so stubborn, though. I doubt she''ll agree."

    She''d brought it up many times before, but her grandmother always refused. With her best friend living next door, she was even less willing to leave her home.

    "It''s okay," Lyman assured her. "We''ll talk to her again when she''s feeling better. And if she still doesn''t want to move, I can hire a live-in caregiver for her. It''s not a big deal¡ªjust a matter of money, and that''s something I have."

    Effie managed a small smile. With Lyman by her side, she felt a little more at

    ease.

    Just then, the light above the emergency room door flicked off. The doctor emerged, pulling off his mask. "Your grandmother has a fractured ankle," he exined. "We''ve put it in a cast, but because of her age, healing might take a while. She''ll need to stay in bed and rest for some time."

    "Thank you, doctor," Effie said gratefully.

    Soon, her grandmother was transferred to a private suite the hospital''s best, quiet andfortable, perfect for her to recuperate without disturbance.

    It wasn''t long before her grandmother woke up. "I''m fine," she insisted. "It''s just a twisted ankle. I''ll be back on my feet in a couple of days. You two don''t need to worry about me. Go on, get back to your own lives."

    She hated the idea of being a burden.

    Effie, exasperated, shook her head. ¡°Grandma, how can you say that? You scared me half to death! Promise me you''ll be more careful from now on."

    Lyman chimed in, "She''s right, Grandma. You really gave us a fright. After you''re discharged, why don''t youe stay with us for a while? We can take good care of you."

    "No, thank you. I like living on my own," her grandmother replied firmly. "I''m not about to be a third wheel in your newlywed nest. Besides, my neighbor is waiting for me to teach her yoga!"

    Lyman tucked the nket around her and said gently, "At least let us hire a live-in caregiver for you. We''d feel much better."

    "We''ll talk about itter," she replied, neither agreeing nor refusing.

    Effie could only sigh, resigned. "Alright, we''ll figure it out after you''re discharged."

    Her grandmother needed to rest, so Effie slipped out to handle the admission paperwork.

    As she walked through the quiet corridor and turned a corner, a voice called out behind her.

    "Sis, what are you doing here?"

 Chapter 181

    Effie heard Suzan''s insincere voice calling out behind her, but she didn''t even

    bother to turn around¡ªshe squared her shoulders and strode straight toward the lobby, not sparing Suzan so much as a nce.

    Suzan watched Effie''s retreating figure, her brow furrowed in irritation, a sh of anger in her eyes.

    Effie thought she was so much better than everyone else? Who did she think she was, ignoring her like that? Just a woman cast aside and left on her own.

    She could hardly tell which way was up these days.

    No way was Suzan going to let such a rare opportunity slip through her fingers.

    She hurried after Effie and grabbed her arm.

    Forced to a stop, Effie turned, her expression cool with a hint of annoyance in her bright, starry eyes. "What do you want?"

    Suzan shrank back as if startled, her eyes instantly shining with unshed tears. "So you can hear me after all, Effie? Then why are you ignoring me?"

    Effie couldn''t help thinking Suzan would make a fantastic actress-with theatrics like that, she''d be an award-winner her first year out.

    Did Suzan really not know why she was being ignored?

    Almost as if she''d read Effie''s mind, Suzan began fussing over her. "Are you feeling unwell, Effie? Did youe to the hospital to get checked out?"

    "You know, nothing matters more than your health, right?"

    "I heard you''ve had some health issues, that''s why you haven''t been able to have kids..."

    Suzan trailed off, feigning embarrassment. She tapped her lips lightly, her eyes glinting with mock apology. "Oops, sorry, I forgot you know how I am never could keep my mouth shut."

    "But you won''t mind, will you?"

    Suzan had dragged Effie''s infertility out into the open, and Effie''s gaze fell thoughtfully on Suzan''s midsection. There was a subtle change-a slight swell at her waist, as if Suzan were unting something.

    Noticing Effie''s stare, Suzan deliberately ced a protective hand on her lower back.

    Effie let out a coldugh. "I honestly don''t care what some people say. Some folks only know how to run their mouths-they forgot to grow a brain."

    Suzan''s face turned red with rage. She waited until Effie had walked away before gritting her teeth and muttering, "Useless hen!"

    Effie heard her, but didn''t react.

    They''d already gone their separate ways-was it so hard to let each other keep a little dignity?

    She''d never tried to use a child as leverage to marry Mitchell. She''d believed that if two people truly loved each other, they didn''t need outside conditions to move forward together.

    Her own mother had rushed into marriage with Shepard just because she was pregnant. In the end, she''d been trapped in that marriage-trapped because of Effie-and the consequences...

    So when Effie was with Mitchell, she''d always insisted: no marriage, no intimacy. Maybe that was why Mitchell had cheated.

    People always say you shouldn''t foul your own nest, but Mitchell was just like Shepard no better at all.

    The thought of Mitchell hooking up with Suzan behind her back-while they were still together, no less-and now Suzan''s belly already showing, made Effie feel physically ill.

    All those years of her youth-what a waste.

    Lyman came looking for Effie just as she stood there, her mood written inly on her face. His heart clenched, as if an invisible hand had wrapped around his chest and squeezed, making it hard to breathe.

    Even though Effie was his now, Lyman still lived in constant fear of losing her.

    Who would have guessed that, in this marriage, it was always Lyman¡ªaloof, proud Lyman-who was hopelessly in love?

    Just then, he saw Effie shake her head as if to clear it, a smile slowly returning to her face.

    Seeing her smile, Lyman''s own lips curled up unconsciously, and he found himself smiling too.

    It was as if the clouds had finally parted in his heart and the sun was shining through atst.

 Chapter 182

    He strode toward Effie.

    Effie heard the steady footsteps and instantly thought of Lyman. When she turned around, there he was-Lyman, impossibly handsome, his presence overwhelming as always. She couldn''t help but fall for him all over again.

    Lyman caught her looking at him, her gaze unwavering, eyes shining like stars caught beneath the surface of water-bright, mesmerizing, impossible to resist. His heart fluttered at the sight.

    Without hesitation, he closed the distance and stopped by her side.

    Effie greeted him with a radiant smile, one so warm it seemed to chase away every shadow in Lyman''s heart. "What are you doing out here? Weren''t you talking with Grandma?"

    Effie had noticed that her grandmother and Lyman seemed to have something to discuss, so she''d intentionally stepped outside to give them a little privacy.

    Remembering what Grandma had said to Effie, Lyman chuckled. "She sent me out to keep youpany. Said there''s nothing left to talk about with a clueless kid like me."

    Effie shot him a look and nudged him yfully. "Nonsense. Grandma would never say that."

    Lymanughed, slipping his arms around her. "Then what would she say?"

    Effie''s answer was certain. "With her personality, she''d never say something like that."

    Not everyone understood Grandma the way Effie did. Grandma had always been there for her, ever since she was a child.

    She was the very image of an old-worlddy-elegant, impably raised thanks to a privileged upbringing. Even when her family fell on hard times, she nevershed out at Grandpa. She faced life''s hardships with dignity and strength, never losing herposure.

    How could a woman like that ever say something so careless?

    Lyman and Effieughed together as they walked off, lost in their own world.

    From the shadows, Mitchell stepped out, watching their retreating figures. His eyes darkened, sharp as steel, as if he wished he could pierce them both with a look.

    How could this be? Effie had only just broken up with him-how could she and Lyman be so close already?

    Suzan watched Mitchell''s expression twist with anger, a sly smile curling on her lips. That was exactly the reaction she''d hoped for.

    She''d known Mitchell would lose his temper when he saw Effie with Lyman. That''s why she''d called him over-she wanted him to give up on Effie, once and for all. Only when Mitchell let Effie gopletely could Suzan truly have him to herself.

    "Mitchell, how could my sister fall for someone else so fast? Did she ever really love you? Or was she with Mr. Etheridge all along "

    "What did you just say?"

    Mitchell suddenly turned, pinning Suzan with a bloodshot, furious re-like a wounded animal, dangerous and wild.

    Suzan was startled, the words dying in her throat. "Mitchell... I¡ª¡±

    "Shut up!"

    Like a man possessed, Mitchell lunged at her, wrapping one hand around her neck and lifting her nearly off the ground.

    Suzan had never seen this side of him. Fear rooted her to the spot, unable to even struggle.

    Mitchell''s voice was ice-cold. "Shut your mouth. Whatever happens between me and Effie is none of your business."

    "Mitchell, what are you doing?"

    Mrs. Lloyd-Adeline-came running, frantic. It took all her pleading to get Mitchell to release Suzan.

    Suzan copsed to the floor, legs trembling so badly she couldn''t stand. Shended hard, coughing violently, lungs burning fromck of air.

    For a moment, she''d truly thought she''d die-her chest felt like it might explode.

    "Mitchell, do you even realize what you just did?!" Adeline snapped, her voice shaking with anger.

 Chapter 183

    "Can''t you just make some allowances for Suzan? She''s pregnant, after all."

    Adeline shot Mitchell a sharp look. She had her own opinions about Suzan getting pregnant before marriage, but the fact was, Suzan was carrying the Lloyd family''s child. Once the baby was born, he would be the heir, the first grandson- something those bastards outside could neverpare to.

    She''d told Mitchell before: be patient, be gentle with Suzan.

    He''d agreed without protest, but now he was causing trouble again.

    Did he think it had been easy for her, holding onto the title of Mrs. Lloyd all these years? She''d done it all for Mitchell.

    "Aunt Adeline, this really isn''t Mitchell''s fault," Suzan said, catching her breath. She slowly lifted her head, eyes shimmering with unshed tears, looking heartbreakingly fragile.

    "Oh, sweetheart, you''re so considerate. Even now, you''re still speaking up for Mitchell."

    Seeing Suzan like this, Mitchell felt his anger ebb away.

    He reached down to help Suzan up from the floor, guilt weighing on him. ¡°I''m sorry. I lost my temper just now."

    The sight of Lyman and Effie together had made him lose his head for a moment.

    Suzan''s heart was still full of resentment, but she forced a gentle smile for Mitchell. "It''s fine. I''m not angry with you. It was my fault, I shouldn''t have said what I did."

    The more gracious Suzan acted, the guiltier Mitchell felt.

    She knew exactly how to y to his weaknesses-showing a little vulnerability always made him ache for her even more.

    "I''m sorry," he murmured again.

    After Suzan was back in her hospital room, she didn''t make a scene. Instead, she told Mitchell that if he had things to take care of, he could go¡ªshe could look after herself.

    Of course, Mitchell couldn''t really leave her alone in the hospital.

    Adeline had brought over a variety of light broths and soups. The doctor had said Suzan needed to recover, but nothing too rich-just something gentle and nourishing.

    Early that morning, Adeline had sent the housekeeper to the market to buy a plump old hen. She''d made sure every bit of fat and skin was removed before simmering it into a delicate, clear broth.

    Seeing that Mitchell had upset Suzan, Adeline insisted that he feed her the soup himself.

    Suzan knew her current treatment was all thanks to the child she was carrying.

    But she enjoyed every minute of it. This was what she deserved-why should she refuse?

    Maybe it was the pregnancy, or maybe it was the sleepless night before, but after finishing her soup, Suzan soon drifted off to sleep.

    Mitchell got ready to drive Adeline home, and she used the opportunity to lecture him in the car.

    "Suzan''s baby couldn''t havee at a better time. Even if you don''t care for her, you''d better take good care of that child she''s carrying. Once the baby''s here, we can talk about the rest."

    Everyone in high society knew the unspoken rule: keep the child, forget the mother if you must.

    Mitchell understood what Adeline meant. He offered a distracted, "Yeah," in reply.

    After dropping Adeline off, Mitchell didn''t return to Suzan''s ward right away.

    He noticed a fruit shop and a health food store across from the hospital and suddenly had an idea.

    Using his status as Effie''s fianc¨¦, he quickly learned that Effie''s grandmother had been hospitalized after a fall. When he found the room, only the olddy was there, watching TV.

    He hadn''t expected Lyman to pull strings for someone like her-a powerless, ordinary old woman, yet she was in the hospital''s best private room.

    He knocked, then stepped inside.

    Effie''s grandmother saw Mitchell and her smile froze.

    Her voice was cool and distant. "Why are you here?"

 Chapter 184

    Although Effie had never told her grandmother the real reason she broke up with Mitchell, the old woman had picked up bits and pieces from the neighborhood gossip.

    Most of the folks living nearby were retirees-elderly men and women who loved nothing more than sharing thetest tidbits over coffee or while tending their gardens. Word got around that someone had seen Effie''s boyfriend strolling downtown, hand in hand with another woman. Her grandmother immediately guessed that a third party hade between Effie and Mitchell.

    Like her mother Adriana, Effie was someone who couldn''t tolerate even the smallest betrayal.

    The next time her grandmother saw Mitchell, her warmth had vanished, reced by a cool, polite distance.

    Mitchell noticed the change. She''d always greeted him with genuine enthusiasm before. He had no idea she''d already weighed everything in her mind and seen through him. She knew Mitchell had never truly respected the Spencer family, not since their fortunes had faded.

    In all the years Mitchell and Effie had been together, he''d rarely bothered to visit. The old woman had grown used to it. As the saying goes, people don''t just drop by for no reason-Mitchell clearly had an agenda today.

    "Mr. Lloyd, to what do we owe the pleasure of your visit to my hospital room?" her grandmother asked, her tone measured.

    Mitchell forced an awkward smile. He couldn''t help but notice how different she was now so much less weing than before.

    "I heard you had a fall, Grandma, so I thought I''de by to check on you."

    "That''s very thoughtful of you," she replied, her voice polite but distant. "I appreciate your concern, but at my age, I don''t have much energy for visitors. Perhaps you should go now."

    It was clear-she wanted him gone.

    But Mitchell wasn''t ready to give up. He nced around the room, his eyes lingering on the bathroom door. Maybe Effie was in there? He had so much he wanted to say to her.

    ¡°Effie isn''t here, Mr. Lloyd. Please, you should leave," her grandmother said, her tone still cool but unmistakably dismissive.

    Mitchell lingered a moment longer, but not wanting to push his luck, finally turned and left.

    Meanwhile, Effie had just walked Lyman out. He''d gotten a call from his assistant -something urgent at the office needed his attention. Though neither of them wanted to part, Lyman had no choice. Before he left, he leaned down and gave Effie a gentle kiss on the forehead, then headed off to his car.

    Effie''s heart felt as if someone had spilled a whole jar of honey inside her-she was positively glowing.

    She turned to make her way back to her grandmother''s room, only to run into Grangering down the hallway.

    Granger''s face lit up when he saw her. He hurried over, barely containing his excitement. "Effie! What a coincidence, running into you here!"

    Effie was momentarily surprised, then remembered that Nita had mentioned Granger had stayed on to work at a hospital in Neo-Arcadia after returning from studying abroad. She''d never asked which hospital-truth be told, she hadn''t cared enough to find out. Effie had never been interested in Granger, so he''d barely registered on her radar.

    Still, what a coincidence-he worked here.

    She kept her expression neutral. "Yeah, it is."

    "What brings you to the hospital? Are you feeling okay?" Granger asked, his concern obvious.

    Effie shook her head. "No, I''m fine. My grandmother had a fall and she''s been admitted."

    Granger''s face grew serious. "Older people aren''t like us¡ªyounger folks bounce back, but for them, a fall can be serious. Would you like me to take a look at her?"

    Effie was about to refuse, but then thought better of it. Granger was an excellent doctor, after all-it couldn''t hurt. She nodded her agreement.

    The two of them started down the corridor together, just as a familiar figure approached from the other end...

 Chapter 185

    "Effie."

    Mitchell''s eyes darkened, his face so stormy you could almost wring water from it.

    He closed the distance between them in a few quick strides. ¡°Effie, care to exin yourself?"

    It wasn''t just suspicion getting the better of him-Effie''s behavior really was out of line.

    A moment ago she was with Lyman, and now she was arm in arm with another pretty boy.

    He''d always been sure of himself, convinced that as long as Effie was with him, she''d never look at another man-he thought his charm was more than enough.

    But seeing Effie walking so intimately with Granger, he felt like his lungs might burst from anger.

    Suzan''s words echoed in his mind: Was Effie really so shameless, seeing other men even while she was with him...?

    Effie looked at Mitchell, finding his presence utterly baffling. When she needed him, he was always the one who never showed up.

    Now that she no longer needed him, wanted nothing to do with him, he kept appearing out of nowhere.

    Effie walked straight past Mitchell without a word. Granger gave Mitchell a curious nce, then followed after her.

    Mitchell''s temper red. He called out loudly, "Effie, are you incapable of surviving without a man? Impressive time management, I''ll give you that."

    His voice dripped with sarcasm.

    Effie stopped, her gaze turning icy, a sh of anger in her eyes. She turned to Mitchell. "Your heart is filthy, and so are your assumptions. The only disgusting person here is you, not me."

    For a moment, Mitchell was speechless. After a pause, he tried again. "If... that''s not it, then exin."

    Effie''s voice was cold. "Exin what? Why should I exin anything to you? What are you to me?

    If I owed anyone an exnation, it would be my husband-not you."

    With that, she turned and walked away.

    Mitchell stood rooted to the spot, as if struck by lightning.

    Did he really have no ce in her life anymore?

    Effie nced at Granger and said, "Sorry you had to see that."

    Granger shook his head. "We''ve all got a past, don''t we?"

    Still, Granger understood the real meaning behind Effie''s words. She hadn''t just been speaking to Mitchell-she was speaking to him, too.

    Her message was clear: she was married.

    But Granger wasn''t ready to give up.

    He''d looked into it-Lyman might be with Effie now, but there''d been no public announcement, so who knew what was really going on?

    Besides, the Etheridge family was a pir of high society. If Lyman and Effie had actually gotten married, there would''ve been avish wedding, not this radio silence.

    Maybe Effie was just assuming her rtionship with Lyman made her his wife.

    He still had a shot.

    Just then, a garbage truck loaded with medical waste came barreling toward Effie. Lost in thought, she didn''t notice it at first.

    When she finally snapped out of it, the truck was almost on top of her, and she instinctively stepped back, trying to get out of the way.

    But someone moved faster. A hand seized her arm and yanked her aside.

    Effie crashed hard into Granger''s chest.

    For a moment, she could hear his heart pounding-steady, strong.

    "You okay?" Granger''s voice was warm and low, resonating just above her head.

 Chapter 186

    Effie shoved Granger away with more force than necessary, took a steadying breath, and addressed him withposure. "Thank you."

    Granger flexed his fingers, remembering the softness of Effie when she''d stumbled into his arms, and the faint trace of her perfume that lingered in the air. Now that she''d stepped back, it felt as if something had been ripped from his chest, leaving a hollow ache behind.

    He managed a crooked smile. ¡°It''s nothing. Really, I was just doing what anyone should."

    Across the hall, hidden in the shadows, Isabel watched the scene unfold. Her face twisted with resentment as she muttered through gritted teeth, "She got lucky this time. Next time, she won''t be so fortunate."

    Isabel was at the hospital herself for a dressing change.

    Carole, clutching her chest, eyed Isabel''s bandaged arm with a lingering sense of dread. She kept her voice low, "You nearly gave me a heart attack, kiddo. Good thing that hallway isn''t under surveince-if anyone had seen you shove that trash can, we''d be in real trouble."

    Carole rubbed her forehead, her worry lines deepening. Lately, nothing seemed to be going right¡ªmaybe she ought to take Isabel to church, light a candle, and pray for a change of luck.

    Isabel''s lips curled into a sly smile, a glint of scheming determination in her eyes. "Just wait. After what Effie did to me, I''m looking forward to the show."

    Carole shot her a worried look. "Don''t do anything stupid."

    Isabel shrugged. "Rx. I promise, nothing''s going to happen to me this time." Still, Carole''s concern was in on her face.

    Meanwhile, Effie led Granger to her grandmother''s hospital room, where she introduced him with a gentle smile. Granger greeted her grandmother politely, then turned his attention to the stack of CT scans at the bedside.

    "Granger, how is she?" Effie asked.

    He replied, "It''s not too serious. But at her age, recovery takes longer-she''ll need someone around to help her out. Broken bones take time to heal, so it''s best if she stays in bed and rests. Moving around too much could cause more problems."

    Her grandmother blinked, momentarily speechless at Granger''s stern bedside manner.

    Granger shot Effie a quick wink, as if to say, See? I handled it.

    Effie grinned and turned to her grandmother. "You heard the doctor, Grandma. You have to rest and do as he says."

    Her grandmother relented with a smile. "Alright, I''ll be good this time-stay in bed, recover, just as the doctor orders. I still want to help you raise your little ones, you know. My future great-grandchild is going to be so cute-with fair skin and big round eyes. Just imagine!"

    Granger''s smile faltered, suddenly at a loss for words.

    He realized both Effie and her grandmother were sharp as tacks their words were pointed, and he was the target.

    He cleared his throat. "If there''s nothing else, I''d better get going."

    "I''ll walk you out," Effie offered.

    "No need, really," he insisted, nearly making a break for the door.

    Effie and her grandmother exchanged a look. Her grandmother''s eyes sparkled mischievously as she said, "Effie, sometimes a romance is just trouble, not destiny. Don''t let it be a stumbling block in your life."

    Effie couldn''t help butugh. Grandma was calling Granger a bad apple without missing a beat. For all her years, nothing ever escaped her sharp eyes.

    "I know, Grandma," Effie replied warmly.

    Just then, Effie''s phone buzzed. She nced at the screen-her mother-inw, Lindy, was calling.

    "Hi, Mom?"

    "Effie,e home for dinner tonight," Lindy said.

    There was something odd in Lindy''s tone, and a sudden sense of dread settled in Effie''s stomach.

 Chapter 187

    "But-"

    Effie was about to refuse, but her grandmother gently interrupted, "Effie, if you have things to take care of, go ahead. I''m just lying here anyway. If I need anything, I''ll call the nurse."

    Effie understood

    her grandmother only wanted to spare her. She didn''t want Effie, newly married into the Etheridge family, to get into any big conflicts with them.

    Effie murmured her agreement and hung up.

    "Grandma, I''ll find someone to stay with you, all right?"

    Lyman had already arranged for a nurse, but her grandmother had insisted she could look after herself. The truth was, she just hated the idea of them spending money on her.

    People of that generation were always like that. Effie had long since grown used to it.

    But this time, her grandmother didn''t refuse. She didn''t want to make things harder for Effie.

    Just as Effie was about to head home, her phone rang. It was Lyman. "Wait for me at the hospital. I''lle pick you up."

    "Okay," Effie replied, heading downstairs to wait by the hospital entrance.

    A familiar Porsche pulled up in front of her.

    Even before the window rolled down, Effie already knew who it was.

    She turned her face away, her expression frosty.

    The window slid down-it was, as expected, Mitchell.

    "Effie, where are you headed? Let me give you a ride."

    Effie thought Mitchell was just impossible. When he had her, he didn''t care; now that he''d lost her, he just couldn''t let it go.

    She couldn''t even be bothered to acknowledge him, not sparing him a nce.

    Mitchell frowned, annoyance flickering in his eyes.

    "Effie, get in the car!"

    He called out again, but now his voice was edged with irritation. It wasn''t an invitation-it was amand.

    What, was she supposed to feel grateful for his attention?

    Just then, another car honked behind Mitchell.

    Effie saw it was Lyman''s car and couldn''t help the smile tugging at her lips.

    She walked toward Lyman, and as he saw her approach, he broke into an answering grin.

    He got out and took her hand, leading her to the passenger seat. He opened the door for her, shielding her head so she wouldn''t bump it, and after she settled in, he buckled her seatbelt himself.

    Only after making sure everything was in ce did he walk around and get behind the wheel.

    Lyman''s gentle care, so deliberate and considerate, yed out right in front of Mitchell, who watched from a distance, his emotions twisting.

    So Effie was the kind of woman who deserved to be treated like this.

    Had he ever done anything like that for her?

    Even when he''d chased her before, he''d never managed such tenderness.

    Mitchell stared after Lyman''s car as it pulled away, scoffing under his breath, "It''s just a novelty, that''s all. Lyman''s the type who''s been with every kind of woman. Effie''s just someone new; he''ll get bored soon enough, and when he does, she''ll be tossed aside without a second thought."

    He didn''t even notice the jealousy contorting his face, making him look nothing like his usual self.

    Meanwhile, Effie felt a gentle warmth bloom in her chest at Lyman''s careful attention. She nced at him as he drove the sharp line of his jaw, the intensity of his profile, both captivating.

    Lyman felt her gaze. He turned his head, catching Effie staring at him, her longshes fluttering like butterfly wings about to take flight.

    If he weren''t driving, he''d have kissed her right then.

    Effie snapped out of her reverie, suddenly aware of Lyman''s deep, maic eyes

    locked on hers, as if he might draw her inpletely.

    She swallowed, flustered. "Eyes on the road."

    "Alright."

    Lyman turned his attention back to driving.

    Effie could feel the blood rushing to her cheeks, her whole face burning.

 Chapter 188

    It was probably the first time she''d ever gazed at a man with such obvious infatuation,pletely zoning out for so long. But honestly, who could me her? Lyman was just unfairly gorgeous-so striking it was impossible not to sneak a few extra nces.

    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 betweenughing and crying. "Now you''re making me even more anxious."

    Lyman let out a softugh. "Guess I''m not very good atfort, huh?"

    Effie winked at him. "You''re fine, really."

    "Oh?" Lyman nced 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 mbered 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." She nced gratefully at Lyman, warmth blooming in her chest.

    She remembered how carefully she''d chosen gifts for Mrs. Lloyd-Adeline- hoping to win her over. But neither Adeline nor the others had so much as cracked a smile; even Mitchell had told her not to bother next time, since no one cared for her efforts anyway.

    This time was another test. If the Etheridges reacted the same way, well... she''d know where she stood.

    "What''d you get?" Fidelia asked, reaching for the bags.

    But before she could dig in, Marcia shot her a warning look. "Fidelia."

    Fidelia, though clearly annoyed, stepped aside with perfect manners.

    Effie couldn''t help but notice: when it came to good manners, the Etheridges were in a whole different leaguepared to the Lloyds.

    Effie started handing out the gifts. Each one was practical rather than extravagant, but somehow, she''d managed to pick out exactly what each person would appreciate.

    Bancroft''s present was a block of ink-a gorgeous, handcrafted one. The deep ck sheen was wless, the texture smooth and bubble-free, and the scent was pure andforting.

    Bancroft''s eyes lit up. He picked up the ink block, feeling its reassuring weight, turning it over in his palm. It made a crisp, satisfying clink, like bamboo.

    "Excellent ink-truly excellent!" he eximed.

    Bancroft had seen his share of fine things; if even he was impressed, it had to be the real deal.

    "Effie, where''d you find this?" Uncle Healy asked.

    Effie replied honestly, "It wasn''t actually from a store-a friend gave it to me. I thought Grandpa might like it, so I brought it along."

    She didn''t embellish the story. Some people would have gone on and on about how hard it was to find, just to boost their own image.

    Her straightforwardness made everyone see her in a new light.

    Of course, not everyone''s thoughts about Effie were so simple.

 Chapter 189

    Uncle Healy couldn''t help thinking that Effie must be kicking herself with regret right now. She didn''t recognize the true value of what she had, mistaking a pearl for a pebble, and that''s why she gave such a precious ink set to Bancroft at this kind of asion.

    It wasn''t that Effie''s gift to the old man was a bad choice-it was that she''d picked the wrong moment.

    But Effie herself wasn''t burdened with suchplicated thoughts. She simply thought the ink was nice, so she gave it away.

    The gifts Effie gave afterward were all quite impressive, though. Everyone ended up with something they genuinely loved.

    Fidelia looked at Effie, half-grumbling, half-incredulous. "How in the world did you know I liked The Stormriders? And this album''s been out of print for years!"

    Effie had gifted Fidelia the debut album from The Stormriders-a band whose first record came out a decade ago and disappeared from the shelves long since.

    These days, an original copy was practically a collector''s holy grail, selling for thousands at auction-if you could even find one.

    But Effie''s gift went beyond that: the record was signed by all five band members, with the lead singer''s autograph right in the center.

    Clutching the album to her chest as if afraid Effie might snatch it back, Fidelia stared at her, wide-eyed.

    Effie offered an apologetic smile. "Sorry-I overheard your music while passing your room during the holidays, so I guessed you were a fan. I love them too, actually-I''ve collected a bunch of their records over the years."

    Fidelia was stunned. She''d never expected to find a fellow fan.

    The Stormriders were old news by now; when they''d started out, the band members were barely out of their teens, but now the oldest had to be pushing forty. For someone Fidelia''s age, that was practically ancient.

    Mentioning the band''s name around her peers usually earned only nk stares.

    So Fidelia couldn''t help thinking Effie''s words sounded a little too calcted, like she was trying to win them over on purpose.

    She must be really scheming, Fidelia thought, going to all this trouble just to please us.

    Hmph. But she shouldn''t think that a few thoughtful gifts could erase everything she''d done in the past.

    Fidelia''s lips curled in a secret, satisfied smile. Just wait-things were about to get interesting.

    Bancroft, in high spirits, called everyone to the table. They took their seats in order.

    Conversation was set aside for mealtime; the Etheridge family kept strict traditions, and the dining room fell into afortable hush.

    Effie picked up her fork with extra care, feeling a little on edge. But with Lyman beside her, she didn''t feel uneasy-in fact, she found his presence reassuring. She actually enjoyed the lively, bustling atmosphere of a big family dinner.

    Still, her mind wandered. The peace at the table felt less like calm and more like the quiet before a storm.

    Suddenly, her vision blurred for a moment. When she looked down, she saw Lyman had ced a perfectly peeled shrimp on her te her favorite.

    He hadn''t needed to do it himself; if he''d only said a word, one of the staff would have taken care of it. But Lyman seemed to enjoy doing these small things for her. He liked making sure everything was just right for Effie.

    Some of the other rtives were clearly less than pleased by the disy, but nobody dared say a word the Etheridge house rules were not to be trifled with.

    "Thank you," Effie whispered, leaning closer to Lyman.

    Lyman nudged his chin toward her and replied in a gentle voice, "Don''t mention it. That''s what I''m here for. But from now on, don''t thank me otherwise, I''ll get upset."

    He gestured subtly across the table. Following his gaze, Effie saw her father-in-w, Friedman, patiently peeling shrimp for her mother-inw, Lindy.

    Lindy epted it with a sweet smile, beaming up at Friedman.

    Effie paused, caught off guard by the warmth of the moment. Something inside her shifted.

    So this is what marriage could look like, even after all those years.

    Right then, she understood the old saying: if the original is true to itself, every copy will be true as well.

 Chapter 190

    Just as Effie had predicted, after dinner Bancroft suggested everyone move to the living room for some tea and conversation.

    Fidelia nced over at Effie, a flicker of hope in her eyes.

    But, unexpectedly, the evening passed without Bancroft bringing up anything important.

    Fidelia was growing restless.

    Isabel had already messaged her earlier, asking for updates, but with Bancroft keeping quiet, Fidelia had nothing to report.

    She was just about to speak up when Marcia gently pressed her arm, silencing her.

    Confused, Fidelia looked at Marcia, lips parting as if to protest, but Marcia only shook her head, saying nothing more.

    Despite her temper, Fidelia always listened to Marcia.

    Finally, Bancroft stood up. "It''s gettingte. Everyone should head home and get some rest."

    He paused, then added, "Lyman, you and your family,e with me to the study."

    "Alright," Lyman replied.

    Effie''s heart clenched. Instinctively, she tightened her grip on Lyman''s hand.

    He squeezed her hand in return, and the anxious pounding in her chest began to settle.

    A gleam of excitement shed in Fidelia''s eyes. She automatically started to follow Effie and the others, only for Marcia to pull her back.

    If Bancroft had told everyone else to go rest, it clearly meant he didn''t want them hearing what came next.

    If Fidelia insisted on tagging along now, she''d only end up angering Bancroft.

    Marcia was annoyed, but she knew better than to disobey.

    Once the study door closed, Uncle Healy and his family drifted over, curiosity written all over their faces. Fidelia thought-this is my chance!

    She hurried after them.

    This time, Marcia didn''t bother stopping her she followed, too.

    But the old man''s study was soundproofed to perfection. No matter how hard they strained, they couldn''t hear a thing from inside.

    Inside, with the door closed, Effie felt the mood shift instantly. Her palms were mmy with nervous sweat.

    Bancroft handed her his phone. "I''m sure this is just a misunderstanding. Just exin, and I''ll believe you."

    Effie nced at the photo on the screen, her face registering pure shock.

    When had she and Granger ever embraced like that?

    Then it clicked-the hospital. The garbage truck that hade barreling out of nowhere!

    She''d tried to get out of the way, but Granger had pulled her aside at thest second.

    Effie exined everything, then looked over at Lyman.

    She didn''t care what anyone else thought; she just needed to know what Lyman believed.

    Lyman frowned slightly, taking the phone from her hand.

    He erged the photo, staring at it for a long moment, as if he were seeing it for the first time.

    Effie didn''t realize that, in fact, this *was* the first time Lyman had seen the picture.

    Her heart clenched again, her breathing shallow and slow. Did he not trust her?

    Life had finally started feeling normal, and now this.

    Who was trying to mess with her?

    Suddenly, Lyman pointed at the photo. "Grandpa, why didn''t you look at this more closely before jumping to conclusions? And why keep it from me and my wife? If this nonsense leads to a fight between us if we end up divorced-I''ll just stay single for the rest of my life!"

    "You-you-" Bancroft was stunned. He''d never heard Lyman speak so forcefully before.

    Ever since Effie hade into his life, Lyman had changed.

    Lyman shot him a look. "Why are you looking at me? Look at the photo."

 Chapter 191

    Bancroft cleared his throat, an awkward flicker in his eyes before he finally looked at the photograph.

    He hadn''t paid it much attention before-just caught a glimpse and felt a rush of anger-but now that Lyman had erged the image, he saw something that made his heart skip.

    At first nce, it looked as if Effie was pressed tightly against Granger. But now Bancroft could see that Effie''s hand was lifted in front of her chest, creating a clear barrier between them.

    Even in a tense moment, her instincts had kicked in; she clearly didn''t want any physical contact with Granger. That told Bancroft all he needed to know about the real story behind the photo.

    He was certain everyone else understood, too¡ªthe person who snapped the picture had an agenda.

    Effie let out a quiet sigh of relief. Thank goodness the Etheridge family was reasonable. If this had been the Lloyds, there would have been a full-blown scene before she could get a word in edgewise.

    She paused, a little surprised at herself. Why was she evenparing the two families? The Lloyds weren''t even in the same league as the Etheridges.

    "Grandpa, now that everything''s cleared up, if there''s nothing else, I''ll take my wife home," Lyman said, turning to Bancroft.

    Bancroft, now thoroughly embarrassed, waved a hand to dismiss them, signaling that they could go.

    Just as they were about to leave, Lindy spoke up. "Wait a moment."

    Effie froze, worried Lindy might have something else to add.

    But Lindy''s voice was gentle, filled with concern. "Effie, why did you go to the hospital? Are you feeling unwell? Did you see a doctor? What did they say? If you''re not feeling well, you have to tell us, okay? Don''t keep it bottled up." Effie looked up and saw the genuine worry on Lindy''s face. Her heart softened. She''d overthought it-Lindy was just worried about her.

    "It wasn''t for me," Effie replied quickly. "I''m fine. My grandmother slipped and broke a bone, so she had to be admitted for a few days."

    "Why didn''t you tell us Mrs. Spencer was hurt?" Lindy said, ncing at the clock. "We should go visit her right now. Well-actually, it''s gettingte. Elderly people need their rest. We''ll go see her tomorrow instead."

    "That''s really not necessary," Effie said gently. "It''s not too serious; she''ll be discharged in a few days."

    Effie knew her grandmother valued privacy and wouldn''t want a crowd showing up at her hospital room.

    Lindy smiled and insisted, "You and Lyman are married now; we''re family. There''s no need for formalities. We care about Mrs. Spencer just as you care about us."

    With Lindy putting it that way, Effie couldn''t refuse. "Alright, thank you."

    Hand in hand, Effie and Lyman stepped out into the hallway. As soon as they opened the door, several figures darted past them in a blur.

    They moved too quickly for Effie or Lyman to catch their faces, but it wasn''t hard to guess who they were.

    Lyman squeezed Effie''s hand. "Feeling worn out?"

    Their family looked harmonious on the surface, but beneath it all, things were messy-especially in recent years. As Lyman had taken over the entirepany, his two uncles had started getting restless.

    Effie met his eyes with a warm smile. "Not at all. As long as I''m with you, I''m happy."

    She meant every word, even though their marriage had been sudden and they hadn''t been together long.

 Chapter 192

    But she realized, almost without noticing, that she had already fallen in love with this man-stoic on the outside, but gentle and considerate beneath the surface.

    What she didn''t know was that Lyman''s tenderness and care belonged to her, and her alone.

    Lyman''s heart leapt with joy when he heard Effie''s words.

    If they weren''t at the old family estate, he would have swept her up, pressed her against the wall, and kissed her breathless, iming every part of her that was his.

    Watching the intimacy between Lyman and Effie, Fidelia''s face darkened, her expression so sour it looked as if she could wring water from it.

    She clenched her fists, her voice cold and sharp. "Effie, you took what wasn''t yours and you don''t even feel guilty? How can you live with yourself?"

    "Lyman, Effie, it''s gettingte," Lindy interjected, her tone warm and diplomatic. "Why don''t you both stay here tonight? Tomorrow, we can visit Mrs. Spencer together. How does that sound?"

    Lyman didn''t answer immediately. Instead, he turned to Effie, knowing her gentle nature and how much she cared about others'' feelings.

    He was certain she''d agree straightaway, not wanting to disappoint Lindy. But Lyman could always read the subtle shifts in Effie''s expression-if she was reluctant, he''d be the one to refuse.

    Finally, Effie spoke up. "Alright, that sounds good."

    Lyman watched her closely, searching her face for any hint of hesitation. When he found none, he let the matter rest.

    Because they were at the family estate, both Lyman and Effie were exceedingly careful around each other all evening, the restraint leaving them feeling a bit stifled.

    "Tonight, let''s wait until we''re home before we..." Lyman leaned in, his breath warm against Effie''s ear as he whispered the rest.

    A shiver ran down Effie''s spine, electricity tingling all the way to her scalp.

    She quickly slipped out of his arms, clutching her phone. "I-I need to call my grandmother," she stammered, trying topose herself.

    "Of course," Lyman replied, a fond smile tugging at his lips, his eyes full of affection.

    Effie stepped into the garden and video-called her grandmother. When the call connected, Effie noticed someone in the background wearing the Etheridge family''s staff uniform.

    A trace of suspicion flickered in her eyes, but before she could ask, her

    grandmother spoke first. "Effie, I woke upst night and saw people from the Etheridge family hade over. There were several of them, and they took very good care of me. I sent you a message-did you see it?"

    Effie had just stepped out and hadn''t checked her messages yet.

    Last night, Lyman had been so enthusiastic that the moment they got to their room, he''d pulled her into his arms, leaving her no time to react-let alone check her phone.

    "I''lle by with my mother-inw to visit youter," Effie said.

    "Well... alright," her grandmother replied, understanding that it was only proper for Effie''s mother-inw to visit. It wasn''t her ce to refuse.

    Older generations valued traditions and etiquette, and her grandmother respected that.

    "They already brought over lots of vitamins and healthy foods. Tell them not to bring too much next time-there''s only so much an olddy like me can eat," her grandmother added.

    "Okay, I understand," Effie replied.

    Truthfully, she knew that even if she promised her grandmother, the arrangements would be up to Lindy. But she was sure Lindy would handle everything perfectly.

    "Young madam, Lady Lindy would like to see you," a maid approached and announced politely.

 Chapter 193

    Effie didn''t suspect anything and figured Lindy probably needed her for something, so she followed the maid without a second thought.

    But it didn''t take long for her to realize something was off.

    Instead of leading her to Lindy''s room, the maid took her out to the garden, stopping beside the decorative rock formation and koi pond.

    The pond was beautifully designed, with fresh water circting constantly. The koi glided through the water, their vibrant colors sparkling in the sunlight, each fish shimmering like a living jewel.

    Effie had heard that nearly every koi in this pond was an award-winner, prized for their dazzling colors and perfect shapes. Even someone with no eye for such things would be impressed by the sight.

    People with money loved their little traditions, especially families like the Etheridges, who seemed to take everything to the next level.

    She''d been here a few times before, but always too busy trying to fit in to really take a look. Now, seeing the pond up close, she had to admit it was pretty stunning.

    Just then, a shadow moved beside the artificial rockwork.

    Effie''s gaze shifted from the pond to the figure stepping into view.

    So her hunch was right¡ªit wasn''t Lindy who''d called for her. Someone else had set this up.

    Effie arched an eyebrow at Fidelia and said, "If you wanted to talk to me, you could''ve just asked directly. Why pretend it was my mother-inw?"

    Fidelia''s eyes narrowed, a murderous glint shing in them. She let out a cold huff. ¡°If I''d called you myself, would you havee?"

    "Nope," Effie replied, crisp and unhesitating.

    Fidelia was so angry her chest visibly heaved. She stormed up to Effie and snapped, "Are you out of your mind?"

    Effie shot back, "I think you just had too much salt at breakfast-you must be bored out of your skull."

    With that, Effie turned to leave.

    Fidelia gritted her teeth and grabbed Effie''s arm. "Don''t get so smug. You stole something that wasn''t yours and act like you''re the winner. It''s disgusting."

    Effie stared right at her, a sharp light flickering in her eyes.

    For a moment, Fidelia felt as if Effie could see straight through her.

    She clenched her jaw and said, "You took what should''ve been Isabel''s..."

    Now it made sense to Effie: Fidelia was just the messenger, sent to do someone else''s dirty work.

    So that was the feeling she''d had these past few days-someone watching her from the shadows. It had been Fidelia all along.

    Who knew Fidelia and Isabel were such close friends? Still, Fidelia was way too naive, letting herself get yed like this and still thinking she was clever.

    "Took what, exactly? Her secret crush? Or are you saying Isabel and my husband were ever together, and I swooped in and stole him?"

    Fidelia fell silent, caught off guard by Effie''s sharp tongue. For a moment, she didn''t know what to say.

    After all, it wasn''t like Isabel and Lyman had ever actually dated.

    At best, they''d been somewhere between friends and something more¡ªnever quite crossing the line.

    But-

    "But Lyman and Isabel grew up together! If it weren''t for you, they''d be together now!" Fidelia insisted, refusing to back down.

    "Really?" Effie retorted. "If they actually liked each other, don''t you think they would''ve gotten together by now? Maybe the reason they haven''t is because they just don''t want to."

    Truthfully, as Effie said this, she felt a pang of guilt.

    She was the only one who knew how much Lyman and Isabel''s rtionship bothered her.

    But there was no way she''d let Fidelia-this little girl-see her falter. So she forced herself to keep her head high, saying what she had to say.

    Thank God Lyman wasn''t here right now. Otherwise, she''d have died of embarrassment.

 Chapter 194

    Effie''s words had clearly struck a nerve-Fidelia''s face twisted with anger as she snapped, "Effie, you wicked woman, go to hell!"

    She shoved Effie hard.

    Caught off guard, Effie stumbled backward.

    A sh of smug satisfaction crossed Fidelia''s eyes, but before she could savor her triumph, Effie''s hand shot out, grabbing her sleeve. The next second, both of them tumbled straight into the ornamental fish pond.

    The pond, designed for aesthetics, was deceptively deep-deep enough that someone who couldn''t swim might well drown.

    Fidelia wasn''t worried; she''d learned to swim when she was little. In the Etheridge family, you didn''t have to be a genius, but ignorance was out of the question. Even if your grades weren''t the best, you were expected to master every skill. Along with swimming, Fidelia could ride horses, arrange flowers, and even brew a perfect cup of tea.

    But what Fidelia didn''t know was that Effie couldn''t swim at all. The moment Effie hit the cold water, she began thrashing in panic, fear tightening every muscle in her body. She clung to Fidelia like a drowning octopus, arms and legs wrapped tight.

    If Fidelia had been on her own, she could have easily made it to the edge. But with Effietched onto her, their soaked clothes dragging them down, she felt as if a thousand-pound weight had been strapped to her back. Forget making it to shore-she could barely get her head above water to breathe. Her lungs screamed for air.

    Several times, Effie''s desperate iling forced Fidelia''s head underwater. As she yed the part of the panicked victim, Effie kept a careful eye on Fidelia''s condition, calcting just how much longer she could keep this up. She figured she''d let go once she thought Fidelia was about to pass out.

    Just then, the sound of hurried footsteps reached them. Effie forced Fidelia under once more, then released her grip and went limp, feigning exhaustion.

    A few figures plunged into the water, pulling both girls out.

    The one cradling Effie was Lyman.

    Pale with worry and barefoot, Lyman didn''t hesitate-he scooped Effie into his arms, ready to rush her to safety.

    Effie coughed violently, spewing up water, but soon she seemed to recover. Lyman finally let out a shaky sigh of relief.

    Fowler and Marcia, Fidelia''s parents, came running up, their faces tight with concern as they saw their daughter, drenched and shivering.

    "What happened here?" Marcia asked, her voice trembling with worry.

    The moment Fidelia spotted her parents, she burst into tears, clutching at them like a lifeline. "Daddy, Mommy, I don''t know what happened. My cousin''s wife just pushed me into the water out of nowhere!"

    Her sobs were raw and desperate. "I was so scared... I thought I''d never see you again..."

    Her cries stabbed at Fowler and Marcia''s hearts like invisible knives.

    Both parents turned to re at Effie.

    Effie was stunned. She hadn''t expected Fidelia to turn the tables and use her!

    She was just about to speak up when Lyman, still holding her, spoke coldly. "Fidelia, are you sure about that? Are you saying Effie pushed you?"

    "I..." Fidelia faltered, avoiding his gaze.

    Lyman''s expression darkened. "Good. There''s a security camera right here. Let''s check the footage."

    Before Fidelia could protest, Lyman had already ordered someone to pull up the video.

    The truth was in: it had been Fidelia who pushed Effie into the pond.

    Marcia squeezed Fidelia''s hand and said gently, ¡°Fidelia, why would you say something like that? You must have been so frightened, you got confused. Isn''t that right?"

    "Don''t worry, sweetheart. Tell me again, what really happened?"

 Chapter 195

    Fowler and Marcia did everything in their power to shield Fidelia. There was no way they''d let her take the me for trying to hurt Effie.

    Realizing what was at stake, Fidelia quickly feigned innocence, nodding and saying, ¡°That''s right. I was just too nervous earlier¡ªI didn''t see clearly."

    Lyman''s voice was calm but firm. ¡°In our family, we care about the truth. You can''t just throw out usations without proof."

    A flush crept up Fidelia''s cheeks, as if she''d been pped.

    "..."

    "But Effie deliberately provoked me! That''s why I got angry and pushed her," Fidelia blurted out, teeth clenched, revealing another bombshell.

    Lyman gave a nomittal "Oh?" and asked, "Is that so? Do you have any evidence?"

    The surveince footage only showed Fidelia pushing Effie. Effie, startled, had tried to grab onto something to steady herself, only to clutch at Fidelia and drag her into the water as well.

    It was an old-fashioned security camera-picture only, no sound.

    Effie spoke up. "I didn''t say anything to provoke her. I was just stating facts, and I can prove it."

    Lyman had backed her up just moments before, but without evidence, people might start iming he was just protecting his own. And as Lyman''s wife, Effie couldn''t bear the thought of anyone¡ªeven family¡ªmisunderstanding him.

    "Earlier, Fidelia lured me here under the pretense that our mother-inw wanted to see me. I thought something was off, so the moment I saw Fidelia, I started recording on my phone," Effie exined.

    Fidelia''s eyes widened in shock. No wonder she''d seen Effie toss her phone aside as she fell so that''s why! So Effie had been prepared for this all along; maybe she''d never really been at Fidelia''s mercy.

    Fidelia''s gaze toward Effie turnedplicated. What a calcting woman! Absolutely disgusting.

    Not that Effie noticed the murderous look Fidelia shot her-she was too busy searching the ground for her phone. When she finally found it, she yed the recording of their conversation.

    "But Lyman and Isabel practically grew up together! If it weren''t for you, they''d definitely be together by now!"

    "Taken what, exactly? Someone I had a crush on? Or are you saying Isabel and my husband were ever actually together, and I just swooped in and stole him?"

    "But Lyman and Isabel practically grew up together! If it weren''t for you, they''d definitely be together by now!"

    "Oh? If he really liked her, don''t you think something would''ve happened between them by now? The only reason they didn''t get together is because there were no feelings there."

    Effie could feel Lyman''s eyes on her-so intense she didn''t dare meet his gaze. She''d sounded so confident when saying those things, but now, with Lyman listening, it almost seemed like she was staking her im over him. The thought made her a little embarrassed.

    What she didn''t know was that Lyman actually loved this side of her-her boldness, her strength.

    He listened, grinning so broadly it looked as if he might startughing out loud.

    But when he turned to Fidelia, his smile vanished, eyes turning cold. "Fidelia, I don''t belong to anyone. And for the record, I''ve never had feelings for Isabel."

    The words hit Fidelia like a bolt of lightning. She shook her head, biting her lip. "No, that can''t be. You always defended Isabel before! Everyone said¡ª"

    "Don''t I defend you, too?" Lyman shot back.

    Fidelia fell silent. Did Lyman feel the same way about Isabel as he did about her? But Isabel had always told her otherwise...

    No, it had to be because Effie was here-Lyman just didn''t want to admit it in front

    of her! She opened her mouth to argue, but Fowler cut her off before she could say another word.

 Chapter 196

    "Fidelia is young, easily swayed by others. She was clearly in the wrong this time, and I''ll make sure to have a serious word with her."

    Before Fidelia could even react, Fowler was already reaching for her arm, ready to whisk her away.

    "Stop right there."

    Suddenly, Bancroft appeared, leaning heavily on his cane as he approached them.

    The moment Bancroft showed up, the entire Fowler family felt as if the sky had fallen.

    He might have been old, but in the Etheridge family, Bancroft''s word was absolute.

    And everyone knew-whether they admitted it or not-that for years now, Bancroft had favored Lyman. It was understandable, really. In all these generations, Lyman was the first true genius to emerge from the Etheridge line, and Bancroft naturally paid him special attention.

    "I know exactly what happened. And you think you can just brush it off by saying you were misled?"

    Bancroft let out a cold huff and tapped his cane sharply against the floor.

    Whenever Bancroft tapped his cane, the whole Etheridge family seemed to tremble.

    It was clear-Bancroft was furious.

    Fowler opened his mouth, wanting to defend his daughter, but the moment he met Bancroft''s piercing gaze, all the words died on his lips and he lowered his head in silence.

    Fidelia, meanwhile, shrank back, barely daring to breathe, looking as fragile as a de of grass in a storm.

    "Fidelia, apologize to your sister-inw," Bancroft said, his tone leaving no room for argument.

    Fidelia''s face twisted in humiliation. She bit her lip and stubbornly stayed silent.

    Marcia watched her, thinking, Silly girl-why are you still being stubborn now of all times?

    She tugged discreetly at Fidelia''s sleeve and whispered, "Fidelia, apologize."

    It didn''t matter who was right or wrong¡ªwhen the old man gave an order, you didn''t question it.

    With a scowl, Fidelia shot Effie a resentful look, her jaw clenched so tightly it seemed her teeth might crack. Forcing the words out, she muttered, "Sorry."

    Effie wasn''t the difficult type, and she could see perfectly well who truly held power in this household. Since Bancroft had already made his position clear, what reason was there to push further?

    "It''s all right," Effie replied, pausing for a moment before adding, "You just believed the wrong person, that''s all. Still, you''re not a child anymore. You need to be more careful about who you trust."

    Effie left it at that everyone here was clever enough to understand her meaning.

    Fidelia seethed inwardly, but there was nothing she could do except swallow her frustration.

    "Effie," Bancroft turned to her now, his stern features softening noticeably. If not for his recent outburst, you''d almost think he was just a kindly old grandfather.

    "If you''re ever treated unfairly, don''t keep it to yourself. Come straight to me. I promise you, I''ll handle it fairly."

    Effie wasn''t naive enough to truly believe Bancroft would always take her side. As the head of the family, his real job was to keep the peace and hold everyone together.

    Still, since he was offering her a way out of this awkward situation, she was more than happy to take it.

    "Thank you, Grandfather."

    "Aren''t you supposed to be visiting your inws at the hospital? When you get there, be sure to give them my regards."

    "I will, Grandfather."

    Once Bancroft had left, Effie finally allowed herself to breathe again.

    She couldn''t take much more of this-she just wanted to get out of there as quickly as possible.

    After changing into a clean set of clothes, she got ready to head to the hospital.

    Friedman and Lindy, sensing the mood, decided not to y the third wheel between Effie and Lyman-and besides, neither of them wanted to get stuck babysitting the younger ones. They took their own car.

    Effie and Lyman would ride together.

    As Lyman drove, Effie sat quietly beside him, ncing his way now and then, clearly wanting to say something but holding back.

 Chapter 197

    Lyman caught Effie''s gaze, set his tablet aside, and reached for her hand, giving it a gentle, reassuring pat. "What''s on your mind?" he asked softly.

    Effie hesitated, then said, "Do you think-Grandpa''s getting on in years, but he''s sharp as ever. Has he figured it out?"

    Figured out that she could swim all along, but pretended she couldn''t-and had nearly pushed Fidelia into the water.

    Effie had sensed it earlier. There had been a sudden, piercing look in Bancroft''s eyes when he nced her way. She''d been wondering ever since if he''d seen through her act.

    Lyman patted her hand again, his touchforting. Effie was right-Bancroft had indeed noticed. No matter how well she''d covered her tracks, the old man was not one to be easily fooled.

    He said nothing, but that silence made Effie''s heart sink. This might be it for her.

    Lyman noticed her anxiety and leaned in to reassure her. "It''s alright. If Grandpa didn''t call you out on the spot, it means he''s letting it slide. We don''t need to bring it up again."

    Effie gave a quiet nod. That made sense, but still-would Bancroft think she was too calcting?

    Lyman seemed to read her mind. "Actually, I can tell Grandpa likes you a lot. In the Etheridge family, we respect people who are clever, not the clueless ones."

    Effie blinked in surprise, then broke into a smile. Was that his way of saying she was smart?

    Seeing her smile, Lyman rxed, his own mood brightening.

    Before long, they arrived at the hospital.

    Lindy hopped out of the car, trailed by a small parade of rtives, each carrying armfuls of care packages and gifts.

    Themotion was so over the top that Effie instinctively edged away to the side. Lyman, used to this kind of scene, knew Effie would rather keep her distance. Without a word, he slowed his pace and stuck by her side, steering them away from the crowd.

    Effie noticed what he was doing and nced over at him. Lyman caught her look, shed a private smile, and his eyes sparkled with warmth-just for her.

    When they finally reached the hospital room, it was practically overflowing with fruit baskets, flowers, and boxes of vitamins, barely leaving enough space to step inside.

    Laughter drifted out from the room-her grandmother''s elegantugh mingled with the lighter voices of Lindy and Friedman. The atmosphere was unexpectedly warm and easy.

    Effie felt her spirits lift.

    She nced at Lyman. He grinned at her and said, "See? I told you there was nothing to worry about."

    She smiled, and together they walked in, still hand in hand.

    From across the room, Granger spotted Effie and started to greet her. But when

    he realized she and Lyman were holding hands, he faltered, hesitated, and then turned away with a rueful smile.

    As Lyman and Effie entered, theughter in the room died down for a split second then bubbled up again.

    Lindy teased, "I was wondering where you two had disappeared to! Turns out you were sneaking off for some alone time."

    Grandma smiled warmly. "That''s wonderful, just wonderful."

    Even though Effie''s marriage had started in a whirlwind, seeing her inws rush to visit the moment they heard she was hurt-bringing so many thoughtful gifts and treating her with such respect her grandmother felt genuinely reassured.

    Lindyughed along. "Why don''t you two take another stroll? We''ll keep Mrs. Spencerpany."

    Effie hesitated. "But-"

    "Go on, go on," Lindy urged with a wink.

 Chapter 198

    Lindy had just ushered Effie and Lyman out of the room.

    Now, the two of them wandered down the hospital corridor, exchanging uncertain nces.

    "What are they thinking, wanting us to flirt in a hospital?" Lyman said, half-ughing, half incredulous.

    Effie could only shake her head. She found it a little awkward, too.

    Still, it was true¡ª-they''d skipped right past dating and straight into marriage.

    Maybe their families worried their rtionship wasn''t strong enough, so they went out of their way to give them moments like this.

    Effie actually didn''t mind the alone time at all.

    She turned to Lyman and said, "Honestly, this is kind of nice."

    Lyman smiled. As long as Effie was happy, nothing else mattered to her.

    Suddenly, Effie caught sight of a familiar figure hurrying through the doors into the maternity ward.

    That''s odd... Isn''t that Nelly from the design department?

    "What did you see?" Lyman asked, noticing the shift in Effie''s expression.

    He''d been so focused on her, he hadn''t seen anything unusual. But now he could tell something serious had caught her eye.

    Effie shook her head. This wasn''t her business to get involved in.

    "It''s nothing. Let''s just keep walking."

    "Alright."

    Effie was about to move on when she saw yet another familiar figure slip into the maternity ward-this time, she could have sworn she heard them call Nelly''s

    name.

    Grabbing Lyman''s arm, Effie quickly pulled him to the side.

    Lyman was caught off guard by their sudden need for secrecy in the middle of a hospital.

    He shot her an amused look. What could she possibly have seen that required them to act like a pair of sneaks?

    "Forget it, let''s go."

    Effie shook her head, baffled by her own reaction. Why was she more agitated than the people involved, as if she''d stumbled onto some grand secret?

    They wandered the halls for a while longer before making their way back to the patient room.

    Inside, her grandmother and Lindy were deep in conversation, the atmosphere warm and easy.

    Lindy stood up. "It''s gettingte. I''ll stop by again for another chat."

    Her grandmother nodded. "I''d like that."

    You''d think they''d known each other for years, the way they parted so reluctantly.

    Effie stayed behind, settling in to keep her grandmotherpany. Her curiosity got the better of her. "Gran, what did you two talk about? I didn''t expect you to have so much to say!"

    She''d half-expected them to run out of topics and fall into awkward silence.

    Her grandmother just smiled. "I can''t even remember. We just chatted, and before we knew it, we couldn''t stop."

    Effie wondered at that¡ªLindy and her grandmother seemed like people from two different worlds. They probably didn''t have much inmon, but maybe that''s why they made the effort.

    Over the next few days, Effie stayed by her grandmother''s side in the hospital. Lyman had already gone back to work, so it was just the two of them.

    One afternoon, as Effie was finishing her lunch, the door swung open.

    Granger walked in, eyes lighting up at the sight of food. "Well, that smells incredible," he said, inhaling deeply, exaggerating his longing.

    Effie hesitated for a moment. "Haven''t eaten yet?"

    "Nope. Had a surgery this morning-only just finished. Starving."

    His hint was obvious.

    Effie knew exactly what he wanted, but had no intention of obliging.

    She smiled politely. "I''m full, actually."

    With that, she closed the lid on her lunchbox.

    A flicker of disappointment crossed Granger''s face. He quickly recovered. "Just

    came by to check on your grandmother."

    "She''s doing well. She''s sleeping now," Effie replied.

    She was making it clear it was time for him to go, and Granger was perceptive enough to get the message.

    He forced a sheepish smile and turned to leave.

    Just then, her grandmother''s voice rang out.

 Chapter 199

    "Is that Dr. Morgan?" Grandma''s gentle voice floated from the room.

    Granger, eager to make a good impression, stered on his best smile and hurried over.

    He figured, sure, Effie might be keeping him at arm''s length, but at least her grandmother liked him.

    If he could win over the family, clear the obstacles, then maybe just maybe-he and Effie would finally have a chance.

    "Oh dear, child, slow down-watch out, don''t..."

    Granger stopped short, his eyes widening at the mountain of gifts stacked around the hospital room.

    "It''s okay, Grandma, I''m being careful. I won''t trip," he said, tiptoeing forward, determined not to embarrass himself in front of her.

    Grandma nced at him with a twinkle. "I''m not worried about you, dear. I just don''t want you to knock over all these gifts my inws brought me."

    Granger''s smile faltered for a split second. Wait-so he was just ttering himself, thinking Grandma was worried about him?

    Hold on, did she say "inws"?

    Just then, Grandma turned to Effie. "Effie, your mother-inw is far too generous, sending all these things over. There''s no way I can finish it all. Why don''t you take some home and share with the neighbors?"

    ¡°Sure, Grandma," Effie replied.

    Granger was floored, but he forced a smile and said, "Grandma, let me check on you see how your recovery''sing along."

    Grandma looked at him, feigning surprise. "That''s odd, didn''t my attending physiciane by earlier? Still, I have to say, Dr. Morgan, your skills are quite impressive. And you''re such a handsome young man surely an excellent doctor, right? With all those patients needing you, and you still take time to check in on an olddy like me... That''s truly touching."

    Effie couldn''t help thinking that Grandma''s words were a masterss in backhanded praise.

    Granger replied, "It''s nothing, really. Just happy to help. Effie and I are old ssmates-it''s the least I can do."

    "Well then, we won''t keep you any longer, Dr. Morgan. Goodbye!" Grandma said with a sweet smile.

    Granger beat a hasty retreat, feeling utterly defeated.

    He''d thought that being close to the family would give him a head start with Effie, but the olddy saw right through him and delivered a gentle warning.

    He was too embarrassed to linger a second longer.

    Once Granger was gone, Grandma remarked, "That Dr. Morgan does seem like a good sort. The other day, when the nurse wheeled me out for some fresh air, saw him being so kind to others."

    Effie shot her a puzzled look, not quite sure where this was going.

    Grandma caught the look and patted Effie''s hand. "Granger''s a nice boy, but you''ve found someone even better, haven''t you?"

    She gave Effie''s hand a gentle squeeze. "At my age, I''ve realized there''s nothing more important than your own happiness."

    She paused, then asked quietly, "Effie, are you happy now?"

    A sudden tightness gripped Effie''s heart. For some reason, Grandma''s words sounded just a little off.

    "Grandma, don''t scare me," Effie said anxiously.

    Grandma saw her worry and hurried to reassure her. "Oh, sweetheart, I''m fine. I

    think I''m just feeling a little downtely, probably because your mother''s anniversary ising up."

    The mention of her mother''s passing tugged at Effie''s heart as well.

    Her mother had been gone for years, but the loss hung over both her and Grandma like a cloud that never quite lifted. Every time they spoke of her, it hurt all over again.

    Yet, strangely enough, this year felt different. In the past, as the anniversary approached, Effie would be gued by insomnia and headaches, lying awake for nights on end.

    But this year, though she remembered the date, the old pain didn''te back the same way.

 Chapter 200

    "Let Lyman know, would you? We''ll visit your mother''s grave together," Effie''s grandmother said, her eyes brimming with tears.

    She quickly turned away, wiping her cheeks before pretending nothing had happened. "You''re married now, darling. It''s only right to let your mother know."

    Effie nodded. "Okay."

    ...

    When Fidelia returned to her room, Marcia and Fowler took turns scolding her, forbidding her from meddling in Effie and Isabel''s affairs ever again.

    Fidelia felt miserable. Just then, Isabel called to ask about the photo incident.

    Fidelia never could keep anything to herself, and she''d always seen Isabel as a confidante. So, all at once, she poured out everything that had happened over the past two days.

    The more Isabel listened, the colder her heart grew.

    Unbelievable, she thought. Fidelia had screwed things up herself, and now she was dragging her down with her!

    There was no way Isabel could clear her name now, not even if she tried to exin herself until the end of time.

    Frustrated beyond words, Isabel still had to bite back her irritation andfort Fidelia over the phone, though she was so angry she nearly threw her phone across the room.

    When she finally managed to coax Fidelia into hanging up, Isabel did just that¡ª she flung her phone aside.

    Carole jumped, staring at the battered device. She wondered how many phones that made this month.

    Sure, buying a new phone was nothing to Isabel; it was just pocket change. But transferring all her contacts, syncing photos, and setting everything up again? That was always her job, and it drove her crazy every time.

    "Who got on your bad side this time, trouble?" Carole asked, her tone as gentle as if she were soothing a child.

    "It''s Fidelia, that idiot. Not only did she mess things up, she dragged me into it,¡± Isabel replied.

    She exined the whole situation.

    Carole sighed. "Whatever you do, don''t try to exin this to Lyman."

    Isabel frowned. ¡°If I don''t, the misunderstanding will only get worse! Lyman''s going to be so disappointed in me."

    "If you rush to exin, Lyman will just think you put Fidelia up to it," Carole said. "But if you pretend you know nothing, and Lyman brings it up, just act surprised. y dumb. It''s all Fidelia''s doing anyway-she never said you told her to do anything. So, what are you afraid of?"

    Isabel mulled it over and realized Carole had a point.

    "Sis, can you get me a new phone?"

    Carole sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Sure, boss. Whatever you say."

    Effie told Lyman about visiting her mother''s grave. On the day itself, Lyman woke up early and fussed over his clothes, making sure he looked his best.

    Effie couldn''t help butugh. "We''re just going to pay our respects to my mom. Is that really necessary?"

    Lyman looked at her,pletely serious. "Of course it is. It''s the first time I''m meeting your mother. I have to make a good impression, don''t I?"

    Effie''s eyes turned red, her nose prickling with emotion. She turned away, quickly dabbing at the corners of her eyes.

    Lyman noticed and hurried to help her wipe her tears. "If you don''t want me to, I won''t. I''ll do whatever you say."

    Effie took a deep breath and managed a shaky smile. "No, I mean it. I''m really touched. Thank you for treating my mom as if she were still here."

    Lyman paused, then pulled Effie into his arms.

    She rxed against his chest, listening to the steady, reassuring thud of his heartbeat. She caught the faint, clean scent of his cologne-something like white tea and citrus. It was crisp and soothing, making her feel both refreshed and safe.

    "Come on, let''s go pick up Grandma."

    For the first time, Effie felt a flutter of anticipation in her chest.

 Chapter 201

    Effie Bagnold and Lyman Etheridge picked up her grandmother and the nurse from the hospital, then headed together to the cemetery.

    When they arrived, there was already a bouquet of lilies-her mother''s favorite- ced in front of the grave.

    Her grandmother gazed at the flowers, a wistful sigh escaping her lips. "That person... always gets here before we do."

    Effie nodded. "Yeah."

    They''d missed them again.

    Every time Effie visited, there were always fresh lilies and her mother''s favorite pastries left at the headstone. She''d always been curious about who this person was, but every single time, she missed them. Today was no different.

    "If you really want to know who it is, I can help you find out," Lyman offered.

    Effie shook her head. "No, it''s okay. Whoever it is always avoids us. That probably means they don''t want to meet."

    "So let''s not intrude. Maybe... if it''s meant to be, we''ll cross paths one day."

    Her grandmother nodded in agreement, clearly feeling the same way.

    Lyman epted their decision with a small nod. Since Effie and her grandmother had made up their minds, he wasn''t about to meddle.

    "Lyman,e here," Grandmother called, pulling him to the front. She looked at the smiling woman in the photograph on the headstone. "Adriana, this is your son- inw. Effie and Lyman are married now, and they''re very happy together. You can rest easy."

    Lyman looked at Adriana Spencer''s portrait, his tone uncharacteristically serious. "Mom, I''m Lyman, Effie''s husband."

    He felt a lump in his throat, so nervous he could barely get the words out-it was worse than negotiating a multi-million dor deal.

    "I promise I''ll always take care of her," he said solemnly.

    Effie and her grandmother both had tears in their eyes.

    Just then, a group of people approached.

    Effie heard their footsteps and turned to see Shepard Bagnold and Vera, with Mitchell Lloyd and Suzan Bagnold following behind.

    What are they doing here?

    Mitchell happened to nce her way at that exact moment. When he saw Effie''s tear-stained eyes, he immediately felt a pang of guilt. For some reason, he instinctively med Lyman, assuming he''d made Effie cry.

    Unbeknownst to him, every flicker of emotion on his face was caught by Suzan.

    Suzan''s expression darkened so much it looked as if she could wring water from it; she was clenching her jaw so tightly she might''ve cracked a tooth.

    Typical Mitchell-always wanting what he can''t have. He used to call Effie dull, but now that he''d lost her, suddenly she seemed perfect.

    Men really are the same everywhere: the things they can''t have are always the most precious; once they do, it''s just another red stain on the bedsheet.

    Still, Suzan didn''t me Mitchell. She med Effie.

    Effie, with her innocent act, ying the helpless little flower-wasn''t she just trying to lure men in?

    Effie''s grandmother saw Shepard and her gaze turned icy. "What are you doing here?"

    Shepard put on a mournful face. "Mom, today''s Adriana''s anniversary. I came to pay my respects."

    "You don''t deserve to be here!" her grandmother snapped, her voice sharp as a whip. "All you do is pollute the air around her."

    The outburst left her so upset her chest heaved with every breath.

    Effie rushed to her grandmother''s side, trying to calm her down. "Enough! You''ve had it good for so long that you can''t even stay away on my mom''s birthday, huh? Need a little drama to spice things up?"

    "You think showing up here makes you important?"

    "Vera, you''re nothing but the other woman. If you had any decency, you''d be on your knees in front of my mom''s grave. If you can''t do that, then don''te at all!¡±

    "Every second you spend here is an insult to my mom. Get out!"

    Vera''s eyes filled with tears, her face crumpling into a mask of wounded innocence.

    She looked at Shepard, her voice trembling. "Honey, I was Adriana''s good friend. I just wanted to pay my respects. Is that so wrong?"

 Chapter 202

    Shepard was already seething with anger, but he managed tofort Vera, murmuring softly, "I know, I know."

    Effie''s expression grew even darker. Watching those two put on their little show in front of her grandmother made her stomach turn.

    "Get out!" she snapped.

    Snatching up a freshly broken branch, Effie swung it toward Shepard and the others.

    Shepard barely dodged the blow, his face stormy as he barked at her, "You ungrateful girl! Is this how you treat your father? I order you to apologize to me and to your stepmother, right now!"

    In his rage, Shepard hadpletely forgotten why he''de in the first ce.

    Effie let out a coldugh. "And when have you ever acted like a father? What gives you the right to y that role in front of me?"

    She brandished the branch again, her eyes shing. ¡°If you don''t leave, don''t me me for what happens next!"

    "You-" Shepard was so furious he could hardly speak.

    "Leave." Lyman''s voice cut through the tension, icy andmanding. His eyes were cial, and it seemed as though the temperature around them dropped a few degrees.

    A chill ran down Shepard''s spine, as if he''d plunged into a frozenke. Without another word, he gathered his people and made a hasty retreat.

    "It''s all right now, Grandma," Effie said gently, crouching down to reassure her. Her grandmother nodded, gripping Effie''s hands tightly. "Yes, I''m okay."

    The visit to Adriana''s grave had already weighed heavily on everyone''s spirits; now, after the confrontation, no one felt like lingering any longer. They left in a hurry, silent and somber.

    Not long after Effie and the others had gone, a shadowy figure appeared quietly at Adriana''s grave.

    ...

    "Can you believe Effie actually brought Mr. Etheridge to visit Adriana''s grave? Does she really think he cares about her? As if she could ever be worthy." Suzan''s tone dripped with scorn.

    Shepard snapped out of his thoughts, shooting Suzan an irritated re. "No

    matter how you feel, she''s still your sister," he barked.

    Suzan was startled by his sudden outburst. Her eyes went red as she stammered, "Dad, why are you-?"

    Not wanting Suzan to dig herself in deeper and further anger Shepard, Vera quickly intervened. "Suzan, why don''t you go back with Mr. Lloyd? I''ll stay here with your father."

    Suzan hesitated, but nodded. "Okay."

    Just as she started to leave, Shepard called after her, "Remember this: no matter what, when you''re outside this family, Effie is your sister. Is that clear?"

    Suzan felt the weight of his words; she stiffened, then nodded obediently. "I understand."

    Once Suzan was out of earshot, Vera turned to Shepard. "She''s still young, darling. We just need to guide her, that''s all."

    "She''s young?" Shepard scoffed. "She''s nearly old enough to be a mother herself. She''d better learn to stop this nonsense, or she''ll regret itter."

    Vera thought to herself that Shepard was just venting his frustration and didn''t bother taking his words to heart. Outwardly, though, she offered a soothing smile. "Don''t be upset. It''s not worth making yourself sick over this. I''ll talk to her."

    Vera knew exactly how to handle men-when to push and when to yield. That was why Shepard was so fond of her. Not like certain other women, who were too proud to ever back down.

    She had orchestrated her rtionship with Shepard from the start, fully aware that Adriana couldn''t tolerate a single blemish in her life. Sure enough, when Adriana found out, she demanded a divorce. Shepard refused, and who knows what kind of stress Adriana suffered she lost her mind, and not long after, she died in a car ident.

    Other people might not know what really happened, but Vera did.

 Chapter 203

    "Honey, the real reason you came today wasn''t to pay your respects to Adriana, was it?" Vera asked softly.

    Shepard let out a cold snort. That had been the n, but now the whole thing was ruined.

    He only had himself to me-he''d lost his temper in a moment of recklessness. He''d meant to keep his cool, but for some reason, he just snapped today.

    "We''ll talk about it another time," Shepard said.

    Vera smiled faintly and let the subject drop.

    Spring break was over, and everyone was back at work. Effie returned to the design department.

    She had barely pulled into the parking lot and was about to back into an open spot when a Porsche darted in out of nowhere, stealing the space right in front of her.

    The driver stepped out-it was Nelly.

    With an attitude as shy as her sports car, Nelly strutted over and rapped sharply on Effie''s window.

    As soon as the window rolled down, Nelly''s voice shot up an octave, dripping with disdain. "Are you blind? Didn''t you see I had my eye on that spot? If you scratch my car, even selling you wouldn''t cover the repairs!"

    Her chin was tilted so high it was a wonder she could see anything at all, as if she looked down on the world from the bridge of her nose.

    Effie''s own car was a modest, economy electric model-something Nelly clearly considered beneath her.

    Effie shot her a frosty look and lowered her voice. "If you don''t learn to watch your mouth, next time I''ll show you personally how to use your eyes when you drive."

    She brushed her shoulder lightly, as if flicking off something distasteful.

    "Oh, and that dust on your lips-did you pick it up mming your brakes, or is that just your attitude spilling over?"

    "I''d suggest you ask for a refund from your driving school. Clearly, they forgot the part about paying attention behind the wheel."

    "You-!"

    Nelly hadn''t expected Effie to have such a sharp tongue; she looked like she might explode on the spot.

    While Nelly was still fumbling for aeback, Effie simply pulled away, leaving Nelly coughing in her wake as a cloud of exhaust drifted over her.

    Effie found another spot with ease, parked perfectly, and walked off without a backward nce.

    Nelly stomped her foot in frustration, gritting her teeth. "That witch-just you wait!"

    Not far away, inside another car, Randell Hoffman watched the scene unfold. He turned to Lyman with a grin. "That woman can really handle a car¡ªand herebacks. She''s got my attention, that''s for sure."

    From the passenger seat, Vinson Elliott shot Randell a look that said, "Good luck, you poor fool."

    Randell frowned, puzzled. "What''s with the face? You look like you''re at a funeral."

    Vinson stifled augh. If only Randell knew. "Do you even know who she is?" "No idea. Do you?"

    He nced at Vinson, clearly expecting an answer.

    Vinson''s lips curled in amusement, eyes glittering with mischief.

    Last time at The Gilded Fork, Lyman had yed a prank on him, sneaking Effie away before anyone could meet her.

    So, no one here had actually seen Effie before.

    This time, Vinson decided to let Lyman handle it himself.

    "Ask Lyman," he said.

    Not suspecting a thing, Randell turned to Lyman. "So, who is she?"

    Lyman''s face darkened like a stormy sky. "Why, are you interested in her?"

    Randell shrugged, still watching Effie from a distance. "Can you me me? She''s gorgeous.¡± Suddenly, he felt the temperature in the car plummet and swallowed nervously.

    "She''s my wife," Lyman said, his voice icy.

    "What?!"

    Randell nearly bit his tongue. He spun around to see Vinson doubled over withughter, eyes squeezed shut.

    If Randell didn''t realize he''d been set up by now, he''d have to be aplete idiot.

    He red at Vinson. "You knew the whole time, didn''t you?!"

    Vinson just arched an eyebrow. "Maybe I did, maybe I didn''t. But hey, Lyman hadn''t said a word-wasn''t my ce to tell."

 Chapter 204

    Randell hurried to smooth things over and turned to Lyman. "Lyman, your wife''s really... quite something."

    He couldn''t exactlypliment Effie''s looks-if Lyman thought he was eyeing his friend''s wife, that''d be a disaster.

    He added quickly, "I know the basic rule-never mess with a friend''s wife. You can trust me on that."

    Lyman rolled his eyes. "You talk too much. Come on, let''s y a round."

    Randell''s mouth twitched. Looked like he was about to lose big this time.

    Sure enough, out on the golf course, Lyman nailed a hole-in-one. Randell ended up footing the bill while the whole crowd cheered.

    Lyman grinned at him. "Thanks for covering us, Mr. Hoffman."

    Randell''s smile was more of a grimace. "Don''t... mention it."

    When Effie walked into the design department, she caught Nelly sauntering out of the manager''s office, looking absurdly pleased with herself.

    Nelly spotted Effie, lifted her chin, and said, "Effie, Mr. Butler wants to see you."

    Effie just raised an eyebrow and didn''t go in right away. She headed to her desk first, dropped off her bag, and only then looked up.

    Shirley poked her head out from behind her monitor and whispered, "Effie, you missed it¡ªNelly went into the office in tears, then marched right over to the manager. I couldn''t hear everything, but I definitely heard her say your name." Shirley looked worried. "I''m afraid they''re plotting something against you." Effie shrugged. "It''s fine. I haven''t done anything wrong, so I''m not worried." Shirley made the sign of the cross, murmuring, "Dear Lord, please protect Effie.¡± Effie couldn''t help butugh as Shirley dipped her fingers in her water ss and flicked droplets at her, iming it would ward off bad luck.

    "When did you get so superstitious?" Effie chuckled.

    Shirley winked. "Hey, you never know. At the end of science, there''s always a little bit of magic."

    Effie smiled, shook her head, and made her way to the manager''s office.

    She knocked. "Mr. Butler?"

    "Come in."

    Once inside, Irving Butler handed her a file. "Effie, here''s a new project. I''d like you to take it on."

    Effie didn''t agree right away. She took the file and started reading.

    Wait a minute¡ªwasn''t this the project Nelly was working on before?

    The Hoffman Group-powerful and notoriously demanding when it came to their partners.

    Of course, Etheridge & Co. had a strong reputation for jewelry design, but if even Nelly couldn''tnd the deal, maybe this project wasn''t the golden opportunity it was rumored to be. Maybe it was more of a poisoned chalice.

    Effie''s silence made Mr. Butler think she was intimidated. He tried to reassure her. "Effie, this project is important for Etheridge''s reputation. I''m counting on you to give it your all."

    Effie looked up. "Mr. Butler, if I remember correctly, wasn''t Nelly in charge of this project?"

    Irving Butler''s gaze flickered.

    He couldn''t deny it. Yes, it was true.

    Originally, Nelly was handling the Hoffman ount. She''d assumed that because Randell Hoffman and Lyman were childhood friends, the deal would be a shoo-in for Etheridge. She''d rushed into it, unprepared.

    It backfired. Randell had ripped into her, saying that if this was Etheridge''s standard, there was no point in working together.

    Nelly had even tried flirting her way back into his good graces, but Randell- despite his wild reputation-wasn''t interested in anyone who threw herself at him so tantly. Especially not someone who came on that strong from the get-go.

    With no other options, Nelly had begged Randell for another chance, then quietly told him she was just the liaison, and the real project lead was another colleague. And that''s how this tricky, thankless projectnded on Effie''s desk.

    "Effie, will you take it?"

 Chapter 205

    Effie knew this project was a tough nut to crack. If it weren''t, no one would have tossed the "opportunity" her way in the first ce.

    But she didn''t consider it a challenge-not for her.

    She was desperate for a chance to make a name for herself.

    Effie had kept such a low profile in the past that most people at The Etheridge Group barely knew she existed. Now, whispers followed her wherever she went¡ª people assumed she''dnded the job through connections, doubting she had any real talent at all.

    Isabel''s recent attempt to embarrass her had only made things worse. The wholepany seemed convinced Effie was just a pretty face with nothing behind it.

    But if she could secure a partnership with The Hoffman Group, those rumors would die a swift death.

    "Effie? I know this is a heavy assignment, but it''s also a valuable learning opportunity. Make the most of it," Irving Butler said, his tone almost fatherly.

    In truth, he was just passing the buck. He knew full well the task was near impossible.

    Once Effie failed, he''d have the perfect excuse to tell upper management that it was all her fault.

    He''d already promised Nelly-she wouldn''t take the fall for this. Not on his watch. "I''ll take it," Effie replied without hesitation.

    Irving had prepared a whole speech to convince her, but she epted so quickly that he was momentarily speechless.

    He smiled a genuine, unguarded smile.

    He wasughing at her stupidity.

    "Effie, don''t put too much pressure on yourself. Just do your best."

    The moment Effie walked out, Irving rushed to share the "good news" with Nelly.

    Nelly watched Effie leave, a spark of excitement flickering across her face.

    It wouldn''t be long before Effie was shown the door. How delightful.

    Effie arrived at the racetrack with Shirley by her side.

    They''d been waiting there for quite some time, but the heir to The Hoffman Group was nowhere in sight.

    Rumor had it that, with the Etheridge-Hoffman partnership still up in the air, rivalpanies were swooping in to court The Hoffman Group.

    Shirley was nervous; she couldn''t shake the feeling that this deal was a long shot.

    She watched Effie sitting calmly in the caf¨¦, sipping her coffee as if she hadn''t a care in the world. Either Effie was truly unppable, or she was simply too green to realize the danger.

    "Well, look who it is-big sister herself."

    Suzan sauntered over, a proposal folder in hand.

    One nce at the documents on the table, and she immediately understood- Effie was here to pitch a partnership too.

    "What a coincidence."

    Effie shot her a frosty look. "Not really. And don''t pretend we just bumped into each other. Next time, don''t call out to me if you don''t have to-I''d hate to lose my appetite."

    "You"

    Suzan''s face flushed crimson, darkening with anger.

    She snorted. "Just you wait. There''s no way I''ll let you win this."

    With that, she turned on her heel and stalked off.

    Shirley watched Suzan with curiosity. Despite being decked out in designerbels, Suzan made sure every logo was visible, as if she wanted the whole world to know¡ªshe looked more like a walking Christmas tree than a fashion icon. All those shing elements just didn''t work.

    "Who is she?" Shirley asked.

    Effie''s voice was t. "Just some shameless nobody."

    Shirley couldn''t help but crack a smile. The description fit perfectly, she thought.

    Effie mighte across as cool and reserved, but the more time you spent with her, the more you realized how genuine she was a rare find, worth befriending.

    She''d never seen Effie lose herposure with anyone.

    If Suzan could provoke her, Suzan must have done something truly unforgivable.

    "God, please put that woman out of her misery," Shirley muttered under her breath.

    Effie looked up, having only caught the tail end of what Shirley said. "Hmm?"

 Chapter 206

    Shirley forced an awkward smile at Effie. "It''s nothing," she said, trying to brush off the tension.

    Momentster, Effie and Shirley spotted Randell approaching, surrounded by a

    small group.

    Effie was just about to stand up and greet him when a waiter appeared out of nowhere, nearly colliding with her.

    "I''m so sorry, miss. Are you alright?" The waiter''s eyes flickered uneasily as he nced away, almost as if he was distracted by something in the distance.

    Effie frowned but replied, "I''m fine, thank you."

    The brief interruption, however, gave Suzan just enough time to beat Effie to Randell''s side.

    "You''re with E&M Group?" Randell asked, turning his cool gaze on Suzan.

    Suzan straightened her back and smiled confidently. "That''s right. Our jewelrypany may be young, but we''ve already made quite a mark these past few years. I''m sure you''ve heard of us, Mr. Hoffman."

    Randell nodded. "Yes, I have. Your reputation does precede you."

    "This is our proposal. If you have a moment, I''d love for you to look it over-"

    "Mr. Hoffman¡ª¡± Effie''s voice cut through Suzan''s pitch, stopping her mid- sentence. Suzan shot Effie a re so sharp it could have drawn blood.

    Randell blinked in surprise when he saw Effie. Wasn''t this Lyman''s wife? What was she doing here, seeking him out?

    He wondered if Effie knew he was Lyman''s childhood friend.

    But Effie was oblivious to Randell''s thoughts. She spoke clearly, "I''m here on behalf of The Etheridge Group to discuss a potential partnership."

    The Etheridge Group? Randell raised an eyebrow. So, Nelly''s so-called stand-in turned out to be Effie herself.

    Effie was certainly attractive, but she wasn''t from any established Neo-Arcadia family-Randell couldn''t figure out what exactly Lyman saw in her.

    He was curious to see just what Effie was capable of.

    "So," Randell said, "when The Etheridge Group said they were sending someone new, they meant you?"

    Effie nodded. "That''s right."

    Just then, another person hurried over, eager to introduce their ownpany. Clearly, everyone had done their homework and knew Randell would be here- now they were all jockeying for his attention.

    Randell''s eyes sparkled with amusement. "Looks like we''ve got quite the crowd today. How about a warm-uppetition? Whoever wins, I''ll seriously consider partnering with them."

    "Apetition? What sort?" someone asked.

    Randell grinned. "Equestrian. A horse race."

    If you couldn''t ride, you weren''t even eligible to participate. Some people instantly realized they''d be left out.

    "A horse race?" Suzan''s lips curled into a smug smile, her eyes glinting with confidence.

    She nced at Effie. "Well, sis, do you dare?"

    Effie''s childhood had been gilded-piano lessons, art, etiquette, and of course, riding lessons with a renowned coach her mother had hired. Suzan had burned with jealousy when she first learned of Effie''s privileges. Why did Effie get every opportunity while she got nothing?

    Vera, her confidante, hadforted her, promising that one day she''d take everything from Effie.

    And Vera had delivered. Piece by piece, she''d helped Suzan im all that once belonged to Effie.

    Vera was friends with Adriana, who had taken pity on Suzan and let her join the riding lessons, too.

    At first, Effie had advanced quickly, but after losing her privileges, she''d had no chance to continue. Suzan, meanwhile, seized the opportunity and trained for years.

    Eventually, with no one left topete against, Suzan found riding dull and gave

    it up.

    But she was confident-she''d spent far more time in the saddle than Effie ever had, and her skills were bound to be superior.

 Chapter 207

    "Effie, this is wonderful-we finally get topete together again!" Suzan''s voice was bright with excitement.

    Randell''s eyes gleamed with interest as he nced between the two sisters. So, there''s some history between Effie and Suzan, he thought.

    Effie turned to Randell, her tone calm and direct. "Mr. Hoffman, just now you only said you''d consider partnering with us. In that case, I''m not interested inpeting."

    She paused, her gaze steady. "Unless you can give me a clear answer: If I win, you have to agree to work with me.¡±

    Shirley''s eyes widened in surprise. Only Effie could be this bold, she thought. Didn''t she worry about offending people with such bluntness?

    Even Randell found Effie''s forthrightness intriguing.

    He couldn''t help but wonder what sort of charm Effie possessed to win over someone as stoic as Lyman.

    "Effie, isn''t your demand a bit much?" Suzan interjected, feigning concern. "You''re making things difficult for Mr. Hoffman."

    Inside, Suzan was uneasy. Why is Effie so confident? Does she really think she can win? Or is she just putting on a show?

    Either way, Suzan was determined not to lose to her sister.

    "Mr. Hoffman, let''s just treat this as a friendly match," Suzan added, her voice gentle and considerate. "We would never pressure you."

    Randell shot Suzan a cool nce. Who does she think she is? Why should he take her advice?

    "Alright, I ept your terms," he said, turning back to Effie.

    His response stunned everyone except Effie.

    Randell studied her, curious. How could Effie remain soposed? In that moment, she reminded him a little of Lyman.

    The group made their way to the stables.

    Randell entered first, then signaled for the attendants to close the gate behind him.

    "Mr. Hoffman, we''re not inside yet!" Suzan called out anxiously.

    Randell paused, turning back with a distant smile. "That''s odd. Weren''t you all here to spend money?"

    The crowd fell silent. Was he deliberately making things difficult? Who actually came here to spend that kind of cash? Just the membership alone cost half a million dors.

    People began to murmur uneasily.

    None of them were skilled riders; they''d onlye along for the opportunity. Now, they couldn''t even get through the door.

    No one''spany would approve a gamble like this without certainty. A $500,000 membership fee? They''d need to get approval from their bosses first.

    Just like that, a good number of people dropped out.

    Effie watched Randell, thinking he was clever. Not only was he negotiating business, he was running the club well-charging admission at every turn.

    "And what about the rest of you?" Randell asked, surveying the stragglers.

    He was sizing them up. If apany couldn''t even afford the club''s entry fee, how could they possibly handle a project of this scale?

    So when some left, he didn''t care in the slightest.

    Effie reached into her purse, ready to pull out her own card. But before she could speak, Suzan interjected, "I have a membership card."

    She''d gotten it from Mitchell, who''d handed it over knowing she''d being to discuss business.

    The attendant checked her card and let Suzan through.

    Suzan turned to Effie with a sharine smile. "Don''t have one, sis? Want to use mine?"

    She knew perfectly well Effie would never ept her help. And if she did, well- Suzan would have plenty of ammunition to mock her for it.

    Effie replied coolly, "I have my own."

    She handed her card to the attendant, who received it respectfully. But almost immediately, his expression changed.

    "Miss, your card is identical to the one the previous guest used. Our policy is one card per entry. So, which of you is the real owner of this membership?"

 Chapter 208

    A glimmer of amusement shed in Randell''s eyes. Two people, one membership card, and both iming it''s theirs? Now, this was something he''d never seen

    before.

    "Mr. Hoffman, what should we do?" one of the staff asked.

    Before Randell could answer, Suzan jumped in. "Just check who owns the card. It''s under my fianc¨¦, Mitchell. He gave it to me, so where do you think my sister got hers?"

    Effie,pletely unruffled, replied, "I opened my own ount."

    "Well, since both of you have your stories, why don''t we just make a call and settle it?" Randell suggested, grinning to himself. Free drama¡ªwho could resist?

    What kind of wife did Lyman end up with? Randell thought. This was getting interesting.

    Meanwhile, Effie was mulling over Mitchell''s nerve. She was curious just how shameless he could be.

    She remembered how she''d suggested opening the club membership. At first, she wanted it in her own name, but Mitchell insisted it should be under thepany''s, iming there were special perks and that it would be easier for ounting. She''d relented, thinking she was doing it for the good of thepany-and for him. But she''d paid for it out of her own bonus.

    Just then, Mitchell picked up his phone, and the doorman exined the situation.

    "So, who does the membership belong to, sir?" the doorman asked. "Who do you want to let in?"

    There was a sudden silence on Mitchell''s end-maybe he was hesitating.

    Of course, Suzan wasn''t about to let Effie win. Not unless she wanted to lose face entirely.

    ¡°Mitchell, I''m here, everything''s fine," Suzan called out, her voice sweet but loaded with meaning.

    Mitchell caught the hint. He''d been about to say the card belonged to Effie, but Suzan''s words changed his mind. ¡°Let Suzan in," he said.

    Suzan''s face lit up with satisfaction. She turned to Effie, her smile smug. "Sorry, sis, but the truth speaks for itself. I really didn''t expect you to keep Mitchell''s membership card after you''d broken up. What''s the deal? Trying to get something for free? Or do you just miss him that much? You''re not together anymore-can''t you just move on?"

    Randell''s eyes sparkled. There was definitely more to this story than met the eye. But could this drama really deliver?

    Effie let out a coldugh. "You''re the only one who likes digging through garbage for scraps."

    With that, she pulled out her wallet and turned to the doorman. "I''ll open a new ount right now. Under my own name."

    Shirley stared at her, jaw practically on the floor. "Effie, the membership here costs two hundred thousand dors! Not two hundred!"

    Suzan chimed in, feigning concern. "She''s right, sis. If you''re having trouble, just let me know-I could lend you the money."

    Effie didn''t even spare her a nce. She simply told the doorman, "Please hurry."

    "Of course, I''ll get the paperwork started right away," the doorman replied.

    Suzan didn''t go inside. She wanted to see Effie''s card get declined to watch her fail, right in front of everyone.

    But to Suzan''s dismay, Effie''s application went through without a hitch.

    When the doorman handed the new card to Effie with a respectful nod, Suzan''s face turned so dark it looked like a storm cloud.

    Effie nced at her, a sly smile tugging at her lips. "Oh, by the way¡ª"

 Chapter 209

    Suzan froze, a sudden sense of dread creeping over her.

    She nced toward Effie, lips pressed together, putting on her best innocentmb look.

    Effie sometimes wondered how Suzan managed to look so convincingly

    aggrieved. Anyone who didn''t know her would probably believe she was genuinely hard done by.

    "Effie, I know life''s not easy for you," Suzan said, her voice soft and sharine. "You''re trying to save face, gritting your teeth just toe up with that two hundred thousand. If you''re in trouble, you can always tell me. I''ll help you. I promise."

    Effie looked at Suzan, a cold smile tugging at her lips. "Suzan, your acting''s getting a bit much."

    Suzan bit her lip. "I''m not acting."

    Effie patted Suzan''s shoulder in a mock-friendly gesture, letting her hand linger there a moment. "Rx," she said coolly. "I really don''t need that two hundred thousand."

    Suzan''s lips twitched. Of course Effie could act so casual-she''dnded Lyman, after all, and with his money backing her, a little cash wasn''t hard toe by.

    But it wouldn''tst. Lyman would tire of Effie soon enough.

    Suzan smirked to herself. What would Lyman think if he knew Effie had blown two hundred thousand just to open a premium ount? The thought alone was amusing.

    "Because Mitchell gave me forty million."

    "What?!"

    Suzan couldn''t contain herself any longer. She jerked Effie''s hand off her shoulder and spat, "Why would he give you forty million?!"

    Effie''s voice had been low-meant only for the two of them. But Suzan''s outburst was loud enough to draw every eye in the room.

    People were now openly staring, curiosity written on their faces.

    Effie''s tone was light, almost breezy. "Oh, he didn''t mention it to you? You''ll have to ask him yourself."

    Before Suzan could recover, Effie turned on her heel and strolled away.

    Shirley hurried after her, eyes wide with gossip. ¡°Effie, what''s going on? Forty million? Are you serious?"

    Shirley had only ever seen that many zeroes in math ss-she lived paycheck to paycheck, and even having four hundred to her name was a stretch.

    "Can you show me what forty million even looks like?"

    Effie, never one to hold back, handed over her phone and pulled up her banking app.

    Shirley squinted at the screen, counting under her breath, "Ones, tens, hundreds, thousands, ten thousands, hundred thousands... millions..."

    She sucked in a sharp breath. "Holy moly, it really is forty million!"

    Shirley''s eyes sparkled as she grinned at Effie. "Rich Lady Effie, take me under your wing, will you?"

    Effie burst outughing. Shirley was a riot-work was so much more fun with her around.

    "Order as much bubble tea as you like," Effie said, still smiling. ¡°Extra toppings, your call."

    Shirley was easy to please. Her joking plea for a sugar mama was just that¡ªa joke. But Effie''s offer of unlimited toppings made her day.

    When Shirley ced her order, she added nearly every topping the bubble tea ce had¡ªso many, in fact, that the shop called to make sure she hadn''t made a mistake.

    When the tea arrived, Effie couldn''t help butugh. "Is this bubble tea or some kind of dessert soup?" she teased.

    But that was all just background noise.

    Meanwhile, Randell was already seated in the audience, ready to watch Effie and Suzan''s little drama unfold.

    Two women at each other''s throats-now this was entertainment.

    Just then, someone hurried over. "Mr. Hoffman, there''s trouble! The Bagnold sisters are fighting."

    Randell shot to his feet, worry shing across his face. "Damn it, they started without telling me?"

 Chapter 210

    Everyone:

    This was the first time anyone realized just how unexpectedly funny their young lord could be.

    Randell arrived at the stables, only to discover that Suzan''s assistant had tried to inject something into Effie''s chosen horse-but Effie had caught them in the act.

    "Mr. Hoffman, you''re just in time! They were about to do something to your horses," Effie reported the moment she saw Randell. "You treasure these horses like your own children. How could they even think of harming them?"

    Randell yed along, his face grave. "That''s right. Every horse here is the product of the finest breeding. You couldn''t rece them even if you sold yourselves. How dare youy a finger on them?"

    Suzan went pale, scrambling to exin. "No, we never intended to hurt your horses! You have to believe me."

    She shot a look at her assistant, who quickly added, "I never meant to give the horse an injection! That syringe is mine. I have diabetes, and I need to be ready to give myself insulin at any time."

    Did she really think anyone would buy such a flimsy excuse?

    Effie crossed her arms. "If that''s true, then the injection should be perfectly harmless for you. Go on, show us."

    "I..." The assistant''s eyes widened in panic. That syringe was filled with poison- there was no way she''d be stupid enough to inject herself with it.

    With a sharp p, Suzan struck her assistant across the face. "I can''t believe you''d do something like this. I''m so disappointed in you. Get out!"

    The assistant clutched her cheek and fled without a word.

    Suzan turned to Randell, her expression pleading. "Mr. Hoffman, I swear I had no idea my assistant would do such a thing. I promise I''m innocent. I didn''t know anything about this."

    Randell thought to himself, Do you really think I''d believe a word of that?

    But he didn''t call her out.

    Instead, his gaze drifted to Effie, who had already changed into her riding attire. The tailored vest hugged her slender waist, the crisp white jodhpurs and polished brown boots entuating her confident stance. With her hair tied in a high ponytail, the loose waves danced with every movement, carrying a faint, fresh scent that lingered on the air-delicate and alluring.

    He couldn''t help but admit: Lyman must be feeding her well.

    Noticing how intently Randell was watching Effie, Suzan scoffed inwardly. Effie is so shameless, she thought, always flirting with every man she meets.

    But Randell only admired Effie for a moment before looking away. "If that''s all, let''s get back to thepetition."

    When Randell returned to the stands, Lyman and Vinson Elliott joined him. Randell leaned in to Lyman. "I''ve got a surprise for youing up."

    Lyman arched an eyebrow, unimpressed. "What kind of surprise could you possibly have for me?"

    Randell grinned. "If I told you, it wouldn''t be a surprise, would it?¡±

    Just then, Vinson Elliott, who''d been watching the track, let out a sharp gasp. Among the riders leading their horses onto the field, one figure stood out- someone who looked unmistakably like Effie.

    "Lyman, do you see that? That''s Effie, isn''t it?"

    Truthfully, Lyman had noticed her the instant she stepped onto the sunlit track. He couldn''t tear his eyes away as Effie smiled, radiant as she led her horse forward. She had a certain energy to her, as if she''d woven sunlight into her very being- so bright and lively that no one could look away.

    Randell clicked his tongue. "Just look at Lymanpletely lovestruck."

    "Wow," Vinson Elliott blurted, unable to contain his amazement.

 Chapter 211

    "Vinson Elliott, what''s got you acting so lovesick?" Randell muttered, shaking his head in disbelief.

    Vinson had always struck him as someone worldly, not the type to gape like a starstruck fool. Yet here he was, staring ck-jawed toward the arena.

    Randell followed his gaze and saw Effie already astride her horse, exuding a bold,manding energy. With her upright posture and the determined set of her jaw, she looked less like someone about topete and more like a warrior riding off to battle. The force of her presence was almost enough to make his knees weak.

    He paused, momentarily stunned. Effie''s delicate features had always given the impression of someone gentle, almost too fragile for the world-like a delicate flower. But every time he saw her, she shattered that illusion a little more.

    For the first time, Randell began to understand what Lyman saw in her.

    Just then, Suzan mounted her horse as well, though her movements were awkward and uneven, a stark contrast to Effie''s effortless grace.

    Effie cast a cool, fleeting nce at Suzan, her gaze finally settling on Suzan''s midsection.

    Suzan''s throat tightened, her heart leaping into her mouth. Instinctively, she wrapped her arms around herself, protectively covering her belly. "Effie, don''t you dare try anything underhanded. If anything happens to my baby, I''ll hold you responsible!"

    A cold smirk flickered across Effie''s lips. "I won''t need to lift a finger."

    Suzan''s brows knitted in confusion. "What''s that supposed to mean?"

    Effie didn''t bother to answer. The starting bell rang, and thepetition was underway.

    By the time Suzan registered what was happening, Effie had already spurred her horse forward, racing into the field ahead of everyone else.

    Suzan red at Effie''s retreating figure, grinding her teeth. "Witch. She said that just to throw me off!"

    With a huff, Suzan urged her horse after her.

    Effie galloped ahead, the wind streaming through her hair and tugging at her

    flowing riding coat. Her fitted vest hugged her silhouette, entuating every line

    of her athletic figure. Reins firm in her hands, eyes zing with wild determination, she seemed to move as one with her horse-fast as lightning, untouchable.

    Suzan threw herself into the chase, but no matter how hard she pushed, she couldn''t even get close enough to catch a glimpse of Effie''s coat tails. Frustration darkened her eyes, anger simmering just beneath the surface.

    Fine, she thought bitterly. Let''s see whoes out on top in the end.

    From the grandstands, Lyman sat silent and intent, his eyes never leaving Effie as she rode. He tracked her every movement, a faint, involuntary smile tugging at the corner of his mouth.

    Interesting. He''d never realized Effie knew how to ride at all. It was as though his wife was a treasure chest, full of hidden surprises, waiting for him to discover them one by one.

    But in the next instant, Lyman''s smile vanished, reced by a look of cold fury.

    "This is your idea of a surprise?" he growled under his breath.

    Randell was just as stunned. He hadn''t expected Effie''s horse to panic so suddenly, or to see Effie thrown from the saddle.

    Had she simply let go of the reins, the fall might not have been so bad-there was plenty of soft grass nearby. But Effie, stubborn as ever, refused to release her grip. Determined to keep her ce in the race, she clung to the reins with both hands, even as her left arm was dragged along the ground. Her sleeve tore, blood blooming on her white shirt like a crimson flower-beautiful but shocking.

    Without hesitating, Lyman vaulted over the railing andnded atop a waiting horse. He took off at breakneck speed, a blur of motion as he raced across the field toward Effie.

    He reached her in seconds.

    By now, Effie was struggling to pull herself back onto her horse. She tried again and again, only to be thrown off each time. Still, she refused to give up.

    Then, out of the corner of her eye, Effie realized someone hade to her side. She looked up, and found herself staring straight into Lyman''s worried eyes. For a moment, she froze, half-convinced she was imagining him.

 Chapter 212

    "Give me your hand," Lyman said, reaching out to Effie. One hand gripped the reins tightly, while the other stretched toward her.

    Effie hesitated, her jaw set with determination. "I''m fine," she replied, refusing his help.

    She tried again to mount the horse, pouring every ounce of strength into the effort, and finally managed to haul herself into the saddle.

    With her legs mped tight and hands gripping the reins, she leaned forward, hugging the horse''s neck. She pressed her face close to its ear and whispered softly, as if sharing a secret.

    Then, gathering herself, she straightened up and urged the horse forward. They burst into a gallop, wind whipping past, and within moments she''d caught up to Suzan then overtook her, winning the race.

    Only after Effie''s victory did Lyman ride over, stopping his horse beside Effie and Suzan.

    Randell and Vinson Elliott arrived just momentster.

    As soon as Effie dismounted, a figure shot toward her-Shirley-who flung her arms around Effie and hung on tight, sobbing loudly. "Effie, you scared me half to death! I thought... Oh, thank God you''re okay, I was so worried!"

    Randell, meanwhile, looked at Lyman, clearly wanting to show concern for Effie, but his innocent expression seemed to say, "Don''t look at me¡ªI had nothing to do with this."

    Lyman''s gaze was unreadable, his eyes fixed on Effie''s scraped arm and leg.

    "Alright, that''s enough now. See? I''m fine," Effie said, ruffling Shirley''s hair as if soothing a startled puppy.

    Watching this, Randell couldn''t help but imagine: if Lyman had been the one to hug Effie and get that close, would he be beaming with happiness right now?

    But there was no "what if."

    "Mr. Hoffman, I won," Effie said, turning to Randell after calming Shirley. "You''ll keep your promise and work with me now, right?"

    Randell was caught off guard by the question, so flustered that he almost tripped over his own tongue.

    Suddenly, he felt a sharp stare burn into him.

    He turned his head, meeting Lyman''s dark, prating eyes¡ªand felt his heart skip a beat.

    ¡°Listen, Lyman, I swear, I didn''t mean for any of this..."

    Effie had risked everything in the race, nearly thrown from her horse, yet she wouldn''t give up. All for the chance to partner with Randell?

    Randell went stiff, wishing he could crawl into a hole and disappear.

    Effie, meanwhile, realized with a start: so Randell and Lyman actually knew each other. Not that it mattered to her. Even if she''d known they were friends, she wouldn''t have used Lyman''s connections to get to Randell-she wanted to win this deal on her own merit.

    But Lyman had other priorities right now.

    "Want my forgiveness? There''s only one way," he said.

    Randell perked up, eager to please. "Name it."

    "Find out who tampered with Effie''s horse," Lyman said, his tone cold as steel. "And I want them to pay."

    "Yes, sir!"

    Randell shivered inwardly. Whoever dared mess with Effie clearly had a death wish.

    Just then, Suzan-who''d beenrgely ignored-suddenly clutched her stomach and gasped, her face gone pale. "My stomach-it hurts..."

    Everyone turned to her now, watching as she doubled over in pain.

    Effie just looked at Suzan, a knowing smile on her lips, and let out a cold chuckle. She''d figured Suzan would try to pull something like this, using a stomachache to get attention.

 Chapter 213

    "Ow, that hurts..."

    Suzan cried out, then slumped to the ground, passing out cold.

    She fell slowly, half-expecting someone would rush to catch her. But when her body hit the gravel, no one even seemed to care.

    The small stones dug painfully into her back.

    But Suzan didn''t dare move-she was ying dead.

    If Lyman ever found out she was the one who tampered with Effie''s horse, she''d

    be in real trouble. Maybe even dead meat.

    So, better to just keep pretending now.

    "Take her to the hospital," Effie said coolly. "She''s pregnant."

    Effie could have ignored Suzan''s fate, but the woman was carrying a child. If something happened to her at Randell''s stables, it woulde back to haunt him.

    "Damn it!" Randell''s voice shot up in rm. "She''s pregnant? Why didn''t anyone say so? And she''s riding a horse? Is she out of her mind?"

    He grumbled under his breath, but still made sure Suzan was taken to the hospital.

    "We''re going too," Lyman said to Effie.

    Effie gave him a puzzled look. "Why? This has nothing to do with us."

    She had zero interest in Suzan''s wellbeing.

    "Lyman, are you taking responsibility for this?" Vinson Elliott asked.

    Lyman didn''t answer; he hadn''t been talking about Suzan at all, but Vinson misunderstood.

    Effie looked at Lyman, waiting for him to exin.

    Under his wife''s curious gaze, Lyman finally said, "I have shares in this stable, actually. I''m the major shareholder."

    Effie couldn''t hold back a muttered jab, "So you''re the biggest shark after all?"

    Lyman heard her he couldn''t help but smile, half amused, half exasperated.

    He pretended not to notice. "Hmm?"

    Effie nced away, embarrassed. "Oh, nothing."

    Then, remembering something, she turned to Shirley. "Shirley, why don''t you head home? You''ve had a long day."

    Shirley bit her lip, shaking her head. "I can''t. I was there-I''m a witness. If that shameless Suzan tries to pin anything on you, I''ll back you up."

    Effie was genuinely touched, but there were plenty of witnesses and evidence around; she didn''t need to worry about Shirley.

    "Go on home," Effie assured her. "I''ll be fine."

    Shirley hesitated.

    Lyman stepped in. "Anything you spent today, thepany will reimburse you."

    Shirley''s eyes lit up. "Even lunch?"

    "Even lunch," Lyman replied.

    "Then I''ll grab a bite first!" Shirley took off at a sprint.

    She''d been eyeing the caf¨¦''s sandwiches all afternoon, and now she finally had an excuse to try them.

    "Capitalists really do have their perks," Effie joked.

    But Lyman didn''tugh. Instead, he frowned, noticing the bruise on Effie''s arm. He reached for her, but the moment his fingers brushed her skin, Effie winced and let out a soft gasp.

    He immediately pulled his hand back, guilt flickering in his eyes. "Did that hurt?¡±

    Effie shook her head. "It''s fine, just a little sore. Probably be healed up by tomorrow."

    But before she could finish, Lyman scooped her up in his arms.

    "What I meant was, we''re going to the hospital too. I want your arm looked at."

    "Oh." Effie''s cheeks flushed pink.

    Afraid of falling, she quickly wrapped her arms around Lyman''s neck, and the two of them looked inseparable.

    Vinson Elliott turned to Randell. "Guess you did something right today."

    Randell opened his mouth, unsure. "I don''t know. Maybe it''s just making up for my screw-ups."

 Chapter 214

    Vinson Elliott gave Randell a hearty p on the back. Usually, Randell strutted around like nothing in the world could faze him, but right now he was hunched over, as timid as a rabbit.

    Trust Lyman to shake him up.

    "What do you think?" Vinson pressed.

    Randell pressed a hand to his forehead and groaned, ¡°Ugh, my head is spinning. I need a doctor."

    Vinson shot him a look. "Honestly, you''re acting like some mangy old dog. Wait until Lyman gives you a kick-you''ll be cured in no time."

    Randell scowled. "Hold on, why an old dog? I''m still young, thank you very much!"

    Vinson rolled his eyes so hard he practically saw the ceiling. He''s missing the point entirely as usual.

    Effie arrived at the nearby hospital just as Suzan was being rushed into the emergency room.

    "Where''s the doctor? Is anyone here?"

    Lyman, carrying Effie in his arms, radiated such a fierce, unapproachable energy that people instinctively kept their distance. No one dared get close.

    "Mr. Etheridge, is this youngdy-?"

    "Get your best orthopedic specialist here, now!" Lyman barked.

    "Right away!"

    Dr. Quinn, the most experienced orthopedic chief, hurried over, out of breath. He noticed Lyman still cradling Effie, and Effie''s face was buried against Lyman''s chest, clearly embarrassed. Dr. Quinn''s heart skipped a beat-this looked serious. He worried that if Effie''s injuries were beyond help, it would be a disaster.

    "Mr. Etheridge, um... would you mind setting her down so I can examine her?" Dr. Quinn ventured cautiously.

    Only then did Lyman gently set Effie down, as if she were the crown jewels.

    "Careful. Don''t hurt her," Lyman warned.

    Dr. Quinn nodded, just as careful. "Of course."

    He examined Effie''s arm and thigh, checking every bruise and scrape. As far as

    he could tell, there was nothing too rming. Was he missing something? Was his medical training failing him?

    Effie blushed and mumbled, "Doctor, I''m really fine. He''s just..." She nced at Lyman, exasperated. "He worries too much. It''s no big deal."

    Dr. Quinn finally understood-Lyman was making a mountain out of a molehill.

    But he was smart enough not to me Lyman for it.

    "I''ll just clean up these scrapes and bandage you," he said gently.

    "Thank you."

    Once her wounds were treated, Lyman scooped Effie up again and carried her out.

    Effie felt the stares of the doctors and nurses following her, and her cheeks burned.

    She tugged at Lyman''s sleeve and whispered, "Put me down, please."

    Her breath was warm against his ear, sending a jolt down his spine. He squeezed

    his knees together and quickly set her on a bench in the hallway. "I''ll be right back. I need to use the restroom."

    "Okay," Effie replied, watching him walk away.

    Just then, hurried footsteps echoed down the corridor.

    Effie nced up instinctively and spotted Mitchell with his mother, Adeline.

    Mitchell froze when he saw Effie, his steps faltering.

    Adeline''s eyes narrowed, anger flickering across her face. She stormed toward Effie, her voice sharp and using, ¡°Effie! I knew it you''re the one who hurt Suzan! If anything happens to Suzan''s baby, I swear, you''ll regret it!"

 Chapter 215

    Adeline flew into a rage, refusing to listen to reason. She was absolutely convinced that Effie had gone after Suzan out of sheer jealousy.

    "You barren hen! Jealous because someone else is expecting a baby, is that it?!"

    With that, Adeline raised her hand and tried to p Effie.

    But Effie was ready for her. As Adeline''s hand came swinging, Effie simply sidestepped, letting the blow catch nothing but air.

    Adeline''s arm hung awkwardly in midair. For a moment, she was stunned.

    How dare Effie avoid her like that? The Effie she knew had always been meek and obedient, never daring to resist.

    "Effie!" Adeline spat, her voice shaking with fury as she red at Effie, eyes sharp enough to cut.

    Of course, Effie knew exactly what Adeline was thinking.

    Back when she''d wanted to win Mitchell''s approval, Effie had put on her best good-girl act, always bending to Adeline''s will. She''d gone against her own heart, and for what? All she''d earned was Adeline''s contempt.

    But now, with nothing tying her to Mitchell anymore, she was finally free to be herself.

    She''d promised herself: never again would she swallow her pride for someone else''s sake.

    "Mrs. Lloyd, let me give you a word of advice: before you figure out what''s actually going on, keep your hands to yourself. If yoush out at the wrong person, you''ll regret it."

    Adeline could barely contain herself. "Look at her! Who does she think she is, daring to snap at me like this?" Her jaw was clenched so tightly she nearly cracked a tooth.

    Mitchell''s brows drew together in a frown as he fixed Effie with a disapproving stare.

    He wanted to speak up for her, but in his mind, younger people owed their elders respect and obedience. Effie''s new defiance felt like a p to his pride-she was slipping right out of his control, and he hated it.

    "Effie! Apologize to my mother," Mitchell ordered coldly.

    Effie shot him an icy look, her eyes distant and utterly devoid of warmth.

    Mitchell felt his heart skip a beat, aplicated mess of emotions stirring inside him.

    "I haven''t done anything wrong. Why should apologize?" Effie replied. "Suzan knew she was pregnant and still chose to go horseback riding. How is that my fault?"

    She looked from Adeline to Mitchell, her voice

    A grown man and

    an old woman, both ganging up on a woman-aren''t you even the

    least bit ashamed?"  fo

    Just then, Lyman''s presence filled the room, the air seeming to drop several degrees as his gaze darkened.

    His sudden appearance left Mitchell and Adeline momentarily speechless.

    "They never had any shame to begin with," Effie said to Lyman, her tone softening as she yed up her vulnerability just a little.

    Seeing Effie on her feet, Lyman strode over and swept her into his arms, his voice gentle. "Why are you up? You should be resting."

    Effie leaned into him. "There are too many monsters and ghouls here-too much bad energy. I just want to go home."

    "Alright," Lyman replied, his tone warm. "Let''s go home."

    Mitchell felt a sharp sting behind his

    eyes as he watched Effie nestle close to Lyman. It was a feeling he couldn''t quite name-like something precious had just been ripped away from him.

    His feet twitched, and before he realized it, he''d started to follow after them.

    But Lyman paused and turned, his voice icy as he spoke. "I won''t let today''s incident go unanswered. Count on it."

    The cold steel in Lyman''s words sent a chill through the room.

    Mitchell and Adeline exchanged uneasy nces, their hearts pounding with anxiety. What did Lyman mean by "today''s incident"? What exactly had happened?

    Just then, the ER doors swung open and a doctor stepped out. "Family of Suzan Lloyd?"

    Adeline immediately clutched Mitchell''s sleeve. "Mitchell, the doctor''s calling you."

 Chapter 216

    Mitchell snapped back to reality, watching Effie and Lyman disappear down the corridor. He felt as if something had been hollowed out inside him.

    He turned stiffly toward the doctor, forcing the words out. "I''m... her boyfriend."

    Those two words felt as heavy as lead.

    The doctor gave a nomittal grunt, then said, "The patient experienced some bleeding. Her condition is concerning, but we''ve handled the immediate emergency."

    He lowered his voice, speaking more firmly. "But I suggest you stop putting her through so much stress. Let her rest and take proper care of her. If something like this happens again, no one will be able to save her and the baby. You could lose them both."

    Adeline swayed, nearly copsing.

    Mitchell caught her just in time. "Mom," he said quietly.

    Adeline clung to Mitchell''s hand, her voice trembling as she murmured, "The baby... the baby must be okay."

    At that moment, Suzan was wheeled out of the room. Her eyes were red and puffy -she''d clearly been crying.

    Spotting Mitchell, she let out a choked sob. "Mitchell..."

    Seeing her like that, Mitchell''s chest tightened with pity. He hurried over to her side.

    Suzan grabbed his hand and broke downpletely, her tears flowing even harder.

    Mitchell spoke to her gently,forting her until, after a long while, she finally began to calm down.

    He asked, "What happened today?"

    At first, Suzan hesitated to answer.

    She didn''t want Mitchell to know everything she''d done. She finally said, "I went to

    meet Mr. Hoffman about the partnership."

    Mitchell nodded. "I know about that."

    Originally, he''d nned to go with her, but something urgent hade up at work, so he''d asked Suzan to handle it. Their proposal had been solid he was confident they''dnd the deal.

    Suzan''s eyes filled with fresh tears as she faltered, "When I got to the stables, I ran into my sister. She... still won''t forgive me..."

    Her voice broke, and she started crying loudly again.

    She didn''t add anything else, but her reaction left plenty of room for suspicion.

    Mitchell''s brow furrowed deeply. He clenched his jaw. "So, Effie really didy a hand on you?"

    Suzan didn''t answer. She just kept crying, refusing to say another word.

    Mitchell would draw his own conclusions.

    Her sobs grated on his nerves. "Enough, Suzan," he said. "Stop crying. Lyman told me he''s not letting this go. If Effie hurt you,! haven''t even begun to settle things with her. If anything happens to your baby, I swear I won''t let Effie off the hook."

    Suzan froze, her sobs abruptly cut off.

    She clung to Mitchell, panic etched across her face. Her hands trembled, knuckles white with tension.

    Mitchell noticed her distress and felt a prick of suspicion-she was hiding something.

    He asked carefully, "Are you keeping something from me?"

    Suzan snapped to attention, biting her lip. She shook her head, trying to look innocent. ¡°Mitchell, I''m scared,¡± she whispered.

    "Even if Lyman doesn''t really care for Effie, he''s still with her. If Effie tells

    himing bad about us, wilkhe

    Suzan''s eyes were rimmed red, her voice trembling between sniffles¡ªshe looked like a helpless littlemb.

    Mitchell''s heart softened instantly, and any lingering doubts melted away.

 Chapter 217

    Mitchell couldn''t shake the image of Lyman carrying Effie away. A surge of inexplicable anger bubbled up inside him. Turning to Suzan, he said through gritted teeth, "I won''t let them get away with this! I don''t care how much power Lyman thinks he has this isn''t somewless backwater."

    Suzan''s eyes shed, and a sly smile flickered across her face, the satisfaction of a scheme falling neatly into ce.

    The next morning, Effie walked into Irving Butler''s office, contract in hand.

    Irving took the contract with a heavy sigh. "I know you did your best, Effie, but a failed deal is still a loss for thepany."

    "I''ll report the situation honestly to upper management, don''t worry." He set the contract aside with a careless wave.

    Effie hesitated. "Mr. Butler, aren''t you going to take a look?"

    Irving shot her a puzzled nce. The deal hadn''t gone through-what was the point? What was there to see?

    "No need..."

    "How can we move forward if you won''t read it?" Effie pressed.

    "Move forward? What are you talking about?" Irving stopped short, a flicker of realization crossing his face. His hand trembled as he snatched up the contract and flipped through the pages.

    His eyes widened at the signature on thest page. Effie had closed the deal. "This can''t be real!" he blurted, his face a mask of disbelief.

    Effie gave him an innocent look. "Mr. Butler, why do you look so surprised? Didn''t you trust me with the contract because you believed I could seed? I thought you had faith in me."

    Irving was momentarily at a loss for words.

    He forced a smile. "Right. You did an excellent job."

    "Thank you for thepliment, Mr. Butler. If there''s nothing else, I''ll get back to work."

    As she left, Irving thought to himself that Effie certainly wasn''t humble.

    Still, he couldn''t help but wonder how she''d managed to get Randell''s signature.

    Irving followed Effie back out to the main office and called out, "Everyone, I have good news-Effie has secured the partnership with The Hoffman Group. Let''s give her a round of apuse! I hope you''ll all take a page from Effie''s book."

    "}

    As his announcement hung in the air, shock rippled through the team-everyone except Shirley, who had already known about the deal.

    Nelly, in particr, looked thunderstruck, her face so dark it seemed she might wring water from it. Impossible. If she herself hadn''t been able tond the deal, how could Effie have done it?

    Her gaze swept over Effie''s delicate features and poised posture. Then she noticed the silk scarf Effie had suddenly started wearing, as if to cover something. Nelly''s anger faded, reced by a spark of excitement¡ªlike a hunter catching a glimpse of prey. So Effie wasn''t as pure as she liked to pretend, after all.

    As Irving disappeared back into his office, the team scattered, but the whispers began almost immediately. Effie was still a neer-if she could and the contract so easily, what did that say about Nelly''s abilities? Doubt began to shadow Nelly''s reputation.

    Nelly could hear the quiet gossip behind her, her expression growing even stormier.

    "Effie!" Shirley''s head popped up beside her, a mischievous grin spreading across her face.

    Effie eyed her, half-joking. "What''s got you grinning like that? Did you find a pot of gold?"

    Shirley''s eyes lit up at the mention. "If I really found gold, I''d be set for life!"

    Effie shook her head,ughing. "You''ve got money on the brain, huh?"

    Shirley pulled a dramatic face. "Money isn''t everything, but without it, I can''t do anything. It''s the end of the month and I''m already broke."

 Chapter 218

    Shirley was absolutely adorable¡ªand so were her spending habits.

    She''d happily throw together a hearty meal for just a few bucks, but wouldn''t think twice about splurging twice as much on a fancytte. If the evening called for it, she''d treat herself to avish dinner out-maybe a fondue night or a sizzling steakhouse-never letting her taste buds feel neglected.

    But ask her to spend a single dor on a pack of tissues? Absolutely not. No way.

    Her philosophy was simple: "Save on the little things, spend on what matters."

    Effie was about the same age as Shirley, but after years living with her grandmother, her habits were a world apart. Her grandmother lived by the rules of healthy living: no cold drinks, everything fresh, nothing out of season, and food always light and wholesome.

    Effie didn''t care much for indulgent treats; the only thing that ever tempted her was seafood.

    "This time, if you help me seal the deal, there''s a bonusing our way," Effie told Shirley with a smile. ¡°You''ll finally get to spend guilt-free."

    Shirley''s face lit up. "That''s fantastic!"

    As the two chatted about their soon-to-be windfall, Nelly approached, catching the tail end of their conversation. Internally, she scoffed. Bonus? In their dreams.

    "Effie, that scarf is gorgeous. Where''d you get it?" Nelly asked sweetly. And before Effie could react, Nelly reached out and yanked the silk scarf from her neck.

    The fake smile evaporated from Nelly''s face. "Why isn''t there anything?"

    Effie fixed her with a cold stare and stood up. She was taller than Nelly, and as she rose, the shift in energy was almost physical-Nelly suddenly felt small, dwarfed by Effie''s presence.

    "What exactly were you hoping to see?" Effie''s gaze was icy, as if she could see right through Nelly''s intentions.

    ¡°I just... I mean, I thought¡ª" Nelly stammered, having expected to find some embarrassing mark, maybe a hickey, hidden beneath the scarf.

    But there was nothing there at all.

    "I wear scarves because they go with my outfit. What did you think?" Effie''s tone was cool and dismissive.

    Nelly''s bravado faltered. She tossed the scarf back at Effie. "Here, take it."

    Except the scarf didn''t quite leave her hand. It caught on a rhinestone on her manicured nails, snagging the delicate fabric.

    Effie''s expression darkened as she looked at the pulled thread. "That''s my scarf," she said, her voice tight with anger.

    Nelly bristled. "Why are you raising your voice? It was an ident!"

    Effie''s voice was like ice. "You break else''s things and act like big deal? Did I give permission to touch my scarf?"

    it''s

    Nelly bit her lip¡ªEffie was right. She''d been so eager to expose some secret, and

    sp

    now she''d made a fool of herself.

    "I didn''t mean to."

    Shirley know

    Wed in, "Nelly, even kids e than a child?" Conteet

    should apologize whem et

    you

    up. Don''t tell me you''re

    Nelly shot Shirley a venomous re. "Who asked for your opinion?"

    Shirley just shrugged. She was only telling the truth, but clearly, Nelly''s pride had

    taken a hit.

    Effie said, "Shirley''s right. Even

    children know how to take

    responsibility. Apologize and pay up.

    That scarf was a custom

    ove

    Hermes-ten grand. I expect your

    payment in five minutes."

    "You''re out of your mind! Who''s to say it''s even real?" Nelly shot back.

    She owned a few Hermes scarves herself, and they''d never cost more than four

    or five thousand. Ten grand? No way.

 Chapter 219

    Effie had no intention of wasting any more time with Nelly. She said briskly, "I''ve sent you my purchase record. Check your work email."

    Nelly gave a disdainful snort, pulled out her phone, and nced at the screen- her expression shifted ever so slightly.

    "Nelly, you drive a Porsche. Don''t tell me you can''t even afford to pay me back a measly thousand dors?"

    Nelly''s eyes flickered. That Porsche wasn''t even hers.

    "Fine, I''ll pay. Just wait."

    It wasn''t long before Effie received the payment from Nelly.

    With another huff, Nelly stomped back to her desk, furiously tapping away at her phone. Whatever she was texting or whoever she was texting, Effie didn''t care in the slightest.

    Shirley shot Effie a thumbs-up. "You''re amazing, Effie."

    "Did you know Nelly would try something and that''s why you brought that scarf?¡± Shirley asked, her eyes wide with curiosity.

    Effie shook her head. "I''m not psychic. How could I have predicted that? You''re the one who threw yourself in the line of fire¡ªI couldn''t do much about that."

    She nced at the snagged threads in her expensive scarf and winced. "Such a waste of a good scarf."

    "By the way, what were you about to tell me earlier?"

    Shirley paused, suddenly nk. "What was I going to say?" She squeezed her eyes shut, racking her brain.

    Then, as if struck by lightning, she snapped her eyes open and looked at Effie. ¡°I remember!"

    Her exmation drew a few nces from nearby desks, and Shirley offered an awkward smile before lowering her voice. "Effie, are you and Mr. Etheridge... together?"

    Now it was Effie''s turn to panic. Her hand jerked, knocking over her water bottle, and she scrambled to mop up the spill.

    "W-what are you talking about?" she muttered, shooting Shirley a warning look.

    This girl really was a little too sharp sometimes.

    Shirley just grinned. "It''s obvious, you know. Mr. Etheridge looks at you like you''re the only person in the world. I swear I could see the hearts in his eyes."

    She went on to describe how she''d seen Lyman at the stables, gazing at Effie like he couldn''t look away.

    Effie blinked. She''d never thought about how Lyman looked at her from someone else''s perspective. What kind of look was that, anyway?

    "Don''t worry, your secret''s safe with me. Honestly, people''s rtionships aren''t anyone else''s business," Shirley said sincerely.

    Effie trusted Shirley, and she nodded. "Thanks."

    "No problem." Shirley gave her a yful wink.

    That afternoon, Effie got ready to head out. She stopped by Irving Butler''s office to

    ask for leave. "Mr. Butler, I need to step out for a bit."

    Irving Butler didn''t even look up from his paperwork. "Where to?"

    "I''m meeting with The Hoffman Group to discuss the next stage of our

    coboration," Effie replied.

    At that, Irving Butler finally looked up, fixing her with a level gaze. "That won''t be

    necessary. I''ll be handling the follow-up from here."

    Effie''s brow furrowed as she stared at him, unblinking.

    He met her eyes with maddeningposure. Clearly, this sort of thing was nothing new for him.

    "Effie, do you really think you''re ready to handle a project of this size? You''re still new-you don''t have the experience yet,¡± he said smoothly. "I''m doing this for your own good."

    Effie scoffed inwardly. Butler''s skin was thicker than the grime on a street beggar. Did he really not feel a shred of shame stealing credit from his own team?

    "Effie, you''re young. Still a lot to learn," Butler finished, his lips curling in a smile

    that never reached his eyes. "Don''t you agree?"

 Chapter 220

    He''s actually threatening me now!

    Effie snapped, "Do whatever you want."

    She spun on her heel and stormed out of the office.

    The door mmed shut behind her, but Irving Butler didn''t get angry-in fact, he chuckled.

    If she''d mmed the door that hard, it meant she was furious.

    But what did her anger matter to him? He couldn''t care less.

    Irving slipped on his suit jacket and strode out, calling loudly, "Nelly,e with me. We''re meeting with Mr. Hoffman to discuss the next phase of our partnership."

    Nelly sashayed to her feet, casting a triumphant re in Effie''s direction. "Of course," she said sweetly.

    Irving and Nelly left together.

    Shirley fumed, "What the heck just happened? Where do they get off, stealing our project like that?"

    Effie''s tone was cool. "Do they even have any shame?"

    Shirley blinked, then couldn''t help butugh. "Now that you mention it... probably not."

    Effie turned to her. "Don''t waste your energy getting upset over people like that."

    "How can I not be mad? My bonus-gone, just like that!" Shirley groaned, genuinely upset about watching her bonus vanish into thin air.

    That evening, Effie and Lyman went to her grandmother''s house for dinner.

    Grandma was waiting for them in the courtyard, and as soon as someone passed

    by, she''d beam and introduce Lyman as Effie''s husband.

    Everyone praised Effie''s good taste for marrying such a handsome man.

    Grandma was well-liked and easygoing, so the neighbors were quick to shower Lyman withpliments, making him a little embarrassed by all the attention.

    "Grandma, can we go inside and eat now?" Effie asked, knowing full well her grandmother was showing off on purpose if she could, she''d announce to the whole world just how happy Effie was these days.

    Once Grandma felt she''d bragged enough, she finally led them upstairs.

    "Mrs. Spencer is really enjoying life now-her granddaughter married such a great guy, hired two caregivers for her: one to cook, one forpany and walks and conversation. Look at her, she''s looking better every day."

    "She and her granddaughter have finally made it through the tough times. It wasn''t easy."

    Everyone agreed that Grandma and Effie had been through a lot.

    Effie and her grandmother heard every word. Effie looked over just as her grandmother nced back at her.

    Effie squeezed her grandmother''s hand, and they exchanged a warm smile.

    They''d barely reached the top of the stairs when an unexpected visitor arrived. "Wait, isn''t that..... Effie''s cheating father?"

    "Looks like him, but it can''t be, right? If it''s really him, how does he have the nerve to show up here?"

    The old men and women, who could outshout a megaphone, gossiped loudly as Shepard ducked his head lower and lower.

    He''d half-expected this kind of scene but had no choice-he had toe today. Shepard climbed the stairs and knocked on the door. Effie opened it.

    Her eyes narrowed with annoyance. "You."

    Shepard hadn''t expected to see her; caught off guard, he stammered awkwardly, "Yeah, it''s me."

    With a sharp bang, Effie mmed the door in his face, giving him a taste of his own medicine.

    Shepard''s eyes darkened with irritation. He fumed inwardly¡ªafter all, he was still her father, and she couldn''t even give him a shred of respect!

    He knocked again, calling out, "Mom, it''s me. I came to see you."

    From inside, Grandma said, "When did a stray dog start barking outside? So noisy."

    "Calling him a dog is an insult to dogs."

 Chapter 221

    Shepard stood outside the door, listening as every word of Effie''s conversation with her grandmother drifted through the thin, battered wood. His weathered face was so dark with anger, it looked as if a storm might break across it at any moment.

    He was still standing out here did they think he was invisible? Dead?

    Taking a deep breath, Shepard forced himself to knock again, voice straining forposure. "Mom, it''s me. I came to see you... Mom?"

    At the sound of his shout, the smile instantly vanished from the old woman''s face. Effie yanked open the door, ring at him. "Shepard, what is wrong with you? Who said you could stand out here yelling like that?¡±

    The moment he saw her, Shepard''s gaze turned cold, a sh of irritation darkening his eyes. His voice was icy. "Effie, who taught you to be so rude?" She arched an eyebrow, her look making it perfectly clear-wasn''t it you? "Sorry, I was born with a father, but never raised by one. That''s just how it is." Shepard bit down hard in frustration. This damn girl-every time they met, she managed to drive him up the wall.

    He drew in another breath, fighting to swallow his anger. He hadn''te here to get into another shouting match with Effie.

    He tried again. ¡°Effie, I told you before you could have stayed with the Bagnold family, but you refused. You insisted on leaving with your grandmother. That''s not my fault."

    Effie knew all too well how much Shepard and Vera had resented her back then. Even if she had stayed with the Bagnolds, life wouldn''t have been any better. She''d rather live a modest life with her grandmother than be worked to death like some Cindere-ving away for her stepmother and stepsister while being bullied in her own father''s house.

    "Living with the two of you? I''m worried the air in that house is so toxic, I might get sick just breathing it."

    "You-enough!" Shepard''s face was thunderous, darker than soot.

    "Oh, I''m not finished. Do us both a favor and stoping here. Don''t call, don''t look for me¡ªI''m allergic to deadbeat dads."

    "Effie, I am your father!" Shepard ground out the words through clenched teeth.

    "I don''t have a father. Mine died the day he decided to cheat." Effie''s voice was ice.

    Shepard was so furious, his jaw creaked as he clenched it. "You''ve gotten sharper sincest time, haven''t you?"

    He reminded himself sternlyst time, he''d lost his temper and made things worse. That would not happen today.

    Effie, too, found Shepard''s persistence odd. He''d stood here and listened to her tirade without mming the door or storming off. If it weren''t for the fact that no Al could ever pull off this level of shamelessness, she''d have sworn he was an imposter.

    Shepard took another steadying breath. "I didn''te here to fight. I know you''re seeing Mr. Etheridge now. But you don''t understand what kind of family the Etheridges are¡ªI do. If you want things tost with him, you''ll need support. Otherwise, with your background, why would a family like that ever ept you? Come home. If you rejoin the Bagnold family as my daughter, you''ll have a real standing with them. They''ll respect you."

    "You''re smart enough to know¡ªif you want to be part of a family like theirs, you need a powerful ally. Come home, and I''ll be the strongest support you could ever have."

    Effie stared at him and let out a coldugh. If she hadn''t heard it herself, she''d never have believed a person could be this shameless.

    She said, "So this is what it looks like to beg for a favor with zero self-respect."

    Shepard''s brow tightened. He''d tried every kind word he could think of, but Effie still didn''t get it. Did she really think he didn''t have a temper?

 Chapter 222

    Effie paused, then said, "Alright. If you want me toe home, I can on one condition."

    Shepard''s face lit up instantly. He knew it-Effie would never give up on a father as generous as him!

    "If that''s how you feel, that''s wonderful. Name your terms. Don''t just stop at one, I''d agree to several if you wanted..."

    Before he could finish, Effie cut him off, her lips curling into a sly smile. "Kick Vera and Suzan out, and hand over your shares in The Bagnold Group to me."

    Shepard''s smile froze. The nerve! She was asking for far too much-did she want his car next?

    Those shares belonged to her mother by right!

    "Absolutely not! No way!" Shepard ground out, his jaw clenched.

    Effie just smiled. She''d expected this-there was no way he''d ever agree.

    "So that''s my only condition. If you can''t even manage that, how am I supposed to agree to your request?"

    "Get out."

    Shepard could keep up the act no longer. His voice dropped, cold and sharp. "Effie, if you push me away now, you''ll regret it!"

    "You know perfectly well why Mitchell abandoned you. Mrs. Lloyd never cared about you at all!"

    The words spilled out in his anger, careless and cruel.

    Effie''s gaze darkened. Once, those words would have stung, would have left her aching for days. But Lyman''s presence in her life had slowly begun to heal her. Now, she could finally let the past go.

    "They''re the ones who aren''t worthy."

    Lyman appeared in the doorway, catching everyone off guard. He''d been in the kitchen, busy cooking-Effie had mentioned she''d like some sweet and sour pork after seeing a pineapple delivered to the house, and Lyman had immediately offered to make it for her.

    Her grandmother had been stunned. The mighty Lyman Etheridge, a man with so much power and status, was actually in the kitchen just to make Effie happy.

    Effie caught her grandmother''s wide-eyed, almostical expression and couldn''t help butugh. ¡°Grandma, he makes me breakfast every day. Sometimes even dinner too. He''s actually a great cook."

    Her grandmother nodded, her eyes crinkling into narrow slits as she smiled. "Very nice, very nice."

    Even though Lyman had been busy in the kitchen, the thin walls meant he''d heard every word Shepard had said.

    Now, Lyman strode over to Shepard, his voice icy. "My wife doesn''t need a safety. She''s worthy of love for who she is."

    "How would you know who we like or don''t like? You''re not one of the Etheridge family!" Shepard shot back, desperate.

    Lyman''s eyes narrowed. "And you''ve never once acted like a real father. So spare us the lectures-you have no right to judge a daughter you abandoned for over a decade."

    "Such hypocrisy."

    Shepard''s expression flickered with panic. He hadn''t realized Lyman was right there, and now he scrambled to exin himself. "Mr. Etheridge, you''ve misunderstood. That''s not what I meant, I just..."

    Before he could finish, a group of old men and women stormed in, wielding

    brooms and mops, one of them even brandishing a trash bin.

    "Come on, everyone! Let''s drive this shameless man out of here!"

    Shepard froze in shock but quickly snapped out of it and began backing away in fear.

    "Where do you think you''re going? If you ever show your face here again, I''ll stick this mop¡ªfresh out of the bathroom-right in your mouth!" one of the olddies shouted, hands on her hips.

    Shepard sputtered, "You people are absurd!"

    He barely managed to escape, practically tripping over himself in his haste.

    But he wasn''t done yet. Just wait-he''d make sure these meddling old folks paid for this!

 Chapter 223

    What should have been a warm family dinner waspletely ruined by Shepard''s sudden, inexplicable outburst.

    Effie sat quietly through it all, drinking ss after ss until she was well and truly drunk.

    On their way out, her grandmother watched Effie with worried eyes.

    "Don''t worry, Grandma. I''ll take care of her," Lyman reassured her gently.

    Her grandmother nodded. "If only the guest rooms hadn''t gone unused for so long, I''d have insisted you stay here tonight."

    Truth was, the rooms were always kept tidy-her grandma just liked the idea that if Effie ever felt upset, she coulde home anytime and find everything ready for her. But with Lyman there, and knowing who he was, her grandma worried the old, cramped house with its thin walls might not befortable for him. So, she held back from insisting.

    Lyman led Effie out to the street to wait for their ride.

    The neighborhood was old, parking spots were few and far between, so their car was parked out along the curb.

    "Easy now," Lyman said, steadying Effie as she swayed on her feet.

    Drunk, Effie seemed like a different person. She clung to him, muttering, "Why is thismppost moving? I feel so dizzy..."

    Lyman blinked. "Lamppost? What?"

    He nced around and spotted a battered old bench under the big tree by the gate, where some of the local retirees usually sat to cool off.

    He guided Effie over and helped her sit down-if he didn''t, she''d keep this up and make a real scene.

    "Here we go, just sit here for a minute," Lyman coaxed, his tone soft and patient.

    Effie obediently settled down. "Take me home. I want to go home..."

    "We will. The driver''s almost here," Lyman said, keeping his voice soothing.

    Effie bowed her head and went still, looking for all the world as if she''d nodded off.

    Just then, Lyman''s phone rang. He nced at the screen-his driver. He answered immediately.

    "Mr. Etheridge, I''m so sorry. I was pulling out just now and didn''t notice-l clipped another car. I''m sorting it out now."

    Lyman''s driver had been with him for years, always steady, never so much as a fender bender. But this neighborhood''s roads were narrow, crowded, and at night, idents happened easily.

    Lyman didn''t scold him. "A hundred grand-will that settle it?"

    ¡°A hundred grand...¡± The driver swallowed hard. The car he''d clipped was some ancient import, worth maybe a fraction of that. But he understood Lyman wanted this resolved quickly. "Alright. I''ll negotiate."

    "Make it quick."

    While making the call, Lyman kept ncing back at Effie. But just as he finished transferring the money, he looked up-and the bench was empty.

    A sudden chill ran through him.

    "Effie!"

    Where was she? How could she vanish in just a blink?

    A surge of panic and regret washed over him. If anything happened to Effie, he''d never forgive himself.

    Meanwhile, Effie was stumbling along the sidewalk, when three young men came swaggering toward her-one with bright green hair, the others sporting yellow and red.

    She blinked blearily, head tilting to the side. "Why are the traffic lights all crooked?" she muttered.

    Traffic lights?

    The three exchanged amused nces.

    But their attention quickly shifted back to Effie¡ªa beautiful woman, alone,te at night, weaving tipsily along the street. Even if they suspected it was a setup, the temptation to approach was too much to resist.

 Chapter 224

    They didn''t just think about it-they actually did it.

    Like a pack of hungry wolves, they closed in. "Hey, gorgeous, all alone tonight?¡±

    Effie rubbed her bleary eyes, mumbling to herself, "Why did the stoplight turn into a dog?"

    "Help, there are stray dogs everywhere!"

    The three "stray dogs" could only watch in shock as Effie, nimble as a monkey, scrambled up the tall brick wall in a blink and perched on top.

    "Get lost, you filthy mutts!"

    Effie slipped off one of her shoes and hurled it at them.

    The three punks, still marveling at how she''d managed to climb up there with just her hands and feet, were startled by the flying shoe and ducked out of the way.

    Then, catching a glimpse of Effie''s pale, slender foot, their eyes went wide.

    "Smells sweet-beautiful girls'' shoes always do," the green-haired one said, picking up her shoe and giving it a sniff.

    "Ugh-"

    It wasn''t that Effie was trying to be rude they were just so revolting she couldn''t help herself. Already queasy from the drinks, she leaned over and threw up right in front of them.

    "Dude, looks like you offended her."

    "Scram."

    "What are you waiting for? Get up there and drag her down!"

    They hatched a n and started building a humandder.

    Suddenly, Effie burst out in giggles. "Look at that little dogs trying to climb the wall."

    Herughter rang out, making the three thugs flush with embarrassment and anger.

    "I swear, I''m not letting her get away tonight!"

    Just then, the alley grew darker as someone stepped in front of them¡ªa man, taller than any of them, blocking out the light.

    The blond punk scowled at Lyman. "Hey, pal, firste, first served. Let us have our fun, then you can take your turn."

    Lyman''s face darkened, his expression cold enough to chill the air.

    His voice was icy. "I''m afraid you''re not going to enjoy anything tonight."

    "Oh? nning to steal our prize?"

    The three thugs, emboldened by their numbers and seeing Lyman''s business suit and polished appearance, figured he was more show than substance.

    The blond spat on the ground, barking, "Get him!"

    He lunged at Lyman first.

    Lyman sidestepped the attack with ease andnded a punch straight to the blond''s nose.

    Blood gushed out, and before the punk could even recover, Lyman kicked him hard in the stomach, sending him rolling on the ground in agony.

    Up on the wall, Effie pped her hands in delight. "Go, Team Power Pole versus Team Traffic Light!"

    Lyman: "..."

    The blond: "..."

    Suddenly, Effie wobbled, nearly losing her bnce.

    Lyman''s heart leapt into his throat. "Careful!"

    Effie stretched out her arms to steady herself, swaying for a moment before standing upright again.

    "Wow, I''m amazing-I didn''t fall."

    Lyman let out a breath of relief, though he was still tense.

    He couldn''t help wondering-how on earth did Effie get up there? And how was

    he supposed to get her down?

    At that moment, the green-haired and red-haired punks rushed at Lyman.

    With a sweeping move, Lyman knocked them both to the ground at once.

    Just then, the driver came running over, shouting, "Get lost! Now!"

    The punks scrambled to their feet and fled.

    Lyman looked up at Effie, holding out his hand as if coaxing a child. "Come on, sweetheart. Time toe down."

 Chapter 225

    Effie sprang to her feet, giggling uncontrobly. Each time she swayed, Lyman''s heart lurched as if an invisible hand had seized it-his breath slowed, his nerves taut.

    "Don''t move around so much," he warned gently.

    But before he could finish, Effie flung out her arms. "I''m about to take off!"

    Lyman lunged forward just in time to catch her as shended squarely in his

    arms.

    With her arms looped around his neck, she burst intoughter. "That was fun! Let''s do it again!"

    Lyman thought to himself that there was nothing fun about nearly having a heart attack.

    Effie chimed in eagerly, "Come on, let''s do it one more time!"

    He nearly groaned. Again? His heart couldn''t take much more.

    "Mr. Etheridge, the car is ready-" the driver announced, but before he could finish, Effie suddenly shrieked, "Ahh! The superhero is here! We have to run!"

    The driver, his sses catching the glow from the streemp, looked utterly unassuming certainly not the superhero Effie imed.

    If the driver was the superhero, then what did that make them? Viins on the run?

    Lyman could guess the answer, but he still teased, "You think we can''t beat him?"

    "Not a chance! You''re themppost monster, I''m the bird monster-we''re way too weak. Run for it!" Effie dered, seizing his hand and taking off down the sidewalk.

    Lyman nced at their entwined hands-hers was delicate and pale, almost ethereal. His gaze drifted up along her arm until he met her face. Effie turned to look at him, and under the amber streetlight, she smiled; her whole face seemed to glow.

    For a moment, the stark, leafless trees lining the avenue seemed to burst into spring, vibrant and alive. It was as if joy bloomed right there in his chest.

    He squeezed her hand tightly. She was like a sprite who''d wandered into his world beautiful and wild, impossible to hold onto. If he let go, she might vanish in the next heartbeat.

    How he wished this moment couldst forever.

    Together, they reached the corner and slipped into the car.

    Effie nestled against him, and as Lyman bent his head, he caught the sweet scent

    of alcohol on her. He frowned a little. He hadn''t expected his grandmother''s homemade peach liqueur-so smooth and deceptively sweet-would go so thoroughly to Effie''s head.

    Well, lesson learned. Now he knew what she was like when tipsy, he was never letting her near alcohol again.

    Effie leaned back into the seat, growing quieter by the second, until she drifted off to sleep.

    Lyman let out a relieved sigh; the driver did too.

    Suddenly, Effie began to mutter, her words indistinct.

    Lyman leaned closer and caught a single name: "Mitchell..."

    His smile froze, shadows darkening his eyes.

    So, she still hadn''t let Mitchell go.

    It felt as if his heart had sunk to the bottom of a cold, darkke.

    "Scumbag! Get lost!" Effie blurted out, voice rising. "Mitchell, Shepard-you''re

    both trash! Get out of my life!"

    Her outburst was so fierce that her eyes snapped open.

    Lyman hadn''t expected her to wake so suddenly. Their eyes met.

    Effie squinted at him, then, recognizing his face, threw herself into his arms. "Handsome! My favorite handsome guy!"

    She pushed him back a little, studying him intently. "You look so familiar... kind of like my darling husband."

    Lyman''s heart, which had just sunk, began to rise again, warmth creeping in. "What did you say?"

    Effie smacked a kiss onto his cheek. "I love my husband-I love you, I love you..."

 Chapter 226

    Ecstatic. Absolutely over the moon.

    Lyman had never experienced such a wild swing of emotions in so short a time¡ª his heart soared and plummeted like he was on a roller coaster, equal parts thrilling and terrifying.

    "Honey, give me a kiss."

    He blinked in surprise; Effie had never been this forward before.

    But they were still in the car, and their driver was right up front.

    The driver stiffened under Lyman''s gaze, wishing, not for the first time, that he could simply disappear into thin air.

    Mr. Etheridge, if you so much as say a word, I swear I''ll gouge my own eyes out.

    "Keep your eyes on the road," Lyman said, his voice low andmanding, carrying an authority that brooked no argument.

    "Yes, sir. You have my word-I won''t look back," the driver replied, swallowing hard, tension radiating from his posture.

    Before Effie could react, Lyman was already leaning in, intent on stealing that kiss.

    But just as he reached for her, Effie, nestled sleepily in his arms, dozed off again.

    Outwardly, Lyman managed to keep hisposure, but inside, his mind was a chaotic sea of emotions.

    By the time they made it home, Effie was still in a deep, untroubled sleep¡ªpletely oblivious, dead to the world.

    Lyman considered helping her change out of her clothes, but the moment his fingers brushed her shirt buttons and identally skimmed her skin-a jolt shot up his arm. It was like an electric current, tingling and sharp, making his breath hitch.

    He felt a sudden, almost painful tightness low in his abdomen and swallowed, hard.

    Watching Effie,pletely knocked out and totally unresponsive, he could only sigh.

    "Gemma, could you pleasee upstairs and help Mrs. Etheridge get changed?" "Of course, Mr. Etheridge."

    Whatever happened next, Lyman didn''t witness it. He retreated to the bathroom for a cold shower, desperately needing to cool off.

    Who would have thought the day woulde when he''d have a beautiful woman in his arms and not be able to touch her?

    The next morning, Effie woke with a sharp gasp. Her head felt like a battleground, as if a dozen tiny people were hammering away inside her skull.

    What on earth happenedst night?

    Just then, someone shifted beside her. She turned, instantly on guard, only toe face-to-face with Lyman''s outrageously handsome features.

    And that''s when it all clicked-she was married now. And her husband wasn''t just any man; he was the kind of handsome that could make anyone''s heart skip a beat.

    At the moment, though, her stunning husband was gazing at her with a look of wounded resentment.

    Effie swallowed nervously. Had she done something wrongst night?

    "Um... honey, how did we get home yesterday?" she whispered.

    Lyman didn''t take his eyes off her. "You don''t remember?"

    She shook her head, but immediately regretted it as pain radiated through her skull.

    He looked as if he wanted to keep sulking, but her obvious difort made his expression soften with concern. "Are you okay? You were so drunkst night, I tried to get you to drink some hangover remedy before bed, but you were out cold pletely impossible to wake. I could barely even get you to sit up."

    Effie blushed at the mental image. "I mean... you could''ve... maybe tried mouth to mouth..."

    Her voice trailed off, growing smaller and smaller until it was barely more than a squeak. She stared down at her hands, too mortified to meet his eyes.

    Lyman couldn''t help it¡ªaugh burst out of him.

    "You really think I''d kiss you when you were that far gone? You threw up, you know."

    In truth,st night, in the heat of the moment, even his usual fastidiousness had nearly gone out the window. If only...

 Chapter 227

    "Cut back on those pointless TV shows, will you? They''re turning your brain to mush. Do you really think you can give someone medicine mouth-to-mouth? A straw would make way more sense." Lyman reached out and gave Effie''s forehead a gentle flick.

    "Ow," Effie yelped, pressing a hand to her forehead.

    "Did that hurt?" he asked, looking concerned.

    He hadn''t used much force-just a light tap, really. Still, he worried that what felt gentle to him might not be so for her, and he watched her anxiously for a reaction. Effie caught the nervous look on his face, and a soft warmth bloomed inside her. She grinned. "Rx, I was just messing with you."

    She dropped her hand, ready to reassure him she was fine-but to her surprise, her forehead was a little pink where he''d flicked her.

    "You... sure it doesn''t hurt?" Lyman asked, frowning.

    "Not at all," Effie replied.

    Getting to her feet, she suddenly noticed her clothes had been changed.

    Instinctively, she nced at Lyman, who clearly guessed what was on her mind.

    "I asked Gemma to help you with that," he said quickly.

    "Oh," Effie squeaked, cheeks flushing red as she darted into the bathroom.

    No wonder he''d given her that strange look a moment ago.

    She checked the mirror-sure enough, there was a faint pink mark on her forehead from Lyman''s flick.

    "Honestly, skin this thin¡ªwhat am I, made of tissue paper?" she muttered, shaking her head.

    After freshening up carefully, Effie finally stepped out of the bathroom.

    Lyman was nowhere to be seen-maybe he was downstairs. She headed down, but the living room was empty as well.

    Gemma appeared and said, "Mr. Etheridge left for the office he had an emergency meeting."

    Effie nodded. "Okay. Thanks."

    "Mr. Etheridge asked me to make you something soothing for your stomach," Gemma continued. "He said you''d probably feel rough afterst night, so you should eat something warm and gentle."

    Effie was actually craving something like that. Was Lyman a mind reader or something?

    After finishing the bowl of nourishing soup Gemma had brought her, Effie headed out for work.

    "Effie, you''rete!" Shirley called out as soon as she saw her. "Mr. Butler''s been in a mood since he got in. He was looking for you, and when he realized you weren''t here, he went off on all of us."

    Thinking back to the morning''s storm, Shirley instinctively hunched her shoulders, like a sapling battered by wind.

    "Got it," Effie replied, keeping her voice low.

    She didn''t rush to find Irving Butler. If he really wanted her, he''d send for her himself. Her head was still pounding, and she wasn''t in the mood for conversation.

    "Oh, by the way, this is for you." Shirley handed her a small, elegant box. Effie blinked, puzzled. It wasn''t a holiday-why was Shirley giving her a gift?

    Curious, she opened the box under Shirley''s expectant gaze and found a silk scarf inside.

    "This is..."

    "I saw a tutorial online about how to fix silk scarves," Shirley exined, a little shy. "Turns out it''s not that hard. I gave it a try, and, well, you can barely see where it was torn."

    Effie examined the scarf. Sure enough, she couldn''t find a single trace of damage. "Thank you. I really love it," she said with genuine gratitude.

    Shirley''s face lit up. "I could tell how much you liked it, and I thought it was such a shame when it got ruined. So I fixed it myself¡ªthank goodness you''re not mad at me for touching your stuff."

    "Mad? Why would I be mad? I''m thrilled!" Effieughed.

    Just then, Nelly spotted Effie at her desk.

    She marched over, arms folded and nose in the air. "Effie, you''re just now showing up? Might as well not have bothered-what, you think you''re the boss around here? Come and go as you please?"

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    "Our boss, Mr. Etheridge, shows up to work every single day, rain or shine! So, you think you''re even more impressive than Mr. Etheridge, huh?"

    Effie said, "I know I messed up today. I overslept."

    "Oh, you actually admit when you''re wrong? I thoughtnding one deal would go straight to your head-you''d forget your own name!"

    Nelly paused, then sneered, "Effie, I never figured you''d stoop so low. Selling yourself just to close a deal!"

    Effie''s eyes darkened as she shot Nelly a cold re. "Shut your filthy mouth. Did you have a pile of garbage for breakfast? You reek! Say another baseless word and I''ll make sure you regret it."

    She''d learned that with someone like Nelly, there was no point in turning the other cheek¡ªa sharp tongue worked better.

    "Don''t get too cocky. Just wait, Mr. Butler will set you straight!"

    Unable to win the argument, Nelly resorted to name-dropping Irving Butler.

    Effie''s mind shed back to catching Nelly and Mr. Butler together at the OB-GYN clinic.

    She smirked, "You keep bringing up Mr. Butler like he''s your guardian angel. People might start to wonder what''s really going on between you two."

    Effie''s words hit home. Nelly''s eyes flickered and she quickly looked away, unable to meet Effie''s gaze.

    Just then, Irving Butler stepped out of his office.

    "What''s all this noise? I could hear you from my desk," he snapped, his eyesnding squarely on Effie.

    He was targeting her on purpose of course he was.

    "Effie. My office. Now."

    Shirley shot Effie a worried look, but Effie just gave her a subtle, reassuring nod and followed Butler inside.

    "Mr. Butler, is there something you need?"

    She barely finished speaking before Butler mmed a file down on the desk with a loud thud.

    Effie had been bracing herself, but the sudden noise still made her flinch.

    With a cold voice, Butler said, "Effie, you know perfectly well what you did tond this contract."

    "Using tactics like that will only end up hurting you."

    Effie could tell he was holding something back, barely keeping his temper in check.

    Clearly, Butler had gotten the cold shoulder from Randell during yesterday''s meeting. After being humiliated there, he came back here to take it out on her.

    But Effie wasn''t anyone''s punching bag.

    She met his gaze and said deliberately, "So, Mr. Butler, is there an issue with the contract itself? Do you need me to revise it? Or-"

    ¡°That''s enough. Drop the act. I said everything I could yesterday, but Mr. Hoffman barely looked at me. He made it clear-he''ll only negotiate with you."

    Butler scoffed, his eyes full of disdain. "I''ve done my part. I even assigned a team to help you handle The Hoffman Group. If anything goes wrong, that''s on you. Don''t drag me down with you-use your head, Effie.¡±

    Effie had known from the start that Butler would never be able to steal her project.

    Now, he had no choice but to hand it over himself.

    But she also knew the type-someone like Irving Butler wouldn''t let it go that

    easily. She''d have to keep her guard up in case he tried to sabotage her from the shadows.

 Chapter 229

    Effie offered Irving Butler a polite smile and said, "Don''t worry, Mr. Butler. We''re all working for the good of thepany. I promise I''ll do my best."

    "Go on, then," Mr. Butler waved her off impatiently, barely concealing his irritation. His mind was already racing for ways to make things difficult for Effie-he wouldn''t let her off the hook that easily.

    As soon as Effie stepped out of his office, Shirley hurried over, her curiosity barely contained. ¡°Effie, what did Mr. Butler want with you?"

    Effie replied, "Oh, nothing much... He just reassigned the project to me as the lead, and formed a special task team. I''m heading it."

    "Wow!" Shirley blurted out, her voice shooting up in excitement before she could catch herself.

    Several heads turned their way, drawn by the outburst.

    Realizing she''d attracted attention, Shirley quickly mped a hand over her mouth, offering an embarrassed smile before leaning in to speak quietly with Effie again.

    From across the room, Nelly let out a cold snicker. "Look at her, practically bursting to let everyone know how shended that project."

    The office was never short on gossip, and with Nelly''s words hanging in the air, a few colleagues perked up like cats catching the scent of a secret. They clustered closer, eager for the inside scoop.

    "Nelly, spill it¡ªwhat''s the real story?" someone coaxed.

    Nelly had deliberately spoken just loud enough for others to overhear, clearly waiting for this moment. But she feigned reluctance. "It''s not really our ce to talk about other people''s business," she demurred.

    "Oh,e on, Nelly!" another chimed in. "She''s been walking all over youtely. Everyone can see it. Why cover for her?"

    "Exactly! I don''t see why you let her get away with it. If you won''t say it, I will!"

    These two were Nelly''s usual sidekicks¡ªthe kind who orbited her, always eager to curry favor. Nelly''s friendship with Irving Butler, the department manager, often meant the cushiest assignmentsnded in theirps, so it was no surprise they jumped to her defense.

    "Ma, let''s just drop it," Nelly said, putting on her best troubled expression.

    "No way, I''m saying it," Ma insisted. "If Mr. Butler gets mad, he can take it up with me. It''s got nothing to do with you, Nelly."

    Nelly sighed, making a show of stepping away, but it was clear she was giving Ma the go-ahead.

    Everyone''s attention now shifted to Ma, anticipation thick in the air.

    After ncing at Nelly, who had retreated just far enough to appear uninvolved, Ma began, "Yesterday, Mr. Butler and Nelly went to negotiate a partnership with The Hoffman Group. You all know-those two are the department''s veterans, the real heavy hitters."

    "But when Mr. Hoffman saw Effie wasn''t there, he exploded. He said if Effie wasn''t running the negotiations, the deal was off."

    "Think about it¡ªEffie''s just a neer. There''s no way she matches up to Mr. Butler and Nelly. They tried everything, but Hoffman wouldn''t budge an inch."

    "So why do you suppose Mr. Hoffman insists on Effie? Makes you wonder, doesn''t it?"

    Ma didn''te right out and say it, but the implication was obvious. The crowd exchanged knowing looks-they got the gist.

    "I never pegged Effie for that kind of person," someone muttered.

    "People will do anything to get ahead. If I had her assets, maybe I''d try seducing a client, too," another snickered.

    "Oh please, as if any boss would go for your baby bump," someone teased, andughter rippled through the group.

    Though the gossip was whispered in corners, the shift in people''s attitudes was obvious whenever they nced Effie''s way.

    Unaware of the rumors swirling around her, Effie gathered her team for the afternoon meeting. She''d scheduled it for two-thirty, but when the time came, only

    she and Shirley were there early. The rest of the group trickled inte, some well past the start time, making no effort to hide their indifference.

 Chapter 230

    Thest to arrive was Ma-she was a full hourte.

    "Sorry, everyone. Got held up with an old client. My boss on that project is a nightmare to deal with. This is the earliest I could make it," she said, breezing in.

    "No worries. Meeting''s over," Effie replied, standing up.

    The others exchanged bewildered looks, confusion written all over their faces.

    The meeting hadn''t even started-what was she talking about, calling it off now? It feltpletely absurd.

    Shirley was just as puzzled, but she''d learned to follow Effie''s lead. As soon as Effie left, Shirley quietly slipped out too.

    "What''s her problem? Calls us in here, says nothing, and now just sends us away? Who does she think we are?" someone grumbled.

    "Wait, seriously? She didn''t say a word? But you''ve all been in here ages!" Ma asked, genuinely curious.

    She''d seen Effie head in earlier; she''d deliberately dragged her feet beforeing in herself.

    Someone suddenly remembered, "Actually, Effie did say something earlier. She said we''re a team, and we don''t start meetings unless everyone''s here. She doesn''t want to repeat herself over and over. She also said that next time, we need to all be on time-she won''t give us more than three chances."

    Ma just scoffed, brushing off Effie''s words. "Please. Shends one deal and suddenly thinks she''s top dog? She''s got no idea who''s really running this show. Let''s see how far she gets without us. I''d like to see her try."

    "You didn''t see the way she just stared at us in the meeting room. Didn''t say a thing, just eyed us like she owned the ce. It was kind of eerie, honestly," another added.

    Ma rolled her eyes, thinking everyone was being overly dramatic.

    Afterwards, she went straight to Nelly and ryed everything that had happened. Nelly justughed. "Effie really doesn''t know her ce, does she? She seriously thinks one win means she''ll keep winning? That''s hrious."

    Ma, eager to please, chimed in, "Exactly! She doesn''t even realize where she stands. Sure, she seduced Mr. Hoffman tond the deal, but her skills are a joke. When the designse up short, she''ll have no choice but toe crawling back to you."

    Nelly smirked, clearly pleased by the thought. "I''ll make sure she does just that. She''ll be begging me for help."

    "Couldn''t agree more!"

    Shirley, on her way to grab some water from the break room, overheard their conversation.

    She froze in the doorway, then quickly retreated and hurried back to her desk. "Effie, we''ve got a problem," she whispered urgently.

    Effie calmly put down her stylus. "What''s going on?"

    Shirley ryed everything she''d just heard by the break room.

    "Effie, what do we do? If they gang up on you and refuse to work on the designs, this project is huge. If you''re left to do it all by yourself, there''s no way you''ll finish before the deadline. That could tank the whole deal-"

    Effie''s expression didn''t change. She looked serene, unbothered, as she reassured Shirley, "Don''t worry. This project will go smoothly. But first, I need to weed out a few bad apples."

    Shirley knew exactly who Effie meant.

    Even so, while Effie seemed confident, Shirley couldn''t help but worry.

    The next day, Effie once again called a meeting in advance, repeating the same rule: no meeting until everyone''s present.

 Chapter 231

    Ma still didn''t take it seriously. Everyone else was already seated, but she strolled into the conference room, coffee in hand, as if she had all the time in the

    world.

    Effie shot Ma a frosty nce and asked in a cold voice, "What''s your excuse this time?"

    "Do you have any idea everyone''s been waiting for you to start the meeting?" Effie pressed, her tone icy.

    All eyes turned to Ma, but she remained perfectlyposed. "It''s not like I did it on purpose. You could''ve just started without me. If I miss anything, I''ll askter."

    "I''ve said it before: we don''t start until everyone''s here."

    "Effie, you''re just a team leader, not the boss. Don''t act like you run the ce! If this dys the entire project, that''s on you!" Ma snapped back, her patience clearly fraying.

    Effie let out a sharpugh and gestured at the colleagues seated around the table. "Everyone else managed to show up on time. You''re the only one missing. Whose fault is that, really?"

    Ma opened her mouth to argue, but Effie was already standing, delivering her final words with a calm finality: "Three strikes, Ma."

    With that, Effie turned and walked out of the conference room.

    Seeing Effie leave, the rest of the team gathered their things and followed her out, leaving Ma fuming alone in the empty room. She clenched her jaw in

    frustration and stormed off toin to Nelly.

    Nelly, for her part, was more than happy to watch the drama unfold. The more chaos, the better. If the project went up in smoke because of their bickering, that would be just perfect for her.

    "Nelly, aren''t you going to talk to Mr. Butler about this?" Ma demanded, hoping Nelly would take her side and intervene.

    Nelly replied coolly, "Just wait. Now''s not the time."

    Ma had no choice but to nod. "Alright, fine."

    Later that afternoon, another meeting was scheduled. This time, Ma was actually anxious-she wanted to attend.

    She couldn''t get Effie''s words out of her mind: "Three strikes."

    Ma didn''t think Effie was bluffing. She genuinely believed Effie would kick her off the project.

    Just as Ma was about to get up and go, Nelly pressed a hand on her shoulder. "Rx, what are you so worried about? I''ve already spoken to Mr. Butler. He''ll sort it out."

    That reassurance was exactly what Ma needed. With her nerves soothed, she no longer felt the rush.

    By the time she finally made her way over to the conference room, she found the door locked from the inside.

    To make matters worse, the blinds had been drawn, so she couldn''t even see what was going on inside.

    Ma knocked urgently, but no one came to answer.

    Inside, everyone clearly heard the knocking and nced instinctively at Effie, waiting for her signal. If Effie had said the word, someone would have let Ma in immediately.

    But Effie acted as if she hadn''t heard a thing and continued leading the meeting.

    It wasn''t until the meeting ended that Effie and the others finally emerged from the room.

    Ma stormed up to Effie, practically shaking with anger. "Effie, what the hell? Why did you lock me out?"

    Effie gave her a cool, detached look, then tapped her watch. "I warned you. Three strikes. I gave you two chances. You chose not to take them."

    Ma was livid. She jabbed a finger at Effie. "Just wait. I''m going to talk to Mr. Butler about this!"

    She expected Effie to waver at the mention of Mr. Butler, but Effie remained perfectly calm, unbothered.

    "Go ahead," Effie replied.

    Grinding her teeth in frustration, Ma marched off to find Mr. Butler.

 Chapter 232

    "Mr. Butler, I need you to give me a fair judgment here."

    Ma was practically in tears, and Nelly quickly joined in, her voice sharp. "Effie is really out of line this time. She''s just the team lead-does that give her the right overrule you? How can she just kick someone off the team without your say-

    so?"

    Of course, Mr. Butler knew exactly what sort of underhanded games the two of them had been ying behind the scenes. Still, he wasn''t about to let on. Sometimes it paid to keep your cards close to your chest.

    Truth be told, he''d been looking for an excuse to get rid of Effie for a while now. Talented people were a dime a dozen, but someone like Effie-cocky after a few sesses, always refusing to take orders¡ªwell, the sooner she was gone, the better.

    "I''ll have a word with her," Mr. Butler said, his tone grave. "She''ll get a warning." Just then, his office phone rang.

    It was a call from the executive office. Apparently, Mr. Randell was in the building today and wanted to hold a meeting himself to hear how the project was progressing.

    "Yes, understood. I''ll have the project manager prepare right away," Mr. Butler replied, hanging up with an unreadable look in his eyes.

    He turned to Ma and Nelly. "This might be our chance to drag Effie down for good. But you''ll need to follow my lead. Here''s what we''ll do..."

    Ma listened intently, inwardly marveling at how Mr. Butler was using someone else''s authority to do his dirty work. What a move-brilliant, really!

    She could only hope that this time, they''d finally be able to kick Effie out for good.

    *

    Randell was about to head downstairs when Lyman stood up from his desk as well.

    Randell didn''t need to ask to know what Lyman was up to, but he yed dumb. "Oh? Heading somewhere, Lyman? Got something urgent?"

    "I''ming with you to the meeting," Lyman replied coolly. "I want to see if the design department has been keeping up their end."

    Randell almost burst outughing. Lyman always looked so serious, but who knew what he was really thinking?

    "Come on, Lyman, you''re the boss. Surely you don''t need to micromanage every little thing," Randell teased.

    Lyman shot him a frosty look. "Does it matter to you?"

    Randell''s smirk wavered. He could tell Lyman was losing patience, and if he pushed any further, he''d probably find himself kicked out of the office.

    "Our dear Lyman, always the hands-on leader. The employees must love you," Randell joked, then made a quick exit before Lyman''s scowl could deepen.

    *

    It didn''t take long for Lyman and Randell to make their way to the design department.

    The moment the staff saw both bosses walk in together, a hush fell over the room. Most of them could only stare, wide-eyed and anxious.

    Only Randell seemed amused, knowing full well that Lyman''s so-called

    "inspection" was nothing more than a thinly veiled personal errand.

    Sure enough, Lyman''s gaze swept the room before settling on Effie, standing near the back of the group.

    Effie could feel the intensity of his stare, and when she finally looked up, her eyes locked with his. For a split second, she could have sworn he smiled at her.

    "What now? Mr. Etheridge is here too," Ma whispered nervously to Nelly.

    Nelly shot Ma a look, signaling her to keep calm, and whispered back, "What''s there to be scared of? If the boss is here, it''s even better. This way, Effie''s bound to get herself fired."

    Ma hesitated, then her eyes lit up with excitement. That''s right. She''d almost forgotten about that possibility.

    *

    "Thank you, everyone. I know you''ve worked hard to put together such a solid proposal on such short notice," Randell said, his tone warm and inviting. "Now, could we talk through some of the details? I have a few thoughts, but I''d appreciate advice from the real experts."

    Irving Butler stepped forward with a reassuring smile. "Of course, Mr. Hoffman. We''re all professional designers here you can count on us to impress you."

    As he spoke, Irving nced over at Effie, a calcting glimmer in his eyes.

 Chapter 233

    Effie could see the calcting look in Irving Butler''s eyes, but she didn''t let it bother her.

    When the time came, she''d handle whatever he threw at her. Let''s see who has

    thestugh.

    Irving Butler continued, "In just a few days, Effie''s already held three team meetings. It''s clear she''s taking this project seriously."

    No one else on the team spoke up. No one was about to expose their own shorings.

    Then Ma stepped forward. "That''s not true, Mr. Butler," she said.

    Ma gave her story a dramatic twist, iming she''d tried so hard to fit in with Effie''s group, but her own workload was overwhelming, so she''d beente. ording to Ma, Effie had canceled two meetings for personal reasons, using Ma''s absence as an excuse, and for the final meeting, she''d used the excuse of "third time''s the charm" to kick Ma out of the group altogether.

    As she spoke, Ma''s voice trembled and her eyes turned red, as if she''d suffered some terrible injustice. She turned away, dabbing at her eyes. "I really did try, I did so much research for this project," she said.

    Ma pulled out a folder she''d prepared, holding it out as proof.

    If Randell still didn''t realize Ma was trying to drag him into this, he''d have to be a fool.

    "Oh? Is that so?" he replied, reaching out a hand toward Ma.

    But just as he was about to take the folder, he suddenly pulled his hand back. Ma, caught off guard, fumbled the folder and it fell to the floor.

    "I''m sorry, I''ll pick it up right away," she stammered, stooping down in a hurry.

    "I don''t need it," Randell said coldly. "I have no interest in reading work prepared by someone who throws her own teammates under the bus."

    Ma froze, looking up at Randell in shock. "Mr. Hoffman, I don''t understand..."

    "Whether you really don''t understand or you''re just pretending, only you know," Randell replied, his voice icy.

    He turned to Lyman. "Lyman, I''m honestly surprised you''d allow someone so toxic into yourpany."

    Honestly, did they really think they could pull one over on Effie? Did they have a death wish?

    He nced at Lyman, as if asking for approval.

    Lyman spoke coolly. "In that case, she''s fired."

    Ma stood stunned for a moment, then hurried toward Lyman, only to be blocked by his assistant.

    "Mr. Etheridge, please, I''m innocent, I swear!" Ma sobbed, her tears streaking her makeup until she looked like a tragic clown.

    But no one paid her any mind.

    "You''re saying I''m falsely using you?" Randell''s tone was sharp as ss.

    Ma realized toote that she''d said the wrong thing, but she had nowhere left to turn. "Mr. Hoffman, I know you and Effie¡ª"

    Damn it!

    Irving Butler shot Ma a furious re¡ªwas she out of her mind?

    If she blurted out something so reckless, Randell would only get angrier, and the whole design department would be finished. And as department manager, Irving would be first in the firing line.

    He barked, "Ma, have you lost your mind? You''ve been shirking your responsibilities, missing meetings, and now you turn around and nder your colleagues? That''s enough!"

    "Pack your things and get out. Now!"

    Ma struggled, trying to say something else.

    But just then, Nelly appeared, grabbing Ma''s arm and leading her away without another word.

    "Nelly..." Ma whimpered, her voice trailing off down the hallway.

 Chapter 234

    With a sharp smack, Ma''s cheek stung from the p, leaving herpletely stunned.

    Clutching her face, she stared at Nelly in disbelief, her voice trembling. "Nelly..."

    Nelly red at her. "Do you have any idea what you almost did? You nearly got us all killed! Randell and Mr. Etheridge have been best friends since they were in diapers. You just aired his dirtyundry in front of half the office-what did you think would happen?"

    "If he gets furious, we''ll all be caught in the fallout."

    Ma thought bitterly that "everyone" Nelly was talking about had nothing to do with her anymore. Why should she care?

    It was as if Nelly could read her mind. "Don''t be stupid. As long as Mr. Butler''s still around, you''ve got someone to help you. But now that he''s left thepany, he''s got his own problems to deal with he won''t be able to save you."

    "When that timees, who''s going to bail you out?"

    Ma finally gave in, her resistance fading away for the moment.

    Nelly let out a quiet sigh of relief. At least she''d managed to keep Ma from blowing things up-at least for now.

    By the time Ma figured things out and made another scene, Nelly would be able to im she was just making up stories. No one would believe her.

    Meanwhile, Effie and the others had already filed into the conference room for the meeting.

    After what had just happened, Irving Butler was well aware of how Randell felt about Effie, so he didn''t push her any further.

    Effie, representing her team, spoke with confidence and rity, her insights sharp and original.

    In just an hour or two, she and her colleagues pulled off an impressive brainstorming session; their design was already beginning to take shape.

    When sheid out part of the initial draft in front of Randell, he was genuinely moved.

    He nced at Lyman, who was gazing at Effie with obvious infatuation. Suppressing a grin, Randell quietly pulled out his phone, nning to snap a picture and share it with the group chat.

    Let everyone see-the famously stoic Lyman, finally showing some emotion for once!

    But just as he raised his phone, Lyman''s eyes snapped to him, cold and alert. Randell chuckled awkwardly, whispering, "Lyman, you looked so cool just now-I couldn''t help wanting to take a picture."

    Lyman arched an eyebrow in disbelief; he didn''t buy a single word.

    "Tell me the truth," Lyman said, voice low and steely.

    Randell surrendered. "Honestly, you should''ve seen yourself totally lovestruck staring at Effie. Good thing everyone else was too focused on her to notice."

    "If not, your little secret marriage would be all over thepany by now." Lyman shot him a frosty re. "And how do you know I don''t want them to know?" Randell nearly choked on his own spit, staring at Lyman in shock. "Wait... so you mean-Effie''s the one who wants to keep it a secret?"

    He honestly hadn''t seen thating.

    All this time, Randell had assumed Lyman was embarrassed by Effie''s background and didn''t want to go public. He never imagined Lyman would''ve gone public ages ago, if only Effie agreed.

    Randell almostughed out loud at the irony-here Lyman was, trying to sneak around, all because Effie wouldn''t let him announce it.

    ¡°Mr. Hoffman, what do you think of this direction for the design?" Effie''s question snapped Randell back to attention.

    She''d noticed both Randell and Lyman zoning out toward the end of her presentation, and she couldn''t help but wonder if her ideas didn''t measure up, if Randell was dissatisfied.

    "I''m very impressed," Randell replied immediately.

    Effie frowned, still uncertain.

 Chapter 235

    Effie wasn''t exactly satisfied with Randell''s response.

    She didn''t want him to praise her design simply because he was doing a favor for Lyman. What Effie truly hoped for was genuinemunication with her clients¡ªa chance to create something they would honestly love.

    She wasn''t interested in making a piece that someone would only tolerate, or worse, never wear out in public at all. That would be a waste-not just of her own time and effort, but of Randell''s money as well.

    "Mr. Hoffman, if you have any other thoughts or suggestions, please let me know. I''m more than willing to make adjustments," Effie said, looking directly at him.

    "It''s best we discuss everything openly while we''re all here," she added.

    Shirley, who''d been quietly observing, almost wanted tough. She''d been ready to say how Randell, despite seeming difficult at first, actually turned out to be the dream client-easygoing and agreeable in the end! She''d seen a designer break down in tears after a client forced her through more than a dozen rounds of revisions, debating the cement of every tiny ent stone. And after all that, the client decided the very first version was best. The poor designer had to sneak off to the restroom to cry once they''d finally left.

    Truly, being a designer wasn''t easy.

    So to Shirley, working with someone like Randell-a client who didn''t demand endless revisions-felt like a gift from above. And yet, Effie didn''t seem entirely pleased?

    Randell found Effie''s insistence a little odd. He genuinely liked the design, so why change it?

    "It really is great," he insisted.

    Effie replied, "Mr. Hoffman, once the design is finalized, there''s very little room for changes. That''s why it''s so important for us tomunicate thoroughly right from the start; that''s how you get the best possible result."

    Irving Butler watched Effie and couldn''t help thinking there must be something between her and Randell. Anyone else speaking to Randell like that would''ve triggered his infamous temper-but somehow, Effie got away with it.

    Randell leaned toward Lyman and muttered, "Your wife''s really professional."

    He''d originally meant to say "interesting," but worried that Lyman-who was famously protective of his wife-might take offense, so he settled for "professional" instead.

    Lyman raised an eyebrow. "Thanks for thepliment."

    Randell clicked his tongue. Shameless-getting so smug just because someone praised his wife, as if thepliment were for him. You''d think his grin would split his face in two.

    In the end, though, the meeting went smoothly.

    After Effie submitted the final design, Randell approved it immediately and scoured the globe to find the perfect jewels for her creation.

    Their coboration paid off: the finished piece was a resounding sess.

    For the first time, Randell was truly impressed by Effie''s talent.

    He turned to Lyman and said, "Lyman, I have to hand it to your wife-her professionalism is absolutely top-notch. Honestly, I thought she was new to this, and that her designs would need endless revisions before they''d meet my standards."

    "I only agreed to try because she was your wife, but I have to say, I''m genuinely impressed."

    "Hey, Randell," someone chimed in, "you hired Lyman''s wife for your design project? Why didn''t you tell me? I want in, too!"

    "Me too..."

    What started as a casual get-together between friends suddenly turned lively. The group had been chattingfortably-well, except for Lyman, who''d spent most of the evening texting and grinning at his phone like a lovesick teenager. Now, with this new bombshell, everyone''s curiosity was piqued.

    The table erupted with excited chatter.

    Lyman finally set his phone down and, in a rare moment of seriousness, fixed everyone with a cold stare. "No. Absolutely not. Don''t even think about it."

 Chapter 236

    Everyone stared at Lyman, momentarily stunned.

    "Why not?" someone finally asked.

    Lyman looked around at them, his expression full of disdain. "Because you all hog my wife''s attention and I barely get any time with her."

    The group gaped at him, then quickly protested. "Lyman, that sounds so wrong! Don''t say stuff like that!"

    "Exactly! Anyone listening in would think I''m stealing your wife or something," Randell added with a snort.

    Everyone knew the unspoken rule: you don''t mess with a friend''s wife. No one here was that desperate.

    Lyman just shrugged. "Doesn''t matter. You''re all banned from hanging out with her."

    "Alright, alright, we get it, you hopeless romantic," Randell said, rolling his eyes. "If you don''t want your wife overworked, just say so. Why drag us into it?"

    Suddenly, Vinson Elliott chimed in, "Well, Lyman, you and Effie never even had a honeymoon. Why not let Randell organize a trip? You two can take it as ate honeymoon."

    Lyman shot Vinson a withering look. "Why would I want a crowd of third wheels on my honeymoon? I''m not crazy."

    Vinson was left speechless. He had to admit, Lyman had a point-but did he really have to be so dismissive?

    Randell burst outughing. "Nice one, Vinson. Great idea you had there."

    Vinson red at Randell as if to say, "Fine, you do better."

    Randell was never one to back down from a challenge.

    "Alright, I will!" he dered. Then he turned to Lyman. "My new resort on Whisperhollow Isle is about to open. I''m inviting the design team for a little celebration. You''re okay with that, right?"

    "No problem," Lyman replied.

    Vinson just sighed there was no stopping them now.

    "So it''s settled, then," Randell said.

    News spread quickly that the project team was going on a trip, and everyone else was green with envy. Nelly was especially upset, her face twisted in frustration.

    "Ugh, why can''t I go?" she whined to Irving Butler, pouting.

    Irving was just as annoyed. He''d tried to take over the project himself, knowing Randell was always generous with his team. But this? A free resort vacation? He hadn''t seen thating. And now, he was left out in the cold.

    Not everyone could get a piece of the pie, it seemed.

    ...

    "Need a hand?"

    Shirley saw someone struggling to lift a water cooler jug. She rushed over, eager to help.

    But the woman barely nced at Effie and Shirley before snapping, "No, I''ve got it!"

    She mmed the jug onto the dispenser with extra force, making a loud bang that startled both Shirley and Effie.

    Shirley pulled a face at Effie, making herugh.

    Effie understood perfectly well what was going on, but she couldn''t be bothered to

    care.

    Randell had only invited their small group because they''d done the hard work and finished the project. The others hadn''t contributed-why should they get to tag along?

    As Leni walked past Shirley, she suddenly stopped and said sourly, "If you''ve got so much free time, maybe fix the coffee machine for once? It keeps acting like it''s about to take off."

    Shirley blinked in confusion. "What? I just used it-everything was fine! The espresso pulled, the steamer worked... When did it break?"

    Effie, on the other hand, caught Leni''s drift immediately.

    She tugged Shirley away. "Come on, just ignore her."

    A little farther down the hall, Shirley whispered, "What''s her problem?"

    "She''s just jealous, but she won''t admit it, so she''s got to take it out on us."

 Chapter 237

    Shirley finally snapped out of her daze. Fuming, she rolled up her sleeves and spat, "Give me a break! Who does she think she is, calling me a helicopter parent? Has she even looked in the mirrortely?"

    "Effie, don''t try to stop me. I''m going over there to teach her a lesson."

    Effie regarded Shirley calmly. "I''m not stopping you."

    Shirley stared, momentarily speechless.

    This... wasn''t the reaction she''d expected.

    Just then, Irving Butler strode over to Effie. "Effie, there''s a dinner tonight. The client loved your design and wants to meet you. Come with me."

    Effie didn''t object this was part of her job, after all.

    As soon as Irving stepped outside into the hallway, he spotted Nelly approaching.

    He frowned with clear irritation. "What are you doing here? Didn''t I tell you? At work, keep your distance from me."

    Nelly bristled inwardly. In the beginning, he couldn''t get enough of her-wanted to spend every minute together-and now he acted like she was a nuisance? Typical.

    Still, she knew what was really going on. Irving had his eye on someone else.

    Too bad for him, Effie already had something going on with Randell. Until she figured out whether Effie and Randell were really over, Nelly wasn''t about to make

    a move.

    Men are all the same.

    Swallowing her annoyance, Nelly forced a smile. "I want toe to the dinner tonight. Mr. Patterson''s business is a big deal for thepany, and I want to give it my best shot."

    Irving considered it. Nelly''s designs were solid; if Effie dropped the ball, Nelly could step in.

    "All right, you cane."

    "Thank you, darling."

    With no one else around, Nelly leaned in, aiming for a quick kiss, but Irving pushed her away.

    "We''re at work!" he hissed, his brow furrowed in frustration.

    She''s lost her mind, he thought.

    Nelly just scoffed to herself and slipped back into her office.

    That evening, they all arrived together at the private club.

    The Pattersons hadn''t shown up yet, so Nelly, Effie, and the others waited in a secluded lounge.

    Nelly announced she was thirsty and poured tea for Effie and Irving.

    "I''ve heard the tea here is really something. Let''s give it a try-after all, thepany''s picking up the tab," she said with a sly smile.

    Nelly eyed Effie''s modest little hatchback in the parking lot, and her nondescript clothes-except for that one showy silk scarf, the rest were no-name brands. Clearly, Effie wasn''t used to the finer things. She''d probably jump at the chance for something expensive.

    Effie was, in fact, thirsty and wouldn''t have minded a cup of tea.

    But she was no fool. Nelly, being so eager to pour her a drink, surely had something up her sleeve.

    So Effie left her cup untouched. When a server entered and Nelly and Irving''s attention shifted, she quietly swapped her own cup with Nelly''s.

    Nelly turned back just in time to see Effie lift the tea to her lips. Nelly''s mouth curled in a satisfied smirk, certain her little scheme had worked.

    She picked up her own cup-now actually Effie''s¡ªand drained it in one go.

    "Mmm, this green tea is so delicate. Delicious," Nelly said, clearly in high spirits. Effie''s lips curled in a faint smile. "It''s quite good."

    Nelly watched Effie''s calm expression and sneered inwardly. Let her enjoy it while she can she won''t be smiling for long.

    Just then, a server ushered Mr. Patterson and his wife into the room.

 Chapter 238

    "Sorry I''mte-traffic was a nightmare on the way here," Mr. Patterson said with an easy smile as he entered the room.

    Irving Butler, ever the charmer, quickly replied, "Oh, not at all, Mr. Patterson. You''re right on time; we just got here a bit early ourselves."

    The response seemed to genuinely please Mr. Patterson, who let out a shortugh.

    Irving then took a moment to introduce Effie and Nelly to Mr. and Mrs. Patterson.

    As soon as Mr. Patterson saw Effie, he said, "My wife couldn''t stop admiring the ne Mrs. Hoffman was wearing earlier. She fell in love with that style, heard it was designed by Bagnold, and now she''s hoping to get something beautiful for herself as well."

    Effie smiled warmly. "Thank you, Mrs. Patterson, for appreciating my work. I''d be delighted to design a piece just for you-something that matches your style and wishes."

    "Really? That would be wonderful!" Mrs. Patterson replied, clearly excited.

    Nelly gave a discreet little cough and nced at Irving for help.

    Catching her hint, Irving added enthusiastically, "Actually, ourpany has quite a few talented designers, and Nelly is one of the best. She''s brought along some of her own pieces today, too."

    He turned to the couple with a friendly grin. "You should take a look at both of our collections. Who could ever have too much beautiful jewelry, right?"

    His words made perfect sense; after all, a little healthypetition never hurt anyone.

    Mrs. Patterson reached out to take Nelly''s tablet, but just as her hand hovered above it, an unmistakable sound cut through the air¡ªa loud, sputtering noise, like someone had just let one rip.

    Instantly, a foul smell began to spread through the private dining room. It was pungent, overwhelming, and impossible to ignore.

    Nelly froze, mortified, caught between sitting down and bolting from her chair. Her stomach had been unsettled all afternoon, churning with difort, but she''d forced herself to hold it together. Unfortunately, when she stood up to hand Mrs. Patterson the tablet, her body betrayed her, and the long-restrained gas escaped with a noisy flourish.

    The sound was followed by another burst, and then another-each just as embarrassing as thest.

    "Oh my goodness, how awful!" Mrs. Patterson eximed, pping a hand over her mouth and nose, her face contorted in distress.

    Nelly wanted nothing more than to sink through the floor. Her stomach was now in open revolt. "Excuse me I need the restroom," she blurted, and half-ran out of the room, a trail of mortifying noises following her.

    She was so ashamed she wished she could disappearpletely.

    Just then, Mr. Patterson''s phone began to ring. The ringtone, a dramatic, swelling melody, seemed to underscore the chaos. Combined with the lingering odor and Nelly''s retreat, it was too much¡ªthe rest of the group scrambled for the door, desperate for fresh air.

    A waiter hurried in to clear up, only to gag audibly several times. It was undoubtedly the most traumatic experience he''d ever had on the job.

    "I''m so sorry, Mr. Patterson, Mrs. Patterson," Irving apologized, his tone genuinely flustered. "I have no idea what happened, but I''m sure Nelly didn''t mean for any of this. Sometimes these things just... happen."

    He''d barely finished speaking when Mrs. Patterson doubled over, retching again.

    It was awful. Absolutely awful.

    Effie stepped in, trying to salvage the situation. "We''re truly sorry about all this. Why don''t we move to another room and start over? We''d love the chance to host you properly."

    Mr. Patterson, still picturing the chaos from just minutes ago, felt his appetite vanish. He was about to politely decline when Mrs. Patterson squeezed his hand,

    her eyes hopeful. "Let''s give it another try," she pleaded softly.

    Mr. Patterson adored his wife; they''d always been close.

    "All right," he agreed with a resigned sigh.

 Chapter 239

    "Sorry, but all our private rooms are fully booked today-except for one..." The hostess nced at Effie and her group, clearly ufortable.

    Irving Butler stepped forward and said, "Then just give us the one that''s left."

    They''d alreadye all this way. The guests had finally agreed to stay, and if they tried to switch restaurants now, it''d be a real hassle.

    Besides, this was the only ce nearby with reliably good food, a favorite haunt of the wealthy and well-connected.

    The hostess bit her lip, ncing nervously at Irving. "It''s not that we don''t want to help, but... Thest room is reserved exclusively for Mr. Etheridge, CEO of the Etheridge Group. Unless he gives explicit permission, we''re not allowed to let anyone else use it."

    Irving blinked in surprise. He thought, Well, if it''s our CEO''s private room, surely it''s fine to use it for entertaining some importantpany guests.

    He patted his chest and said confidently, ¡°Let me check with Mr. Etheridge."

    Of course, he''d never dare call Lyman Etheridge directly; instead, he dialed Lyman''s assistant.

    Effie, meanwhile, was eager to secure the room and get the meeting underway- she didn''t want any morest-minute surprises ruining their chances.

    She stepped away from the group, phone in hand, and called Lyman herself.

    Lyman saw her name sh on his phone and answered without hesitation. "Hey, sweetheart, are you done for the day?"

    As soon as he spoke, a chorus of teasing voices erupted nearby. He turned to see Randell and his buddies making a spectacle, all waggling their eyebrows and grinning.

    With a steely nce, Lyman shut them up instantly; an awkward silence fell over the table.

    Effie heard themotion on the other end and felt herself blush, as if she''d be the punchline to their joke.

    She took a steadying breath and tried to sound calm. "Not yet. Something came up, and now we need to find a new private room. Is your suite at Elliott''s Cozy Room free right now? I was hoping we could use it for a bit."

    Lyman had thought Effie was done for the night and was just about ready to ditch these rowdy bachelors to go see her.

    But hearing she was still busy, he replied, "Of course. I''ll let the staff know. Next time, just go straight there¡ªyou don''t need to call."

    Effie understood what he was implying and quickly added, "No need to make a big deal out of it. Just say it''s for a friend. No need to mention me."

    She wasn''t ready to reveal her connection to him, not in front of these people.

    Lyman agreed, not caring how she wanted to handle it; whatever she asked, he''d go along with.

    With the problem solved, Effie headed back to the lobby.

    At the same time, Irving Butler finished his call with Lyman''s assistant and was waiting for a response.

    Effie approached the hostess and said, ¡°Hi, I''ve also made a call about the room. Could you please check?"

    "Just a moment," the hostess replied.

    Irving walked over, curiosity piqued. "Effie, who did you call? You have Mr. Etheridge''s number?"

    Effie''s eyes shed with a hint of caution. Of course she couldn''t admit she had Lyman''s number.

    "I don''t have Mr. Etheridge''s contact, but I do have Mr. Hoffman''s. We''ve worked together before. He said he''d speak to Mr. Etheridge for me."

    Irving frowned, displeased. "Who told you to take matters into your own hands? By going over Mr. Etheridge''s head and asking his friend to intercede, you''re just making things moreplicated-and now you owe Mr. Hoffman a favor. Is that something you can pay back?"

    His anger masked something deeper: he was upset because Effie had stolen his thunder.

    And, beneath it all, he was jealous. Jealous that Effie might actually have gotten close to Randell. After all, who else would pull strings like that after just one coboration?

 Chapter 240

    Effie''s brows knit in subtle annoyance as she replied to Irving Butler, "Mr. Butler, there''s really no need for you to trouble yourself with this. We''re both just trying to keep the clients happy, aren''t we?"

    Irving let out a dismissive snort.

    At that moment, Lyman''s assistant called back, informing them that the private dining room had already been taken by one of Lyman''s friends.

    But then, to everyone''s surprise, the front desk staff greeted Effie and her group with unusual warmth, ushering them straight toward the very room in question.

    If Irving Butler still hadn''t figured out what was going on by now, he really was as dense as a brick.

    Face tense, Irving trailed after the group. Once inside the private room, he forced a nonchnt smile, anxious not to let the Pattersons see through his unease.

    There was no denying it-Lyman''s private suite was in a different league altogether.

    The room wasn''t muchrger than the others, but the interior exuded old-world charm. Instead of seeing a table and chairs upon entering, guests were met by a handcrafted wooden screen fitted with disy shelves, artfully obscuring the view beyond. Anyone passing by could only catch a teasing glimpse of whaty inside.

    The shelves themselves were lined with genuine antiques-none of them cheap replicas. Each piece was worth a small fortune.

    Apparently, these were gifts from people hoping to curry favor with Lyman. If he liked something, he took it home; if not, it found a ce here.

    Beyond the screen stood a table of polished hardwood, surrounded by six chairs just right for Lyman and his brothers, who often gathered here. Any more seats would have made the room feel empty.

    Effie had visited once before, so she took it all in stride.

    For Irving Butler and the others, though, it was their first time. They couldn''t help but gawk at the paintings on the walls and the treasureden shelves, eyes darting from one marvel to the next.

    Aplicated emotion flickered across Mr. Patterson''s face. He wasn''t exactly unsessful in his own right, but he''d never let himself get too smug-there was always someone higher up thedder. Yet, standing here, he realized that things Lyman dismissed as worthless would be considered priceless treasures in his own world. He still had a long way to go to catch up.

    He''d have to keep working harder, that much was clear.

    Irving Butler, meanwhile, was floored by his boss''s wealth. Any one of these "cast- offs" could probably buy a house back in his hometown.

    Once they were seated, the servers brought out a parade ofvish dishes, far beyond anything they''d seen in the other private rooms-this was a whole new level.

    There were wild sea bass, enormous lobster tails, ck truffles-foods Irving Butler had only ever heard about on TV, never mind actually tasted.

    Even worldly Mr. Patterson found the meal a bit overwhelming.

    "Effie, did you order all this?" Irving muttered under his breath, eyeing the spread nervously. This had to be way over thepany''s meal budget. He certainly wasn''t going to cover the extra cost.

    Effie understood immediately-Lyman must have been worried she wouldn''t eat well, so he''d ordered the best for them. "I''ll pay for anything over the budget," she assured him quietly.

    Irving just snorted again, thinking to himself that Effie could act so generous only because she''d managed to cozy up to Randell. What was so impressive about that? Still, he kept his thoughts to himself.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, all the dishes are served. Please enjoy your meal," the server announced with a polite bow.

    Mr. Patterson motioned the server over and asked quietly, "Excuse me, how much is this meal? I''d like to pay."

    They were all just regr employees, after all¡ªhow much could they really

    afford? Just getting the chance to dine here was a rare treat.

    The server smiled. "No need, sir. This is a gift from our owner."

    "Your owner?"

 Chapter 241

    The owner of Elliott''s Cozy Room was Vinson Elliott, who also happened to be Randell''s childhood friend.

    Which meant, of course, that Vinson had probably sent the gift as a favor to Randell.

    A flicker of something unreadable passed through Irving Butler''s eyes.

    Lunch wrapped up, and Effie''s conversation with Mr. Patterson seemed to have reached a satisfying conclusion.

    No one mentioned Nelly''s abrupt disappearance halfway through the meal. It was as if they''d silently agreed to pretend it never happened-otherwise, they might have lost their appetite.

    Effie and Irving Butler escorted Mr. Patterson outside.

    Just then, Nelly suddenly reappeared, havingposed herself¡ªat least on the surface.

    She stormed over to Effie, her voice a furious hiss. "Effie, you bitch! Why did you set me up?"

    Effie sidestepped Nelly''s lunge with ease, catching her wrist in a swift, practiced motion. "Those who hurt others will only end up hurting themselves," she said coolly.

    Nelly''s face went pale. She stared at Effie, panic flickering in her eyes. Did Effie somehow know about the pills she''d slipped earlier?

    But she''d been so careful-no one could have seen her do it! How did Effie find out?

    Just then, a car pulled up to the curb beside them.

    The passenger window rolled down, revealing Randell in the front seat. "Effie, get in," Randell called.

    Effie hesitated for only a moment, then caught the slight nce Randell shot toward the back seat. Understanding dawned on her-Lyman must be inside. She nodded, hurried to the car, and slipped inside before anyone could react.

    Both Nelly and Irving Butler craned their necks, curiosity written inly on their faces.

    If Effie and Randell were close, why was Randell riding up front? Who was sitting in the back?

    But before either of them could get a good look, Effie mmed the door shut behind her.

    The car sped away, leaving the two standing there in a cloud of exhaust.

    Nelly red after them, then turned to Irving Butler, fuming. "Tell me, do you think Effie''s going to take your ce one day?"

    "That woman is way too ambitious."

    Irving Butler stayed silent, but Nelly''s words gnawed at him.

    She wasn''t wrong. Effie was ambitious-relentlessly so.

    She''d gone out of her way to spark up a conversation with Randell, using that connection like a trump card in front of the guests.

    It was obvious that, once back in the private lounge, Effie had dazzled the Pattersons-discussing everything from art history to jewelry design-while Irving was all but forgotten in the background.

    He''d never imagined someone like Effie could be so well-versed in so many things, or carry herself with such confidence.

    Even he found himself drawn to her, despite himself.

    But deep down, he knew: she just wasn''t into him. With Randell in her corner, Effie would never spare him a nce.

    And if she seized the chance to climb even higher, he''d be the one packing his things and heading for the door.

    All the more reason he couldn''t let Effie stay at thepany.

    Nelly, reading him like a book, knew she''d swayed him.

    She sidled up closer, hips swaying provocatively.

    But the moment she got near, Irving recoiled, a look of utter disgust on his face. He pped a hand over his mouth and nose. "Stay away from me! You stink."

    Nelly froze, dumbfounded. She sniffed herself in disbelief. "Impossible. I''ve showered a dozen times..." Her skin was raw from scrubbing!

    Irving instinctively took several steps back. "Get yourself a cab home."

    With that, he turned and bolted down the sidewalk.

    Nelly stamped her foot in fury, grinding her teeth so hard she thought they might crack.

    ...

    Effie had barely set foot in the car before she spotted Lyman inside.

 Chapter 242

    Not wanting Nelly and Irving Butler, who were just a short distance away, to catch sight of Lyman, she quickly mmed the door shut with a loud bang.

    At that moment, Randell turned to Effie. "Effie, Lyman''s had a bit too much to drink," he said.

    Drunk?

    But Effie could only smell a faint hint of alcohol on him.

    Suddenly, Lyman''s hand moved and grabbed Effie''s.

    Because Randell had just said Lyman was drunk, Effie was startled by the sudden grip on her hand. She nearly jumped out of her seat.

    "What''s wrong?" Randell asked, not turning around. Effie''s status always made him hesitant to look her directly in the eye; it just didn''t feel quite right.

    Effie quickly replied, "Nothing, it''s fine."

    With that, she shot Lyman a brief, puzzled look.

    Lyman nced at her, a sly smile tugging at his lips. He winked, then closed his eyes again, leaning his head onto her shoulder.

    His hair tickled her neck, making her squirm a little. Without thinking, she reached up to smooth it out for him.

    Just then, Randell noticed how quiet it was in the back seat. He finally nced over his shoulder-and instantly felt a pang of jealousy.

    Effie was carefully fixing Lyman''s hair, her movements gentle, her eyes filled with unmistakable affection.

    Ah, love really does make people worry over nothing, he thought.

    Why on earth did Lyman ever doubt that Effie loved him?

    Of course, Randell had no intention of telling Lyman that. Let him figure it out himself!

    Soon, they pulled up in front of the house Effie and Lyman shared.

    Randell got out, preparing to help Lyman upstairs.

    Lyman, supposedly drunk, was impossibly heavy. Randell remembered hauling him out to the car earlier¡ªit had felt like dragging a dead whale, not a man. The effort had nearly wiped him out.

    If Effie tried to help, she''d probably be crushed under his weight.

    "I''ve got him," Randell said to Effie.

    She hesitated. "Are you sure? Really, it''s not necessary..."

    Lyman wasn''t even drunk, after all.

    Randell waved her off. "Don''t worry about it. Lyman and I go way back. I''ve got this."

    As Randell tried to pull Lyman out, Lyman clung to Effie like an octopus, arms locked tight. No matter how hard Randell tugged, he couldn''t pry him loose.

    Randell paused, hands on his hips, catching his breath. "What on earth is going on here?" he muttered.

    Effie gently patted Lyman''s cheek. "We''re home," she said softly. "Come on, let''s go inside."

    Lyman mumbled a reply, swaying as he stood, but kept himself pressedfortably against Effie. To her surprise, she barely needed to support him at all -he walked with her easily.

    Randell, trailing behind, let out an exaggerated sigh. "I''m starting to think Lyman''s just faking it!"

    Effie thought, Sorry, but you''ve hit the nail on the head.

    Once inside the elevator, Lyman immediately straightened up, dropping the drunken act entirely.

    "Why were you pretending to be drunk?" Effie asked, raising an eyebrow.

    He grinned. "If I didn''t, how else could I make sure I came home with you?"

    Effie blinked in surprise, a faint blush rising to her cheeks. She looked away, mumbling, "Um...well... home, then."

    A momentter, she frowned. "Why is it taking so long to get upstairs?"

    Lyman arched an eyebrow. "In a hurry to get home, are we?"

    That''s when they both realized they''d forgotten to press the elevator button for their floor.

    They exchanged a sheepishugh and quickly pressed the right button. The elevator finally began to rise.

    Even though Effie and Lyman had been married for some time now, and their rtionship had grown steadily warmer, tonight felt different. Effie couldn''t shake the feeling that the way Lyman looked at her was burning with a special intensity.

 Chapter 243

    Effie had barely opened the door when Lyman spun around and pulled her inside.

    With a sharp bang, Lyman pressed her against the door, mming it shut behind them.

    Startled, Effie froze. In the dim light of the foyer, she saw Lyman''s intense gaze fixed on her, his dark eyes swirling like twin vortices, drawing her in.

    Maybe the alcohol was to me, but there was a hazy, dreamlike quality in his eyes tonight, something softer than his usual sharpness. The shadows softened the angles of his face, making him look almost gentle.

    Effie''s breath caught in her throat. She stared up at him, forgetting to breathe at all. Her eyes-deep, luminous, almost shimmering-were impossible to look away from.

    Lyman reached out, his hand cupping the back of her head, gently pulling her closer.

    She tumbled into his arms, feeling the heat of his body even through the thin barrier of fabric between them.

    His other hand tilted her chin up-and then he stole her breath and her words with a kiss.

    Effie let out a soft, involuntary gasp. "Mmm..."

    Her whisper was as light as a feather, brushing over Lyman''s nerves and making his eyes darken further. He closed his eyes, deepening the kiss, hungry and desperate as if he''d been starved for her.

    He was a wolf, ravenous and wild, devouring her every response until she was left dizzy in his arms.

    ...

    The next morning, when Effie arrived at work, she wore a silk scarf wrapped carefully around her neck.

    This time, it wasn''t just for style-it was to cover the marks she definitely didn''t want anyone seeing.

    Not that Nelly would dare say anything now, even if she noticed.

    At lunch, Nita asked Effie to join her.

    Effie agreed readily.

    Nita, who worked in sales, was always out meeting clients; she only reached out because she happened to be near The Etheridge Group today.

    "Effie, over here!" Nita waved from across the street.

    Effie spotted her and hurried over, grinning.

    "Today''s on me," Nita announced. "I''m in a terrible mood, so I''m treating you to sushi."

    Effie''s eyes widened. Nita was usually the thrifty type; every penny she saved after living expenses went home to her family. This was unprecedented.

    Effie reached out and yfully touched Nita''s arm. "What''s going on? Is hell freezing over?"

    Nita shot her a look. "Come on, don''t joke. I''m really not in the mood."

    Effie could see she meant it-Nita''s smile was nowhere to be found.

    Effie relented, cheeks flushing. "Alright, alright. If you''re that down, let me treat you instead. Whatever you want, it''s on me."

    But Nita shook her head stubbornly. "No way. I said I''m treating you, and that''s that."

    Effie figured something must have happened to really upset her friend, so she decided not to push and just be there to listen.

    They headed to a new sushi ce nearby, only to find a line stretching out the door and down the block.

    "Why is it so crowded?" Nita frowned.

    Effie nced at her watch. "You have to get back to work soon. Maybe we should pick somewhere else?"

    But Nita was adamant. ¡°No, I want sushi today."

    Effie shrugged and fell in line beside her, resigned to her fate and determined to keep Nitapany no matter what.

    Suddenly, a visibly pregnant woman walked up to the entrance and asked, "Excuse me, is there a priority line for expectant mothers?"

    The hostess nced at the slight swell of her belly and shook her head apologetically. "I''m sorry, ma''am. Since we serve mostly raw dishes-like salmon and tuna sashimi-we generally don''t rmend them for pregnant women."

 Chapter 244

    Suzan''s eyes darkened, a flicker of anger darting across her face. Her voice suddenly shot up an octave. "Why can''t I go in? Are you discriminating against pregnant women? I''m posting about your shady business online-everyone''s going to hear about this!"

    The waitress paled, clearly rattled. She''d only meant to be helpful, but who could have guessed she''d run into someone like Suzan?

    Desperate, the waitress nced at Mitchell, silently pleading for help.

    Mitchell was at a loss. They''d just been out shopping when Suzan suddenly insisted on sushi. He''d tried to talk her out of it, but she wouldn''t budge, so here they were.

    "Suzan, why don''t we just go home? I''ll have it delivered by air if you want," Mitchell suggested gently.

    "I don''t want to!" Suzan snapped. "I want it now! Your son says he wants it now, too!"

    Mitchell could only sigh. Turning to the waitress, he asked, "Is there any way you could make an exception? Pregnant women can''t stand around for too long."

    "I''ll go check," the waitress replied, hurrying off.

    A momentter, she returned with good news. "You can wait by the entrance. As soon as a table opens up, I''ll seat you right away."

    Suzan''s lips curled into a sly, triumphant smile.

    "Wait-Suzan''s pregnant?" Nita stared, wide-eyed, at Suzan''s protruding belly. "You sure that''s not just a belly full of junk food?"

    Effie chuckled softly. "Nope, it''s not an act. She''s definitely pregnant."

    "Wow, she''s pretty far along!" A sudden realization crossed Nita''s face, and her expression shifted. "So that means... they must have been together way earlier than we thought."

    Nita nced at Effie, but Effie''s face was calm, untouched by drama.

    "Effie, are you really okay with this?"

    "How could I be okay?" Effie admitted, her voice steady. "The day I found out she was pregnant, it was like a bolt from the blue. I was disgusted. He was with me and messing around with Suzan at the same time."

    She shrugged, a bittersweet smile tugging at her lips. "But then I realized, maybe it''s a blessing in disguise. At least I found out what kind of person he is before it was toote. I got out while I still had options. Maybe that''s not such a bad thing."

    Nita reached out and pulled Effie into a hug. "Come here. Think of it as getting bitten by a dog-you just patch yourself up and move on."

    She knew Effie was putting on a brave face, but there was no way she hadn''t been hurt.

    "It''s fine," Nita said reassuringly. "It''s all in the past now. Come on, let''s go eat somewhere else."

    "I thought you said you liked this ce?"

    Nita shrugged. "It''s not like I have to eat here. Honestly, I''m just in a bad mood today. I saw a post my brother made-he''s out with friends, eating expensive sushi, and he''s picking up the tab. It''s been a whole year since he graduated, and he still hasn''t bothered to find a job. He just spends our parents'' money."

    "He never thinks about saving or how hard Mom and Dad work. So Imented on his post, told him to think about our parents for once. And he blew up at me¡ª said parents are supposed to take care of their kids, and if they couldn''t afford it, they shouldn''t have had him. He even said he never asked to be born and doesn''t exactly enjoy life anyway."

    "If he gets to live it up without a job, why can''t I?"

    Effie knew Nita often squabbled with her brother, but for her to be this upset, something else must have happened-something Nita wasn''t ready to talk about yet.

 Chapter 245

    "Well, if it isn''t my dear sister!"

    Suzan was just about to head inside when she caught sight of Effie out of the corner of her eye.

    She called out, smug and loud, "Sister, you here for sushi too? The line''s pretty long today¡ªit''ll be ages before you get a table."

    Suzan paused, then added with feigned generosity, "But hey, if you don''t mind, you could tag along with me and my son and skip the wait."

    Mitchell''s gaze drifted over Suzan''s shoulder,nding on Effie.

    He hadn''t seen her in a while, and somehow she looked even better than before.

    A pang of resentment twisted in Mitchell''s chest. How was it that Effie could leave him behind and end up doing just fine-maybe even happier than she''d ever been with him?

    "Why does it smell so awful in here?" Nita suddenly broke the tension.

    Effie nodded. "Yeah, it really reeks."

    Nita wrinkled her nose. "It''s like wet dog. I''ve lost my appetite before I even sat down."

    "Let''s get out of here," Effie suggested.

    "Absolutely, let''s go."

    With that, Effie and Nita strode off, heads held high. Watching them leave so cheerfully, Suzan was practically shaking with rage.

    She stamped her foot, shrieking, "Ugh! They''re driving me crazy!"

    When Mitchell didn''t react, Suzan shot him a re. "Why didn''t you stand up for me?"

    Mitchell''s patience finally snapped. He frowned at Suzan and said, "What exactly did you want me to do? Get into a shouting match with them? Admit you''re a homewrecker? Sometimes, the best thing to do is keep quiet."

    If Suzan had really thought she could hold her own, she would''ve spoken up back there instead of sulking in silence.

    And now she was taking it out on him?

    "But I''m the mother of your child. You just watched them bully me and didn''t say a word? Shouldn''t you have defended me?"

    Mitchell noticed people starting to stare, a few even raising their phones to record the scene.

    He muttered, ¡°Let''s go. Stop making a spectacle of yourself."

    "I''m not going anywhere! I didn''t do anything wrong-why should I leave?" Suzan snapped, stamping her foot again.

    Mitchell''s scowl deepened, his patience worn thin. "Do whatever you want."

    Without another nce, Mitchell turned and walked away, not sparing Suzan a single look.

    Suzan red after him, her face so tense it looked like she might burst into tears or bite through her own lip.

    She''d seen how Mitchell used to grovel and fuss over Effie-never mind what they were fighting about, he''d do anything to win her back. He was humble, almost desperate.

    But he''d never done that for Suzan. All she ever got was the cold shoulder and his bad moods.

    Her eyes burned as she choked out, "Would it kill you tofort me for once? Just once?"

    Turns out, love¡ªor theck of it was painfully obvious.

    Not that Suzan was ready to admit it.

    She drew a shaky breath, wiped her eyes, and hurried after him, calling, "Mitchell, wait up!"

    Effie and Nita ended up at a cozy little noodle shop-the same one Shirley had brought Effie to a while back.

    "I told you, lunch is on me. Stop worrying about the price," Nita said, waving off Effie''s protests.

    Effie smiled. "I wasn''t trying to save you money. I just really love the noodles here. I suddenly had a craving."

    If that was what Effie wanted, Nita wasn''t about to argue.

    Their order arrived: steaming bowls of thick, savory broth with hearty noodles and

    an assortment of seafood nestled on top. The aroma was mouthwatering, and both women dug in with relish.

 Chapter 246

    The aroma of the noodle soup was mouthwatering, and the vor was even richer than its scent promised. Just a single sip of the broth was enough to make it impossible to stop.

    In no time at all, Nita had polished off the entire bowl.

    Even after finishing, she still felt unsatisfied, wishing there was more.

    "That was delicious," Nita sighed, halfughing. "Looks like someone like me is only meant to eat cheap food."

    She set down her spoon and continued, "Honestly, I never liked sushi. I just can''t stand raw food. There was this one time at a department dinner, we went to this all-you-can-eat ce. I saw a long line and figured it must be good, so I joined in. Turned out, all I got was three slices of salmon sashimi."

    "I took one bite¡ªit was just like eating raw fat. And that wasabi? The taste shot straight up my nose, made me feel like I was going to die right then and there. After that, I just couldn''t eat the rest. I wrapped the other two pieces in a napkin and threw them away when no one was looking."

    "I really don''t get why people love sushi so much. But that''s just my opinion."

    Effie patted Nita''s hand gently. "You don''t have to force yourself to fit in just because other people like something."

    Nita gave a soft "mm" of agreement, then looked down at her empty bowl. "But... what about families you don''t like? Can you just... not belong to them?"

    Effie sensed there was more to Nita''s words than just food. She wrapped her arms around Nita and rubbed her back, soothing her. "We don''t get to choose our parents. But now that we''re grown, we do get to choose the life we want to live."

    "Take my dad, for example. He''s a real piece of work. Every time I see him, I curse him out and tell him to stay far away. I''m not letting him mess with my life anymore."

    Nita looked at Effie and managed a small smile. Sometimes she really envied Effie; at least when someone like Shepard turned out to be a terrible father, Effie could just refuse to acknowledge him.

    But her parents weren''t quite the same. They did their duty as parents-they never abandoned her, never mistreated her, even though she was a girl. They gave her money, sent her to college.

    She studied hard, won schrships, stopped asking them for money, even managed to send some back home.

    She used to think she was lucky, that her life was different from other girls in her vige.

    But one day, she overheard her parents whispering. That was when she realized: in their eyes, she was nothing but a cash machine.

    They were leeches, determined to squeeze everyst drop of value out of her.

    She remembered them saying how fortunate they were to have a daughter, because her little brother''s wedding, the new house, the renovations, even their own retirement¡ªall of it would be paid for with her money.

    Nita''s voice was quiet as she spoke. "Today, my mom called just to yell at me. She said I had no right to criticize my brother in public. Then she told me they used the money I sent home to build a new house-two and a half stories. The first floor is the living room, dining room, and a bedroom for my parents. The second floor is for my brother and his future wife."

    Talking about it made Nita''s chest feel tight.

    "I was actually happy at first," she went on. "I asked my mom, what about my room? I figured if there wasn''t one for me on the first or second floor, maybe that little half-story up top would be mine. But she just told me I didn''t have a room. Because I''m a girl, and I''ll get married and leave, so there''s no need to give me a ce in the house at all."

    Nita looked up at Effie, tears stinging her eyes. "Effie, do you think girls ever really have a home when they grow up?"

 Chapter 247

    Effie didn''t want to offer Nita any of those empty, sugarcoated reassurances-the kind that went, "Your parents love you too, it''s just that your little brother needs more attention right now."

    Maybe deep down, that''s what Nita wished someone would say. After all, she''d never truly managed to break free from that kind of family. If she really didn''t care, she wouldn''t be hurting so much.

    But the harsher reality was, the more brutal life became, the clearer you had to see it. Otherwise, Nita''s family would drain her dry, body and soul.

    Effie grinned. "Well, in that case, just stop loving them. Give all your love to me instead! As your best friend, I promise I''ll look after you when we''re old and take care of you for the rest of your life."

    Nita let out a dramatic wail, then flung her arms around Effie, nuzzling her shoulder. "Guess I''ll have to count on my rich bestie, then!"

    "Anytime, babe." Effieughed.

    Nita joined in,ughing too. She looked bubbly and carefree, but Effie could see the ache behind her smile.

    Suddenly, Effie brightened. "Hey, why don''t we take a quick vacation tomorrow? Just the two of us."

    "A vacation? I don''t know. I have work tomorrow..."

    "It''s the weekend! Why are you even working? Is your boss some kind of ve driver? Seriously, I''ll call HR right now and file aint!"

    "No, no, please don''t!" Nita protested. "I really need this job. I finally made it to sales manager after all these years-I can''t just start over from scratch."

    "You''re still saving up for your family?"

    Nita shook her head. "Not anymore. I''ve given up on them. But all my savings went to them before, so now I''m broke and miserable. I want to save something for myself for a change."

    "One or two days won''t make a difference. Come on, you need a break. And if you''re short on cash, remember-you''ve got your loaded best friend right here."

    Nitaughed again. "Right! How could I forget about my rich bestie?"

    "So take a day off tomorrow. Come have some fun with me!"

    "Alright, you win."

    The next morning, Nita was up early and waiting outside Effie''s building, suitcase

    in tow. She''d even stopped to buy fresh pastries from the bakery downstairs: warm, golden, ky, and delicious.

    Not knowing whether Lyman liked them, she''d bought extra just in case.

    Effie and Lyman came downstairs to find Nita already waiting.

    "Nita, you''re here so early! We were just about to pick you up," Effie said, surprised.

    Nita shrugged. "Couldn''t sleep! It''s been ages since I went on vacation, so I figured I''de early."

    "Oh, and I brought you some of those pastries you love."

    Effie''s eyes lit up. "You got them from that little bakery downstairs? They''re my favorite-crispy and buttery. I could eat a dozen of these."

    "There''s plenty, so help yourself. And I brought some coffee too."

    "Thank you, sweetheart."

    Nita''s smile faltered for a split second. She leaned in and whispered, "Uh, you don''t have to call me ''sweetheart'' in front of your husband. He might get jealous."

    She''d tried to keep her voice down, but Lyman had still overheard. He smiled politely. "It''s alright-I don''t mind."

    "In that case, here, have a pastry." Nita handed him one.

    Lyman took it awkwardly. "Th-thanks."

    Nita noticed his hesitation-he didn''t seem all that interested. Suddenly, she realized: Lyman came from money; maybe he wasn''t into the simple stuff regr people liked.

    She hastily added, "Honestly, you don''t have to eat it if you don''t want to."

    Lyman nced over at Effie, who was already devouring her pastry with relish. "No, it''s fine. I want to try it too."

    If Effie liked it so much, then he figured he should at least give it a try.

 Chapter 248

    Nita waspletely stunned, staring at Effie in disbelief.

    Mitchell had never liked her hanging out with Effie. He looked down on her because she came from a working-ss family-her father ran a farm, and she never learned to speak with the polish Mitchell expected. She was blunt, sometimes even tactless.

    Whenever Mitchell saw her, he''d put on a sour face. Once or twice, he''d even raised his voice on purpose, right in front of her, asking Effie why she bothered inviting "people like that" out with them.

    It used to make Nita furious, but she swallowed her anger for Effie''s sake. She didn''t want to make things harder for her friend, so she endured it, pretending not to care.

    Looking back now, Nita realized Mitchell''s attitude toward her had always been a reflection of how he felt about Effie. He never respected Effie, never loved her deeply, so it was no wonder he''d turn his nose up at Effie''s best friend.

    But Lyman was different. Lyman adored Effie, and so he epted everything- and everyone that came with her.

    After a quick bite to eat, the group headed to the airport for their flight to Whisperhollow Isle.

    Effie didn''t travel with her colleagues this time. She wanted to bring Nita along, and she knew if she joined thepany group, someone would inevitably use her of taking advantage ofpany perks.

    When they arrived at Whisperhollow Isle, the air was warm and heavy with the scent of the sea. The sky stretched wide and blue, dotted with fluffy white clouds, and the sunlight sparkled off everything, making the ind feel like a dream.

    They checked into the Azure Crown Resort, a hotel with its own private stretch of beach-immactely kept, soft white sand meeting the endless blue of the sea and sky. It was beautiful, almost unreal.

    Effie and Lyman had arrived ahead of the others; the rest of thepany group hadn''tnded yet.

    Just then, Vinson Elliott showed up. He spotted Nita, who was grinning as she strolled over to Effie with aplimentary drink from the lobby. The moment he recognized her, his expression darkened.

    "Miss Nita, what are you doing here?" he demanded. "Didn''t I tell you to take your vacation days?"

    Nita jumped, startled her hand jerked, sshing cold juice onto her fingers. The chill snapped her to attention.

    She stammered, "B-boss..."

    Effie turned her gaze on Vinson, eyes sharp as daggers.

    Vinson suddenly felt a chill run down his spine. He spun around to find Effie ring at him, her anger practically crackling in the air.

    His heart skipped a beat. What had he done to upset Effie? He honestly had no idea.

    Effie marched over and confronted him. "So, you''re the ve-driving boss she''s alwaysining about?"

    Vinson blinked, confused. "ve driver? Where''d you get that from?"

    Nita hurried to step between them, terrified Effie might actually take a swing at her boss.

    She said quickly, "Effie, you''ve got it all wrong!"

    Effie raised an eyebrow. "Didn''t you just call him your boss?"

    Nita nodded. ¡°Yeah, but he only just became my boss. Mypany merged with Mr. Elliott''s firm recently, so now he''s technically in charge."

    Vinson finally caught on. "Effie, you''ve got the wrong idea! I''ve never treated her badly. When I got the employee files, I actually read through them carefully. I was shocked to see she''d never taken a vacation in years-always volunteering for overtime, never taking weekends off. I even called her in and told her she needed to rest, not work herself to death. But she just said she was fine, that she could handle it."

    "Thenst night, she messaged out of the blue to ask for time off. I was worried sick, thought maybe she''d gotten ill or something. When she said she just wanted to travel, I finally rxed."

    He exined all this in a rush, desperate to clear up the misunderstanding¡ª especially with Lyman standing nearby. No one wanted to get on Lyman''s bad side.

    Effie narrowed her eyes, as if weighing his words, her mind clearly turning something over.

 Chapter 249

    "So, are you trying to date our Nita?" Effie blurted out suddenly.

    Vinson Elliott nearly choked, spluttering his drink everywhere.

    Nita rushed to exin, "Effie,e on-don''t make things up! We''re just boss and employee, that''s all!"

    Vinson managed an awkward smile. "Well... if I ever did want to date Nita, I''d be upfront about it and tell you."

    "That won''t be necessary," Effie replied matter-of-factly.

    An awkward silence passed between Nita and Vinson, both averting their eyes.

    "Effie, let''s go surfing!" Nita announced, grabbing Effie''s wrist and dragging her away before Effie could even react.

    As they jogged down the beach, Effie gave Nita a puzzled look. ¡°Since when do you know how to surf?"

    Nita let out a nervousugh. "I don''t, but that''s what lessons are for, right? Who says you have to be an expert to give it a try?"

    The truth was, Nita just needed an excuse to escape the ufortable atmosphere with her boss. She had no idea that, as she pulled Effie away, Lyman stood behind them, watching their retreating figures with a deep, forlorn sigh.

    Vinson elbowed Lyman and said, "Lyman, don''t look so heartbroken. Anyone who didn''t know better would think your wife just ran off with someone else."

    Randell shot Vinson a look. "What do you mean ''think''? That''s exactly what just happened his wife *did* get stolen."

    Finally, Lyman snapped. "Would you both just leave me alone?"

    Vinson and Randell took the hint and fell quiet, stretching out on their beach chairs to soak up the sun and sip on fresh coconut water. Life didn''t get much better than this.

    "Randell, I''ve got to admit this resort you built is pretty impressive," Vinson said. "Super rxing. Though, maybe it''s just because you''re newly opened, but there aren''t many guests around."

    Randell shrugged. "Location wasn''t ideal-by the time I started looking, all the prime beachfront was taken. This was all that was left. But there''s a perk: we''ve got that natural bay. I''ve already applied for a permit to build a small marina, so soon, guests can take a boat straight to that ind over there."

    He paused, warming to his subject. "If you''re a resort guest, the ferry ride''s free. Outsiders have to buy a ticket, though..."

    Randell kept talking, but his gaze slid over to Lyman, who was still distracted, eyes fixed on Effie in the distance.

    Effie and Nita weren''t surfers-not yet, anyway. Today was their first lesson.

    Nita, ever the daredevil, insisted on trying wake surfing right off the bat, dragging Effie along for the ride.

    After watching the instructor demonstrate a few times, Nita was practically bouncing with excitement.

    "Effie, remember-when it''s my turn, take some good photos, okay? Catch me looking bold and badass!"

    Effie grinned. "Sure, sure, I''ll do my best. But, quick reality check-maybe everyone else looks cool out there, but for us beginners, it''s more about survival than style, don''t you think?"

    Nita rolled her eyes. Sometimes Effie could be brutally honest.

    "Oh, hush,¡± Nita retorted, then dered, "How hard can it be? I''ll pick it up in no time!"

    When it was finally their turn, Nita stepped up first.

    The instructor smiled. "Let me give you a quick demonstration-it''ll be a little

    slower than usual, so keep an eye on my movements, okay?"

    Nita waved him off. "No need, really¡ªI''ve already got the basics down."

    Effie raised an eyebrow. "You sure about that?"

    The instructor chuckled. "You might want to reconsider. Even with all the safety gear, you''re bound to swallow some seawater your first time out."

 Chapter 250

    Nita patted her stomach with a grin. "Heh, then I''m not worried at all. Nobody in this world can out-eat me."

    Effieughed. They were here for the experience, after all. If Nita was that confident, might as well let her have a go.

    Worst case, they could always try again.

    Nita waded into the water and made her way to the starting spot. She reyed the coach''s demonstration in her mind: lie back in the water, feet up on the board, grab the tow rope, and pull herself up¡ª

    "Effie, look! I did it!"

    But before she could finish boasting, she toppled straight into the water.

    "Nita!"

    Effie jumped in rm, almost dropping her phone, and rushed over, ready to jump

    in and drag Nita out.

    Just then, Nita''s head bobbed up, sputtering. "I''m fine!"

    Her face was as pale as a sheet, though she tried to act tough.

    Effie looked at her with concern. "Are you sure you want to keep going?"

    Nita answered, "Of course! Why wouldn''t I?"

    She kept at it, wiping out again and again, never managing to stand up. Nita had swallowed so much water she was practically full.

    So much for "picking it up in one go." For her, it was more like "one lesson and I''m done for."

    She sprawled on the side of the boat, dry heaving.

    The coach asked, "Had enough water yet?"

    Nita blushed. "Halfway there."

    She looked sheepish. "Coach, could you maybe walk me through it again?"

    If she''d known it would be like this, she wouldn''t have bragged so much earlier.

    This time, Nita listened to the coach''s instructions with the utmost attention, and Effie stood by, paying close attention too.

    "Got it?" the coach asked.

    Nita gave a mock salute. "Tiny surfboard, easy as pie."

    Effie nodded, pretending she''d understood it all too.

    But whether execution would be as easy as it sounded that was another matter.

    At first, Nita still couldn''t get to her feet. But after several more tries, she managed to slowly pull herself upright by the rope.

    Thrilled with her progress, she lost her grip on the rope and tumbled back into the water, swallowing another mouthful before being hauled back on board.

    "Ugh..."

    Effie burst outughing. "Chumming the water for fish?"

    Nita grinned weakly. "That''s right. Just grab ater-you''re bound to scoop up a haul."

    The coach chuckled at their banter. "You two are a riot."

    Effie and Nita exchanged a look andughed. "We''ve had plenty of practice," they said.

    Who would''ve thought? Back in school, they were always fighting for first ce- rivals at first sight, and now thick as thieves.

    "Effie, your turn!" Nita called.

    Effie hesitated. "I''m a little nervous."

    "No way. You''veughed at me enough times. It''s only fair I get tough at you too."

    Nita nudged her toward the water.

    She knew Effie actually wanted to try, just needed a little push.

    Effie was anxious, but she recalled the coach''s instructions and decided to give it a shot.

    Suddenly, there was a loud snort from nearby. Vinson Elliott couldn''t hold back hisughter. ¡°Look at those two over there-they look like a pair of drenched puppies, butts in the air, swallowing half theke."

    He''d been distracted by his phone and hadn''t realized he was talking about Effie and Nita.

    But he quickly realized his mistake.

    "Alright," Lyman cut in suddenly, "let''s talk numbers. How much are you looking to invest?"

    Randell''s lips curled in a satisfied smirk. He''d worked hard to get Lyman to this meeting-now, finally, his chance hade.

 Chapter 251

    "As you wish," Randell replied with a shrug.

    He knew perfectly well that making a deal with Lyman was always a safe bet- Lyman never lost out.

    Lyman said calmly, "Fine. I''ll hand over the investment I promised Vinson Elliott to you instead."

    He made it sound so casual, but Vinson Elliott nearly had a meltdown. He shot upright from his lounge chair. "Lyman,e on, I screwed up, okay? I really messed up!"

    Lyman just stared at Vinson Elliott, silent and unmoved.

    Randell had seen this routine plenty of times. Lyman getting angry? Nothing new there. But ever since Effie came into Lyman''s life, those explosive moments had be a lot rarer.

    Love, Randell thought, really does mellow a man out.

    Turning to Lyman, Randell said, "Lyman, don''t scare him like that. He''s about to burst into tears."

    Vinson Elliott snapped, "Randell, are you crazy? As if I''d start crying over this."

    He scoffed, ring daggers at Randell, and for a second it looked like the two of them might actuallye to blows.

    But Lyman''s attention was already drifting, caught by a figure farther down the shore.

    Effie.

    She was just a beginner, but she was already standing steady on her board, clutching the tow rope, her face set in cool concentration. Lips pressed together, eyes fixed ahead, she looked every bit the picture of confidence-almost heroic. "Wow!" Randell whistled. "Effie''s killing it! Isn''t this her first day? She picked it up fast."

    Vinson Elliott''s eyes narrowed. "Wait a second, this reminds me of someone..." He nced toward Lyman.

    Lyman had always been the stuff of nightmares for him¡ªa living legend, the guy whose grades were always at the top, not just in academics but in everything else too.

    Back when the three of them first tried wakeboarding together, Lyman had mastered it in a snap. After just a couple of tries, he could let go of the rope and surf the waves with perfect bnce. Vinson Elliott and Randell had both been convinced Lyman must have practiced in secret, but Lyman denied it, and, knowing his personality, they actually believed him.

    "You two are unbelievable," Vinson Elliott muttered, shaking his head. "It''s almost scary."

    A smug little smile yed on Lyman''s lips. "Of course."

    Vinson Elliott cursed inwardly. Show-off.

    Suddenly, Lyman stood up and headed toward the water.

    Vinson Elliott scrambled after him. "Lyman, you''re not really pulling the plug on my investment, are you?"

    Lyman replied, "We''ll see."

    Vinson Elliott looked like he was about to cry for real. He pped himself lightly on the mouth. "Why can''t you ever keep your mouth shut?"

    Randell burst outughing. "Vince, you missed your calling as aedian. If your mouth wasn''t where it is, where would it be? Your... lower half?"

    Vinson Elliott aimed a kick at Randell. "Hey, I''ve got a mouth down there too, you know. Don''t you? Or how do you... take care of business?"

    Realization dawned on Randell, and he chased after Vinson Elliott, swinging at him. "You''re disgusting, you know that?"

    By now, Lyman had already reached the shore.

    Effie had just stepped off her board when Lyman reached out and caught her hand.

    Her legs wobbled, and she stumbled into his arms. "Thanks," she whispered.

    It was her first time wakeboarding, and the whole experience had been so thrilling

    her legs were still jelly by the time she got back to solid ground.

    Who would have guessed that her coolposure out there on the water was all an act? Thank goodness Lyman showed up when he did-falling over in front of everyone would have been mortifying.

 Chapter 252

    "Don''t say thank you."

    Lyman looked at Effie. A faint blush swept across Effie''s face and she answered shyly, "Alright, I know."

    At that moment, Nita hopped down from the bench andnded gracefully on the floor.

    "I''ll stop ying third wheel," she said with a grin. "Time for me to make myself scarce."

    Effie called after her, "Nita, wait up¡ªlet''s go shower and change together."

    Nita nced briefly at Lyman, about to refuse, but Effie had already linked arms with her and pulled her away.

    Before long, the two of them reappeared, freshly dressed.

    Just then, the door to the neighboring men''s changing room swung open, and a man emerged wearing nothing but a pair of ck swim trunks. His gut bulged so much he looked almost nine months pregnant.

    "Miss Nita?" The man''s face lit up with surprise. "Well, would you look at that! What are the odds we''d run into each other here? Fate works in mysterious ways!"

    Nita''s expression soured instantly, her brows knitting in frustration. Just my luck, she thought. Of all people, I had to bump into him here.

    Effie noticed the change in Nita''s face and leaned in to whisper, "You know him?"

    Whether she did or not, Effie''s instincts screamed that this guy was trouble. She tightened her grip on Nita''s arm, ready to whisk her away.

    Nita gave a weary nod and murmured, "His name''s Hanley. He''s a creep-always getting handsy when we talk business."

    Effie''s eyes narrowed. Was Nita ever alone with this guy? She hoped not.

    Reading Effie''s mind, Nita added, "Don''t worry. Mypany knows what he''s like. We always send men to deal with him. Clearly, he hasn''t given up."

    "Let''s go," Effie said.

    "Yeah," Nita agreed.

    But Hanley had already noticed Effie standing beside Nita, and his eyes gleamed with interest.

    If Nita was a knockout, her friend was something else entirely.

    Effie''s looks and figure were top-tier. Hanley''s mind raced with possibilities, convinced that a night with her would be unforgettable.

    He lumbered over, surprisingly nimble for his size, and stepped in front of them, blocking their way. "There''s an old saying," he announced with a smarmy grin, "fate brings people together from a thousand miles apart."

    Effie and Nita exchanged a nce, both silently gagging at the thought. Who needed fate when it brought creeps like this?

    They tried to slip past him, but despite his bulk, Hanley moved fast. He reached out and grabbed the hem of Nita''s shirt. "Miss Nita, is this how you treat your guests? No greeting, no hospitality?"

    With no choice, Nita turned to face him, forcing a stiff smile. "Mr. Hanley. What a coincidence."

    Hanley leered, inching closer, his grip on her shirt tightening. He was so close, Nita could barely breathe; every cell in her body recoiled in disgust.

    "Let her go!" Effie shouted.

    Hanley''s gaze flicked to Effie, lingering far too long on the way her chest heaved with anger. He looked mesmerized.

    "Sure," he said, lips curling into a sleazy smile, e over here and I''ll think about it."

    "Try me¡ªI''ll call the police," Effie snapped, voice cold as steel.

    Hanley just shrugged, unfazed. "Go ahead. I''d love to see whether the cops believe me or you two."

    Nita''s eyes zed with fury. "She''s Lyman-Mrs. Etheridge. Do you really want to mess with Mr. Etheridge''s wife?"

    For a moment, Hanley froze. But then, he justughed.

 Chapter 253

    Hanley said, "Mr. Etheridge has never been married. If he ever tied the knot, the whole world would know. If you want to make excuses, at leaste up with a better one."

    With that, Hanley grabbed Nita by the arm and dragged her toward the changing

    room.

    Nita struggled, but his grip was irond.

    Effie tried to rush over to help, but Nita shouted, "Effie, run! Don''t worry about me!"

    With a desperate look, Nita urged Effie to go get help and not to risk herself. Hanley sneered, "Didn''t expect Miss Nita to be so self-sacrificing."

    He yanked Nita inside, mming the door behind them.

    Effie stumbled forward, ready to dash off for help, when suddenly Nita''s cry of pain pierced the air.

    There was a heavy thud, the sound of a body colliding with something solid.

    Effie''s heart clenched. She nced around frantically and spotted a fire rm case nearby, a fire extinguisher inside.

    Without hesitation, she smashed the ss and grabbed the extinguisher.

    The moment she pulled it free, the fire rm red through the building.

    Effie didn''t care. Clutching the extinguisher, she charged into the room.

    She sprayed Hanley straight in the face, blinding him. Nita seized the moment, kicked Hanley hard, and spat through gritted teeth, "That''s what you get forying a hand on me!"

    Hanley copsed to the ground, writhing in agony.

    "You okay?"

    Nita bit her lip and shook her head. Her back throbbed where she''d hit it, but she didn''t want Effie to worry, so she insisted she was fine.

    Neither of them expected Hanley to go down so easily-one kick and he wasn''t moving.

    As they hurried out, they nearly collided with Lyman, Vinson Elliott, and Randell, all standing in the hallway.

    "You... all came?" Effie stammered, mortified that they''d witnessed such a mess. She nced at Lyman, worried he might be angry.

    "I"

    Nita cut her off, "You''d better check on that creep inside. He tried to attack us, so we taught him a lesson."

    Vinson and Randell strode in and found Hanley sprawled on the floor, blood staining his trousers. Both men winced, instinctively crossing their legs.

    Vinson turned to Randell. "Did... did she crush his-?"

    Randell nodded, "Wouldn''t be surprised. He''s out cold from the pain. Anything''s possible."

    "I''ll handle things from here," Randell said.

    When they came back out, Nita looked at them anxiously.

    Randell gestured downward. "Might be... broken. He''s bleeding."

    Nita froze. She hadn''t thought she kicked that hard. Was she just so scared she didn''t realize her strength?

    "Who did it?" Vinson asked, a strange mix of awe and sympathy in his voice. "That was... impressive."

    Nita opened her mouth, but Effie quickly jumped in. "It was me. I kicked him."

    Vinson shot a sympathetic nce at Lyman, his eyes drifting to Lyman''s lower half.

    Better watch your step, Lyman, he thought. Make her mad, and you''ll end up just like Hanley.

    Nita stared at Effie, confused.

    Effie whispered, "You don''t know anything, okay? He dragged me inside, and I was too scared not to kick him, got it?"

    She''d asked Hanley who he was earlier-turns out, he was a local from Neo- Arcadia. His own status wasn''t much, but his wife was another story.

    Rumor had it her family was far from clean¡ªthey''d wed their way up by any means necessary.

    Supposedly, Hanley''s wife was fierce, notorious for her temper, and never hesitated to get physical.

 Chapter 254

    If Hanley''s wife ever found out that someone had kicked her husband''s jewels into oblivion, she''d be out for blood.

    Nita was just an ordinary woman-if trouble came knocking, odds were she''d be the first to get hurt. But Effie was different. She was Lyman''s wife. People ought to be afraid of crossing her.

    Besides, Effie couldn''t exactly wash her hands of what happened. If she hadn''t sted Hanley with the fire extinguisher, he never would have dropped his guard, and Nita wouldn''t have had a clean shot to kick him where it hurt.

    Nita nced at Effie, licking her lips. She understood the offer Effie was making, but did she really want to ept it?

    Yet, in this moment, everyone assumed it was Effie''s fault. That was why they were all so eager to clean up the mess. Nita felt a pang of guilt. Deep down, she knew if they realized she was the one who''d actually done it, their enthusiasm for helping would probably vanish.

    "Let the hotel manager handle things here. Let''s get out of here," Randell said.

    Lyman reached for Effie''s hand and asked gently, "Walk with me for a bit?"

    "Sure."

    Vinson Elliott and Randell watched as Lyman and Effie wandered off, hand in hand, along the beach. Vinson pulled a face. "Lyman''s be so boring since he started dating. Look at him-just strolling around like an old man."

    Randell snorted. "Exactly. What''s so fun about walking? I''d rather y cards."

    "Cards?"

    Nita had just taken a sip of water to calm her nerves, but her interest piqued at the mention of cards.

    "You y cards?" Vinson asked, raising a brow.

    "I didn''t use to, but after I started working, I had to learn everything to schmooze with clients. Poker, rummy, ckjack-you name it, I can y it. So, what''s your game?"

    "Well, look at that¡ªa real pro." Randell and Vinson exchanged a look. Usually, it was just the two of them ying, and they were sick of it. Now, with a new yer, things sounded a lot more interesting.

    "Come on, let''s y."

    "Sure, let me finish my water first," Nita replied.

    Vinson grinned at her. "After all that saltwater you swallowed earlier, you still need a drink?"

    Randell chimed in, deadpan, "You know, seawater''s full of well, let''s just say you get a free protein boost if you''re not careful. Swishing with fresh water is the least you can do."

    "Pfft..."

    Nita just barely swallowed her water before bursting intoughter, nearly spraying it everywhere.

    "Hey! What was that for?" Vinson dodged quickly, saving himself from the spray. Randell wasn''t as lucky. He caught the brunt of it right in the face.

    "Hey, mouthwash! Not bad," Vinson cackled.

    "You want mouthwash? I''ll give you mouthwash!" Randell shot back, grabbing a bottle and spraying water at Vinson.

    Soon the two of them were chasing each other around, acting like a couple of kids.

    Nita watched, half amused, half speechless. Who would''ve guessed these ruthless corporate sharks could be such goofballs in everyday life?

    "Hey, gorgeous! Wait for me I''m gonna change my shirt, then I''ll be back to take you down at cards!" Randell called out, dashing off.

    Vinson rolled his eyes. "Seriously, man, watch your mouth. If Effie hears you, you''re dead."

    "Don''t scare me like that!" Randell shouted over his shoulder, disappearing inside.

    Vinson caught Nita''s gaze lingering on him and eyed her warily.

    "Don''t tell me you''ve fallen for me. Am I really in danger of losing my virtue?" He hugged himself protectively, putting on an exaggerated look of horror.

 Chapter 255

    Nita''s lips twitched. Was her new boss always this... surreal?

    "Mr. Elliott, do you even believe in chastity anymore?"

    "What kind of question is that?! Of course I do!"

    She just smiled, not believing a single word that came out of Vinson Elliott''s mouth.

    In fact, she wouldn''t trust him with so much as a punctuation mark.

    She clearly remembered how, right after thepany secured new funding, everyone had started gossiping about her new boss.

    Vinson Elliott was good-looking andpetent, so naturally women flocked to him ¡ªand he never turned anyone away. Word was, he''d already gotten involved with several women at the office.

    Nita had no interest in ying that game, so unless absolutely necessary, she made it a point to steer clear of Vinson Elliott.

    Even now, when he''d pretended to care about her health and told her to take it easy, she knew those were just lines men used to hit on women.

    She felt no gratitude-just annoyance.

    Vinson noticed the strange look Nita was giving him and was about to say something when Randell returned. "Let''s go," Randell said, "the table''s ready. I also booked us a private room."

    "Looks like we''re one short," Vinson remarked, arching an eyebrow.

    "We''ll just y cards for now. Lyman should be back soon¡ª¡±

    Randell didn''t get to finish before Vinson interrupted with augh. "Wait, you really want to y with that weirdo Lyman?"

    Randell shrugged. "He''s bringing someone with him, isn''t he?"

    Vinson''s relief was palpable. "Oh, right. That helps."

    Randell gave him a sidelong nce. "Next time we go out, don''t tell people you know me. It''s embarrassing."

    "Get lost!" Vinson shot back.

    Watching the banter, Nita thought the way Vinson and Randell interacted reminded her a bit of her own friendship with Effie. They teased each other mercilessly, but never took offense. It was all in good fun.

    And, thanks to Vinson and Randell''s antics, the tension she''d been feeling earlier began to fade. She finally started to rx.

    Vinson caught Randell''s eye, as if to say thank you.

    Randell lifted his chin in mock arrogance.

    Nita, feeling curious, asked, "So... when you say Lyman''s weird, is it because he cheats at cards?"

    Vinson shook his head. "No, he''s a totally fair yer. The problem is, every time we y with him, we lose. He''s got this freakish ability-he can remember every card that''s been yed. No matter how many decks we use, he knows exactly which cards are left in everyone''s hands."

    "It''s like he''s got x-ray vision or something," Vinson went on. "He always knows exactly what move we''re about to make, and blocks us every time."

    Randell added, "Honestly, we don''t even like ying with him anymore. What''s the fun when he wins every single time?"

    Vinson grinned. "At least now we''ve got Effie joining. Judging by her face, she probably doesn''t know how to y cards."

    Nita''s lips twitched again. These two were terrible-hoping to boost their egos at Effie''s expense.

    But they were in for a surprise.

    Because Effie was just as much of a wild card as Lyman.

    Nita decided to keep quiet for now. Let them walk right into it-they''d regret it soon enough.

    Effie and Lyman strolled hand in hand along the beach, the soft, clean sand warm beneath their bare feet.

    A salty breeze tousled their hair while the waves whispered and the horizon glowed with the colors of sunset. Gradually, Effie felt her heart settle.

    She was from Neo-Arcadia, but she''d always loved the sea. Every time she took a vacation, she''d choose a seaside destination.

    Mitchell, on the other hand, hated it. He''d alwaysin that Effie picked the same ce every time-no surprise, nothing new. He said he was tired of the same old scenery.

    Back then, Effie was blinded by love and didn''t notice what those words really meant. Now she realized: if Mitchell could say something so indifferent, he was never the type to stay loyal.

 Chapter 256

    To Effie, there was a world of difference between a vacation and a sightseeing trip. A vacation, she believed, was aboutfort-about letting yourself rx and breathe, not about elbowing through crowds at tourist hotspots or racing from onendmark to the next, snapping photos just to prove you''d been there.

    That''s why, whenever she managed to get away, she''d pick out the most secluded resorts or lesser-known beaches. She''d check into her hotel, have a bite to eat, sleep in aste as she wanted, and then maybe wander down to the shoreline, feeling the ocean breeze on her face, letting her mind drift as she gazed at the

    waves.

    She once tried to exin this to Lyman-her whole philosophy on vacationing versus traveling.

    The truth was, she rarely had the chance to take a proper vacation. Even when she did, she always worried about her grandmother back home.

    Still, she couldn''t deny how restorative it felt to be away, to let her body and mind truly unwind.

    Lyman listened and nodded. "Yeah, I understand."

    Effie paused, studying him. Somehow, when Lyman said he understood, it

    sounded different from what she meant. As if he was talking about something else entirely.

    He looked at her, and for a split second, she felt as though he was seeing

    someone else through her-someone she''d never met.

    He smiled gently. "You look tired. Let''s go back to the room and rest."

    Lyman didn''t mention Randell or the others. Frankly, he hoped they''d stay gone. Those guys were like walking floodlights-blindingly obvious, impossible to ignore. He''d be perfectly happy if they never showed up again.

    But Effie asked, "Where''s Nita? And the rest of them? They all disappeared."

    Lyman, not missing a beat, shrugged. "No idea. We''ve been wandering around forever. You must be worn out. Let''s just head back to our room."

    But Effie frowned, worry flickering across her face. She was concerned about Nita. After what happened earlier with Hanley, she couldn''t shake the worry that Hanley might try something again.

    "I can''t," she said. "I have to find Nita."

    Lyman sighed, realizing he wasn''t going to win this one. He pulled out his phone and called Randell. "Where are you guys?"

    Randell answered, "We''re up in the room, ying cards. We''re short onee up and join us."

    Lyman raised his eyebrows. He could hear the excitement in Randell''s voice when he said "you guys."

    Just then, Vinson Elliott chimed in, "Lyman! You two should hurry up and get over here."

    Lyman rolled his eyes. Of course he knew exactly what was going on.

    He turned to Effie. "Do you y cards?"

    Effie hesitated. Lyman looked so serious, she wondered if it was a big deal.

    He misunderstood her silence. "Don''t worry if you don''t know how. I''ll teach you."

    So that''s what this was about? Effie let out a breath. "I can y. I just don''t do it very often."

    "It''s fine," Lyman assured her. "We''re just ying for fun, not high stakes."

    Effie nodded. "Alright, I get it."

    Once they were upstairs, Vinson Elliott waved at her the moment they walked in. "Effie! Over here-sit next to me."

    Lyman could only shake his head. He''d guessed right about their motives.

    Effie nced around at their eager faces and put two and two together.

    Nita slid over to Effie and whispered something in her ear.

    Across the table, Randell shot Vinson Elliott a look-uh oh, Nita might be spilling the beans.

    Vinson Elliott mouthed, Not impossible. If Effie refuses to y, I''ll dock her half a month''s pay.

    Randell retorted, You try that and she''ll quit on the spot. Didn''t you say she''s got real potential? Weren''t you nning to recruit her to headquarters?

    Effie, catching their nces, fixed them both with a look. "Vinson, Randell, is there something wrong with your eyes? Because if there is, I can rmend a great eye doctor."

    Vinson Elliott winced, caught out. "Nope, my eyes are just fine. So are we ying or not?"

    Effie grinned, confidence lighting up her face. "Of course we''re ying. Why wouldn''t we?"

    Randell and Vinson Elliott exchanged a look-and both burst outughing.

 Chapter 257

    Vinson Elliott and Randell were grinning smugly,pletely oblivious to the sly look Effie and Nita exchanged-a shared glimmer of amusement in their eyes.

    Then Vinson turned to Lyman. "Lyman, you''re not allowed to get involved. Go do some work, will you?"

    That move was ruthless. Imagine making someone work when they''re supposed to be on vacation, just to keep them from interfering.

    Vinson turned to Nita and said, "You probably think I''m being harsh, but honestly, work is the only thing that guy actually enjoys. He''s a total workaholic-if he''s not working, he''s thinking about work. Nothing else interests him."

    "That''s not true. There''s one thing he likes," Nita replied.

    Vinson and Randell perked up, instantly nosy. "Oh? What''s that?"

    These two were absolute gossip hounds.

    Nita grinned. "Our Effie, of course."

    For a moment, Vinson and Randell were stunned, then both burst outughing. "You know, that actually makes a lot of sense."

    Effie''s cheeks flushed pink. She squirmed in her seat and tried to deflect. "Oh,e on, don''t tease me. Let''s just y the game already."

    "Oooh, Effie''s blushing," Vinson teased, grinning wider.

    Effie shot a shy nce over at Lyman, who was wearing headphones and looked deep in conversation-his expression serious, probably working. She decided not to disturb him.

    The first round ended. As expected, Effie lost spectacrly.

    "Effie, this is hopeless. With skills like that, people will think we invited you just to gang up on you," Vinson said.

    Nita couldn''t help thinking: Isn''t that exactly what we did?

    Effie apologized, cheeks still pink. "Sorry, sorry, I''m just not used to it yet. Give me a little time¡ªI''ll get better."

    Really? As if someone''s skills could magically improve in a snap.

    But since Effie had said so, Randell and Vinson yed along. "Alright, we''ll wait. Take your time."

    They had been looking forward to an easy win, but after a few more games, something changed.

    "Wait a second, Effie... are you... counting cards?" Vinson asked, suspicion dawning on his face.

    Effie nodded. "Yeah, I''m not great at strategy, but I do have a good memory." Just a good memory? That was underselling it¡ªher recall was almost uncanny. Vinson shot Nita a look, clearly annoyed. Nita avoided his gaze, looking sheepish. Hmph. And to think he''d been trying to cheer her up, only for Nita to set him up like this.

    Nita protested, "You can''t me me! You two wanted to pick on my best friend. It''s fine if you bully me, but you''re not allowed to bully her!"

    Vinson and Randell could only stare at each other, speechless. At this point, who was bullying whom?

    Just then, Lyman strolled over, his earlier tension gone, brow finally rxed.

    "They''re giving you a hard time?" he asked, casting a pointed look at Randell and Vinson.

    Bullying her right in front of him? Unthinkable.

    Vinson raised his hands in protest. "Come on, man, we wouldn''t even dare!"

    Lyman snorted. "Don''t even think about it."

    He sat down beside Effie, his tone gentle. "Here, let me teach you."

    Randell waved him off. ¡°No need¡ªshe''s already wiping the floor with us. If you join her, we might as well just surrender."

    Lyman ignored Randell, turning to Effie as if seeking confirmation. "Are they giving you trouble?"

    Effie replied, "They say it''s bad that I''m counting cards."

    Randell forced augh, shooting her a pleading look. "No, it''s great, really! Please, have mercy on us, princess."

    Lyman, unfazed, asked, "So, what were you guys ying for?"

 Chapter 258

    "We never actually made a bet."

    "Let''s have some stakes,e on. It''s no fun otherwise." Lyman''s tone was casual, but the glint in his eyes said otherwise.

    The moment he spoke, Randell and Vinson Elliott knew-they were doomed.

    "A little wager keeps things interesting," Vinson said with a forcedugh, shing a cating grin at Lyman.

    Lyman didn''t reply. Instead, he turned to Effie. ¡°What do you think?"

    Effie shrugged. "Sure, why not?"

    Randell and Vinson exchanged mournful nces. That was it. Their fate was sealed.

    By the end, both Randell and Vinson had handed over a chunk ofpany shares to Effie.

    Vinson grumbled, "Lyman, if you just wanted to give Effie your shares, you could''ve said so."

    Randell chimed in, "Exactly! Here, Effie, I''ll give you some of my resort shares."

    Vinson shot him a look. "You''re so sneaky, Randell. I gave her shares in Elliott''s Cozy Room, but you just pawn off your resort--she barely visits that ce once every ten years. And let''s be honest, your business is new and already floundering. It''s barely staying afloat."

    Randell smirked. He''d had his reasons for offering the resort shares.

    After all, Effie was Lyman''s darling wife, and now she was a stakeholder in the resort. If anything went wrong there, wouldn''t Lyman have to step in?

    Effie smiled. "Actually, I think it''s great. I really like it there."

    Randell looked pleased with himself. "See? I told you she''d like it."

    Vinson rolled his eyes. "Oh, please. Like she doesn''t love Elliott''s Cozy Room, too. Right, Effie?"

    Effie nodded. "Of course. The food at Elliott''s Cozy Room is fantastic."

    Vinson shot a triumphant look at Randell. "Hear that? She said she likes it."

    Randell turned to Effie with mock seriousness. "From now on, I''m calling you Miss Diplomat. Nobody bnces sides better than you."

    Effie blinked innocently. "But I really do like both ces."

    Lyman put a gentle hand on her shoulder. "Ignore them. Let''s head back and get some rest. I heard there''s a bonfire party tonight."

    "That sounds like fun," Effie said, her eyes lighting up.

    Randell straightened with pride. "Of course it does. Who do you think organized it?"

    Vinson, ever the mischief-maker, piped up, "So, Lyman-are you two nning on, uh, sleeping quietly or making a little noise tonight?"

    Effie''s cheeks turned crimson. She couldn''t even look Vinson in the eye.

    Lyman shot Vinson a frosty re. "What''s it to you? If you like your precious Cozy Room so much, stick to running it¡ªand keep your mouth shut for once."

    "Woof," Vinson replied instantly.

    Vinson Elliott-truly a dog at heart.

    Effie couldn''t help but burst outughing. He was just too ridiculous.

    Lyman leaned over and whispered, "Don''t mind him. He forgot his medication today."

    Vinson protested, "How''d you know? I actually haven''t taken it yet."

    Everyone thought he was joking¡ªuntil he pulled a packet of pills out of his pocket. He fumbled, and the pills tumbled to the floor.

    Nita bent down to pick them up, handing them over. "Here, boss-your medicine."

    As she handed them back, Nita caught a glimpse of thebel and nearly jumped out of her skin.

    For a second, the pills felt like they were burning her hand. She shoved the bottle back at Vinson, stammering, "Boss, your... your medicine."

    Vinson took the pills with a half-smile. "You don''t think I''m that kind of guy, do you?"

    Nita''s eyes darted away. She stammered, "That... what kind of guy?"

    The way she fidgeted, Vinson could tell she was probably the innocent type- never even tried anything like that.

    A mischievous impulse crept up on him.

    "What do you think?" he teased.

 Chapter 259

    "You''re so young and already having trouble?" The words tumbled out of Nita''s mouth before she could stop herself, and her cheeks flushed bright red.

    I swear, boss, I''m not just making wild guesses-it''s you who brought it up!

    Randell couldn''t hold it in and burst outughing.

    Vinson Elliott shot him a sharp re, forcing Randell to cough back his amusement.

    Trying to recover, Randell said, "Uh... Carry on, you two."

    No man likes to be told he''s not up to the task.

    Vinson Elliott turned back to Nita. "Did you not know? This medication''s been covered by insurance for years¡ªit''s actually for treating heart conditions.¡±

    Nita blinked, caught off guard. She genuinely hadn''t known.

    A flicker of guilt crossed her eyes. So she''d misjudged Vinson Elliottpletely. "I''m sorry, boss. I didn''t mean it."

    He nodded. "Just remember next time: never use a man of that, especially so carelessly."

    "I understand," Nita replied meekly.

    Vinson Elliott added, "Of course, I''m only taking it for the... thrill of it."

    Nita instantly retracted any sympathy she''d felt.

    "Well then, I won''t interrupt your pursuit of excitement," she said, making her escape in record time-one second she was there, the next she''d vanished without a trace.

    Randell swirled the wine in his ss, eyeing Vinson Elliott with a knowing look. "Why didn''t you just tell her the truth?"

    Vinson Elliott sighed. "You''ve got enough time to sit here drinking after nearly getting me killed?"

    If it hadn''t been for Randell roping him into that card game, he wouldn''t have lost so much.

    Randell set down his ss and rolled his eyes. "Don''t change the subject."

    Vinson Elliott poured himself another drink-he had to admit, Randell''s private stash was exceptional.

    "I''m not changing the subject. But tell me, why should I exin everything to her? She''s not anyone special to me. Besides, I can''t stand that look of pity people give you."

    Randell snorted. "Oh, please. Who''d pity you? It''s just a minor thing-you''re not dying. Tomorrow, I''ll take you bungee jumping."

    "Bring it on. Who''s afraid?"

    They clinked sses, downed their drinks, and let the previous awkwardness dissolve into the night.

    ...

    Later that evening, Effie''s colleagues arrived as well.

    Not wanting anyone to find out about her and Lyman, Effie ditched him and dragged Nita over to mingle with the group.

    Effie hade early, but she''d paid her own way-no one could use her of taking advantage of thepany.

    Besides, it wasn''t apany perk anyway; Randell was footing the bill for this whole trip.

    So even with Effie bringing Nita along, no one minded.

    They were a lively bunch of young people, and it didn''t take long before everyone wasughing and chatting as if they''d known each other for years.

    Shirley and Nita hit it off immediately both self-proimed foodies, they hovered around the grill, skewering and roasting whatever they could get their hands on, sneaking bites as they cooked.

    Randell and the others kept their distance, well aware that employees preferred not to hang around the bosses-it made it harder toin about them, after all.

    Not to mention, there was a certain "big boss" in their midst tonight.

    When the Etheridge Group employees realized Lyman was there, the smiles

    faded from their faces. For a moment, they seriously considered heading home- who could rx on vacation with him around?

    But as long as Lyman stayed on the other side of thewn, the mood lightened again.

    Of course, not everyone felt that way.

    Some, spotting Lyman, couldn''t resist trying to cozy up to him.

    One colleague even walked over, offering him a freshly grilled skewer. "Mr. Etheridge, this is for you."

    Watching someone try to curry favor with Lyman, Nita was thoroughly unimpressed-how could they be so spineless?

    She turned to Effie and muttered, "Aren''t you going to do something about your man...?"

 Chapter 260

    The moment the words left her mouth, Nita suddenly remembered Shirley was still standing right there.

    But to her surprise, Shirley just smiled and said, "Don''t worry, Nita. I know about Effie and Mr. Etheridge. But..." She made a zipping motion across her lips, promising she''d keep the secret.

    Since Shirley was already in on it, Nita felt no need to hold back. She nudged Effie and whispered, "Go on, stake your im."

    Effie shook her head. "There''s no point. He''d never go for it."

    And just as Effie predicted, Lyman didn''t even look at the woman offering him food. He simply said, "Take it away."

    The woman''s face fell, disappointment flickering in her eyes. With a forced smile, she walked off, kebab in hand.

    "Wow, you totally called it," Nita said, watching her leave. "He doesn''t even bother pretending to be nice to his own staff."

    Shirley nodded in agreement. She was grateful for her own good sense-she''d never bother with something so thankless.

    Just then, Vinson Elliott waved in Nita''s direction. "Nita, bring some kebabs over for the three of us."

    Nita scoffed. She''d barely grilled enough for herself, and now she was supposed to share?

    "Greedy bosses-always taking the best for themselves!" she grumbled under her breath.

    "Wait, Nita, you work for Mr. Elliott?" Shirley looked surprised.

    Nita sighed. "Yeah, lucky me. I ended up as an employee at The Elliott Group. Now I''m stuck picking up after the boss."

    Shirley didn''t quite know how to respond. "But... Mr. Elliott doesn''t seem that... type of person..."

    Nita rolled her eyes. ¡°People aren''t always what they seem. You''re still young. Give it time you''ll understand."

    Grabbing a handful of slightly charred kebabs, Nita stalked toward Vinson and his friends. If they wanted her to serve them, she''d make sure to give them the worst- looking ones. Maybe after one bite, Vinson would think twice before bossing her around again.

    Watching her approach, Randell raised an eyebrow. "Who do you think she''ll serve first?"

    Vinson shot him a look. "Obviously me. I''m her boss. Who else would she pick?"

    Randell grinned. "Don''t be so sure. Maybe she prefers handsome guys-maybe I''ll get mine first."

    Vinson rolled his eyes. "Dream on."

    Nita arrived and handed the kebabs to Lyman first. "Mr. Etheridge, Effie asked me to bring these over for you."

    Lyman nodded. "Thank you."

    "My pleasure."

    Randell and Vinson exchanged a look. Apparently, Lyman outshone them both in the charm department. Rookie mistake.

    Nita turned to Vinson, her face suddenly stered with an exaggerated, sugary smile. "Mr. Elliott, here are your kebabs."

    Vinson nearly jumped. "Uh-yeah, please don''t ever smile at me like that again."

    "Why not?" Nita asked, still forcing the grin.

    "It''s creepy," he said tly.

    Nita huffed inwardly but kept up her act. "Of course."

    She turned away, muttering under her breath, "Tight-fisted tyrant... exploiting your staff... hope you get struck by lightning..."

    "Miss Nita, what are you muttering about?" Vinson had somehow sidled up behind her.

    She jumped, startled, and hurried off. "Nothing at all!"

    Vinson jogged after her. "Hey, don''t run off-you forgot to bring me a te!"

 Chapter 261

    They''d snacked on some grilled skewers, and soon, the bonfire party kicked off in earnest.

    After a spectacr traditional firework-forging act, one of the dancers took the lead, circling the fire in a lively dance. Soon, other performers joined in and started pulling the onlookers in with them, inviting everyone to dance together.

    The air was alive withughter and song, people letting loose and thoroughly enjoying themselves.

    Thanks to Randell''s careful orchestration, Effie was ushered by one of the performers to stand between him and Lyman. To anyone watching, it looked as if Effie was dancing right alongside Randell.

    Lyman, clearly pleased with this arrangement, watched Effie the entire time, a smile never leaving his face.

    After dancing for quite a while, everyone was exhausted and drifted back to their seats.

    Vinson Elliott couldn''t help grumbling, ¡°Randell, I''ll give you this-the bonfire was fun, but let''s not do this again next time."

    Randell raised an eyebrow. "Why not?"

    Vinson fanned his sweat-soaked shirt. "It''s the middle of summer, and you''ve got us dancing around a bonfire. I''m drenched, and my skin feels roasted¡ªI swear, I feel like a rotisserie pig."

    Randell just stared at him, speechless.

    Vinson added, "Only a lonely bachelor wouldin about feeling roasted. Look at those two-they''re clearly here to rekindle their romance."

    Randell smirked and jerked his chin toward Lyman.

    Sure enough, even though Effie and Lyman were sitting a little apart, their eyes kept meeting, their silent exchange practically crackling with unspoken words.

    Randell clicked his tongue. "I see nothing. I''m blind to all of it."

    People who unt their love always jinx themselves, he thought. Of course, he''d never dare say that within earshot of Lyman.

    Meanwhile, over on Effie''s side, the mood was equally sour. Nita nudged her and teased, "Why don''t you just go over there? The way you two are making eyes at each other is giving me goosebumps."

    Shirley chimed in, "Exactly! And the boss keeps ncing over here I feel like I''m under a microscope."

    Right then, their view darkened.

    A man stepped forward, blocking their line of sight.

    Effie looked up, recognizing the face-it was the guy who''d asked them for directions earlier.

    She''d barely noticed his earlier interruption, but here he was again.

    "Uh..." The man scratched the back of his head, trying to look bashful. "So, I lost a game and got dared to do something. Could you... add me on Instagram?"

    Effie didn''t hesitate. "Sorry, no."

    He lost a game-what did that have to do with her?

    The man stared at her, thrown off for a moment before a sh of annoyance crossed his face. "No, you have to. You came on to me first."

    Effie couldn''t help butugh at that. "When did Ie on to you? If your eyesight''s that bad, maybe you should see a doctor."

    Nita piped up, "Seems like the real problem''s in his head."

    She stood, stepping in front of Effie, shielding her.

    No one was going to mess with Effie-not on her watch.

    "If you want to get to Effie, you''ll have to get through me first," she said, her eyes cold.

    The man''s expression darkened even more, as if a storm cloud had settled over him.

    "When I asked for directions, you smiled at me. Isn''t that flirting?"

    His absurd confidence had all the girlsughing.

    Shirley snorted, "Wow, ssic egomaniac. Does that mean when the receptionist

    at a hotel smiles at you, you think she''s hitting on you, too?"

    He nodded, absolutely serious. "Of course! They all have a thing for me. Look at me-I''m a good-looking guy."

    Just then, Lyman and the others arrived.

    Vinson Elliott didn''t bother with words. He grabbed the guy by the cor and

    yanked him backwards. "You heard her. Get lost."

    "Who the hell are you? Do you even know who I¡ª"

    The man broke off mid-sentence as he turned and caught sight of Lyman. His face went pale in an instant. "Mr. Etheridge?"

 Chapter 262

    Everyone at the party tonight had been invited by Randell to liven up the ce-a crowd full of familiar faces, all running in the same circles.

    But when he saw who just walked in-Lyman-Bob''s knees nearly buckled.

    Randell and Vinson Elliott strode over, Randell fixing Bob with an icy stare. "Well, well, Bob. You''ve got some nerve, causing trouble in my house."

    Trying to hit on someone? You should at least know your limits. And to hit on Lyman''s wife? That''s just asking for it.

    Bob''s voice shook as he stammered, "I didn''t mean to. Really." He looked like he was about to cry. All he wanted was to flirt, but he''d picked exactly the wrong target.

    "Get out of here," Randell snapped.

    Turning to the others, he added, "This ce is getting dull. Who''s up for cards?"

    Effie''s eyes lit up instantly. "Really?"

    Randell barely suppressed a sigh. How did he forget that Effie and Lyman were both terrifying at card games?

    "Actually, I''ve got another fun idea for you guys," Randell said quickly. No way was he getting roped into a game with those two card-counting weirdos.

    Effie perked up. "What kind of idea?"

    "It''ll be perfect for you," Randell promised.

    "Let''s go," Lyman said to Effie.

    "Alright."

    They left together, and to anyone watching, it just looked like Effie and Lyman''s groups were close friends-no one would suspect anything more than that between Effie and Lyman.

    In fact, the gossip mill had it that there was something between Effie and Randell instead.

    "I didn''t believe it when Nelly said Effie was seeing Mr. Hoffman, but now I''m starting to," someone whispered.

    The woman who''d brought Lyman his grilled skewers earlier watched with narrowed eyes. She pulled out her phone and sent a photo to someone.

    Afterwards, Effie and her friends slipped out of the hotel through a side exit, avoiding the rest of thepany.

    All the while, Lyman held Effie''s hand tightly.

    Curious, Effie turned to him. "Where are we going, anyway?"

    Lyman shrugged. "No idea. Guess we''ll find out when we get there."

    Effie sighed inwardly. If even Lyman didn''t know, this had to be one of Randell''s crazy schemes¡ªand those rarely ended well.

    Almost as if he could read her mind, Lyman reassured her. "Don''t worry. Randell might seem a little ky, but when it counts, hees through."

    Effie cocked an eyebrow. "If you say so."

    "Right this way, please," a hotel staff member said, leading them outside.

    They stopped in front of a hot air balloon. Effie blinked in surprise, then grinned. "I can''t believe he actually arranged for a hot air balloon."

    Lyman nodded.

    Effie nced at him and noticed how tense he looked, lips pressed tight. Suddenly, a suspicion crossed her mind. "Lyman... you''re not afraid of heights, are you?"

    He kept his face perfectly nk. "Of course not."

    Effie wrapped her arms around him, gazing up with bright, starry eyes. "Really? You''re not lying to me?"

    Lyman stiffened. "Nope."

    "Then let''s go up."

    "Alright."

    Effie hopped into the basket first, reaching out her hand to him. ¡°Come on."

 Chapter 263

    Lyman nced at Effie and reached out, taking her hand in his.

    Effie gripped his hand tightly, and with his help, managed to climb up. But the movement was a bit too forceful-she lost her bnce and nearly toppled backward.

    Luckily, Lyman reacted swiftly, steadying her before she could fall.

    Still pressed close against his chest, Effie felt her heart pounding from the scare.

    Lyman''s gentle, deep voice broke the silence. ¡°Are you alright?"

    Effie shook her head quickly. "I''m..... I''m fine.¡±

    "Are you scared?"

    Lyman shook his head, a small smile ying at his lips. "Not at all."

    Just then, the hot air balloon began to rise, slowly lifting them higher. Effie and Lyman peered over the edge, watching as people and houses shrank beneath them until the balloon floated to its highest point and gently came to a stop. The wind up there was stronger, whipping Effie''s hair into a wild mess.

    She pulled the hair tie from her wrist, but before she could do anything, Lyman took it from her, carefully gathering her hair and tying it back at the nape of her neck.

    He seemed worried about hurting her, though, so the knot was a bit loose.

    Effieughed and thanked him, then turned to look at him. "You could have tied it a little tighter..."

    Her words trailed off as she noticed the way Lyman was looking at her-so intently, as if he might pull her in with just his gaze.

    Nervous, Effie swallowed hard and blurted, "Look... look at that view."

    Lyman''s voice was soft, almost reverent. "You''re the only view I see."

    Effie froze, her breath catching, heart skipping a beat.

    Lyman gave her hand a gentle tug, pulling her closer until she was nestled against his chest. The sudden movement made the whole balloon sway.

    Effie gasped and instinctively wrapped her arms around his waist, clinging to him.

    Lyman cradled her head, his voice soothing. "Don''t be scared. I''m right here."

    "Mm-hm." She nodded, her voice muffled.

    "Good girl, close your eyes," Lyman whispered.

    Effie obeyed, eyes fluttering shut. A momentter, she felt Lyman''s soft, warm lips

    brush against hers, tentative at first, then deepening.

    She started off tense but soon melted into his kiss, responding to him.

    They were still kissing when the balloon finally began its descent.

    When they finally touched down, Effie could hardly catch her breath, her heart racing in her chest.

    Without warning, Lyman scooped her up in his arms.

    Effie let out a startled yelp, clinging to him as he held her close.

    His voice rumbled above her head. "If you''re scared, just say so. There''s no shame in it, at least not with me."

    Effie blinked in surprise, then quickly looked up at him. "You knew?"

    Lyman looked down at her, his eyes soft and full of affection. "You don''t have to pretend to be strong around me."

    Effie lowered her gaze and nodded.

    Once, someone else had said those words to her-someone who ended up hurting her the most.

    She had bared her soul to Mitchell, only to be met with mockery.

    She''d learned her lesson since then, keeping her true self carefully hidden away.

    She thought she was doing a good job, thought Lyman wouldn''t see through her. But he did.

    Lyman took her hand gently. "It''s gettingte. Let''s head back." "Okay."

    Suddenly, Effie caught sight of a nearby vendor selling chilled young coconuts. Here, the coconuts were kept whole and ice-cold in a cooler; if you wanted one, the vendor would chop the top off and hand it to you, ready to drink.

    The heat,bined with the barbecue they''d had earlier, left Effie feeling thirsty.

    She couldn''t tear her eyes away.

    "Want one?" Lyman asked.

    Effie nodded. "Yeah."

    "Let''s get one, then."

    "Alright."

    Effie was about to leave after buying her coconut, but the vendor called out to her. "Hey, prettydy! After you finish the coconut water, you can scoop out the fresh coconut meat inside. Want to try?"

    He''d noticed from their ents that they weren''t locals, so he decided to offer a bit of friendly advice.

 Chapter 264

    Effie nodded. "Let''s give it a shot."

    She and Lyman settled onto the little folding stools the owner had brought over, sipping the drink in turn, both looking entirely content.

    After a few moments, Effie felt eyes on them. She nced up and realized they had basically be a live advertisement for the stall-people were watching them curiously, no doubt deciding if they should try it too.

    Leaning closer, Effie murmured by Lyman''s ear, "Once we''re done, let''s ask the owner to crack it open for us, then we can go."

    Lyman nodded. "Alright."

    Finally, they got to try the coconut flesh. It wasn''t quite what they had imagined¡ªitcked any strong fragrance, just a hint of delicate sweetness, and the texture was soft, almost creamy.

    ¡°So? Is it good?" Effie asked, scooping out a piece with her spoon.

    She offered it to Lyman without thinking twice. He didn''t hesitate, just opened his mouth and ate it. "Pretty sweet," he said.

    Effie eyed him suspiciously. "Sweet? I think it''s just okay."

    A small smile tugged at Lyman''s lips. He looked at her, and in that moment, she was all he saw. "Really, it''s very sweet."

    When they made it back to the hotel, Randell and the others were still in the middle of an intense card game.

    Not wanting to interrupt, Lyman just waved and turned to head upstairs with Effie.

    Suddenly, Effie stopped him. "Wait, I can''t. We have team-building activities tomorrow, so I''m supposed to room with Nita tonight."

    Lyman frowned, catching her hand as if he couldn''t bear to let go.

    He gave her a look of mock-resentment. "I never should''ve agreed to this vacation."

    Back home, after work, he could spend every evening snuggled up with his wife. Now, here they were on holiday, and he wasn''t even allowed to sleep in the same bed as Effie!

    "Honey," he said with exaggerated misery, "how am I supposed to get through such a long, lonely night?"

    Effie blushed,pletely thrown by Lyman-he was usually so buttoned-up, and here he was acting all yful.

    She swallowed. "Well... you could, you know, just sleep."

    A wicked smile shed across Lyman''s face. "But I prefer a little action when I sleep."

    Effie''s mind went nk, her head threatening to explode.

    She mmed the door shut and leaned against it, her heart pounding so wildly it felt like it might burst straight out of her chest.

    It was strange, really. They''d been together for a while now-shouldn''t they have settled into thefort of an old married couple by this point?

    But every time she was with Lyman, she couldn''t help but feel her heart race,pletely out of her control.

    Outside, Lyman stared at the closed door, his gaze darkening. When would he finally have all of Effie¡ªher heart and everything else¡ªbelonging to him alone?

    Lying in bed, Effie tossed and turned. She missed Lyman, his face filling her thoughts. Her mind drifted back to the hot air balloon ride earlier, when he''d kissed her over and over to calm her nerves. Her lips still tingled at the memory, and a shiver ran down her spine.

    Nita still hadn''te back, and Effie found herself unable to fall asleep alone.

    She didn''t know how long it took, but eventually, somewhere between longing and exhaustion, she drifted off.

    She woke naturally the next morning, ncing at the other bed-still empty.

    Effie sent Nita a message, and just then, she heard a phone ringing by the door.

    A momentter, the door opened. Nita shuffled in, yawning, back hunched. Catching Effie''s gaze, she looked sheepish. "Oh, you''re awake?"

    Effie narrowed her eyes. "Don''t tell me you were ying cards all night?"

 Chapter 265

    Nita slipped toward the bed, guilt written all over her face. Seizing the moment while Effie was distracted, she dove under the covers and mumbled, "Oh, I totally lost track of time."

    After a pause, she added, "I''m going to sleep first-I''m exhausted."

    Effie looked like she wanted to say something else, but just then her phone rang. Worried about disturbing Nita, she quickly answered and tiptoed into the bathroom to take the call.

    "Hello?" Effie whispered.

    Hearing her hushed, conspiratorial tone, Lyman couldn''t help but ask, "You''re awake? What are you up to?"

    Effie replied, "Yeah, I just woke up. But Nita only just got in, and I don''t want to keep her up, so I''m hiding in the bathroom to take your call."

    "What a shame," Lyman said.

    "Hm?" Effie was puzzled.

    Lyman chuckled. "Nothing, really. You hungry? Let''s get some breakfast."

    "Okay, sounds good."

    Lyman was waiting for her outside, and Effie joined him a momentter.

    He reached for her hand, but she sidestepped him.

    With an exaggerated look of resignation, Lyman said, "We''re out together, can''t I at least hold your hand?"

    Seeing his puppy-dog expression, Effie felt a pang of guilt. She relented, reached out, and took his hand with a sigh. She could never stay tough for long.

    Lyman''s disappointment instantly melted into delight. He squeezed her hand, clearly reluctant to let go.

    "So, where are you taking me today?" Effie asked, curiosity piqued.

    Southern food was so different from what she''d grown up with-new vors, new cooking styles. Ever since she arrived, she''d felt her appetitee alive.

    Lyman grinned. "Remember yesterday, when we had those fresh coconuts? You said you wanted to try the noodle soup from that stall next door-but you were too full, so we skipped it. I looked it up, and there''s a ce nearby run by a chef from the original town-he''s been making it for over a decade, and everyone raves about it. So, I thought we''d give it a try."

    He continued, "Then for lunch, we''ll get seafood at the docks. We can buy it fresh and have it cooked right there at a local restaurant-straight from the sea to our tes. It doesn''t get any fresher than that."

    Lyman kept talking, listing off all the things he knew Effie loved to eat.

    Suddenly, Effie stopped walking and turned to look at him.

    Lyman paused, a little uncertain. "What''s wrong? Don''t like the n?"

    She shook her head. "You''re nning everything I like-but what about you? Don''t you get a say?"

    So, that was it.

    Lyman smiled, squeezing her hand. "If you''re happy, I''m happy."

    Effie''s heart melted, a burst of sweetness welling up inside her.

    Even if Lyman was only saying what she wanted to hear, he made it sound so genuine-unlike certain other people...

    She shook her head, trying to banish that unwanted memory. No point ruining her mood by thinking of the past.

    Soon, they reached the noodle shop. Even from the street, a savory, tangy aroma greeted them, making Effie''s mouth water.

    Though they''d arrived early, there was already a line out front.

    Effie remembered how much Lyman disliked crowds. She squeezed his hand and offered, ¡°There are a lot of people here. Maybe we should try another time?"

    He shook his head. "We hardly ever get the chance toe here. Let''s not pass it up-you''ll regret itter."

    Effie nodded.

    Hand in hand, they joined the queue. The person ahead of them turned and asked, "You two from out of town?"

    Effie smiled and answered, "Yes, we are."

    She knew Lyman wasn''t fond of chatting with strangers, so she took the lead in responding.

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    The man said, ¡°I''m surprised you even found this ce. Only the locals know about it-hardly any outsiders evere here to eat."

    Effie asked, "Is it any good?"

    "Oh, it''s excellent. The food''s amazing, which is exactly why it sells out so fast. Now that you''re here, you might not even get a taste."

    "That''s a shame," Effie replied with a smile.

    She chatted with the man, but she kept her guard up, just in case.

    Then the man turned to Effie and said, "Why don''t you take my spot in line?"

    "Oh, no, that''s not necessary. You came all the way here just like we did it wouldn''t be fair to cut in front of you," Effie protested.

    He waved her off. "Don''t worry about it. Ie here all the time. For you two, it''s a rare treat."

    Before Effie and Lyman could object, the man insisted and gave up his ce for them.

    They thanked him sincerely.

    He just smiled and said, "It''s nothing."

    It took a while before their turn finally came. By then, the owner announced there was only one serving left and asked if they still wanted it.

    After waiting so long, how could they say no?

    Effie quickly agreed. As she did, she nced around, hoping to spot the kind stranger, but he was nowhere to be seen. She guessed he''d left after hearing there was nothing left to order.

    Their meal arrived a hearty bowl of noodles with all sorts of toppings: dried squid, fish cakes, sliced meat, even something that looked suspiciously like sea

    worms.

    Apparently, the owner made a habit of visiting the docks every morning, buying whatever fresh ingredients he could find.

    The taste was just as promised-savory, tangy, and incredibly appetizing.

    Since there was only one bowl left, Effie and Lyman had to share. Maybe it was the act of sharing that made it taste even better.

    Lyman noticed Effie picking around the sea worms.

    "Not a fan?" he asked.

    Effie made a face. "Go ahead, you can have them. Really, don''t worry about me."

    She didn''t like the look of them¡ªjust the thought of eating something called a "sea worm" was enough to turn her stomach.

    The owner ambled over, grinning. "Those are good for men, you know. Supposed to put some pep in your step."

    Lyman hadn''t nned on eating them, but at that, his curiosity was piqued. Trying not to think too hard about it, he scooped all the sea worms into his mouth.

    Effie watched him, the corner of her mouth twitching in amusement and disbelief.

    They finished the bowl, both wishing there was just a bit more.

    "Come on," Lyman said. "Let''s find something else to eat." Effie nodded. "Okay."

    With rmendations from the owner and some nearby vigers, they tried a few more local specialties, but nothing quitepared to that first bowl of noodles.

    Lyman could tell Effie wasn''t especially interested in the rest. "Save some room. We''ll get seafoodter."

    "Sounds good."

    They didn''t bother with sightseeing or searching for the perfect view. Instead, they simply wandered down the coastal road together.

    To them, even the most ordinary scenery seemed beautiful as long as they were walking side by side.

    "Effie," Lyman called.

    "Hmm?"

    She turned at the sound of his voice, just as he snapped a photo.

    "Are you taking pictures of me secretly?"

    Lyman hesitated, then said, "You could take a secret picture of me, too."

    Effie shook her head.

    Lyman looked at her, a flicker of disappointment passing through his eyes. Just then, Effie reached into her pocket and pulled something out.

 Chapter 267

    "Why sneak a photo? Let''s just take one together," Effieughed. "I don''t think we''ve ever had a proper picture of us, have we?"

    She pulled out her phone and switched to the front camera. "Come on, smile."

    Maybe the mood had shifted a little too quickly for him, because Lyman didn''t quite catch up. In the frame, his face was serious-a man on the verge of smiling but unable to pull it off.

    Effie turned to him and said, "Give me a real smile."

    Lyman tried to adjust, but his smile still looked stiff.

    Annoyed at himself, he clenched his fingers. He could negotiate the toughest business deals without batting an eye, but right now he was so nervous he could barely speak.

    "Oh, never mind," Effie said,ughing. "I guess you''re just used to being serious. Just rx-just be yourself."

    Lyman nodded and shifted his posture, and this time, the photo turned out much more natural than that awkward half-smile from before.

    "Much better," Effie said with satisfaction.

    A faint smile tugged at Lyman''s lips. "Send it to me."

    He had to admit, he liked it too.

    As soon as Effie sent him the photo, Lyman immediately forwarded it to their family group chat.

    It didn''t take long before the chat exploded.

    Effie had already been added to the group by Lindy Etheridge, so now her phone and Lyman''s buzzed almost in unison.

    She nced at her messages¡ªit was all praise from Friedman Etheridge and Lindy.

    Lindy even wrote: [I''m posting this in my sisters'' group¡ªjust look at my son and daughter-inw! They''re such a stunning couple.]

    Friedman chimed in: [Absolutely. Our son and daughter-inw are a match made in heaven.]

    Effie blushed at the outpouring of affection.

    She never would have guessed that her father-inw, who always seemed so proper and reserved, could be this warm and effusive.

    Lyman leaned toward Effie. "That''s just how they are kind of over the top sometimes. You''ll get used to it."

    "Not at all," Effie replied, smiling. "I really love this kind of family."

    Lyman felt like his heart was overflowing with honeyed warmth.

    Hand in hand, they strolled down to the pier to buy fresh seafood, then brought it to a nearby restaurant to be cooked.

    The recipes weren''tplicated, but everything was so fresh that it tasted amazing.

    Effie was clearly delighted. "This is probably the best seafood I''ve ever had."

    Lyman gazed at her, eyes full of tenderness. "If you like it, we''lle back as often as you want."

    He looked at her expectantly as he finished speaking.

    Effie nodded. "I''d love that."

    They walked back to the hotel, fingersced, and only parted ways at their doors.

    To their surprise, Nita had been roped into an endless card game again; even their dinner had been delivered straight to their rooms by the hotel staff.

    When Effie and Lyman returned, Vinson Elliott hurried over and lowered his voice to Lyman. "You have to admit, we''re pretty solid friends, aren''t we?"

    Lyman gave a small nod. "You''re all right."

    Vinson clicked his tongue. "Come on! We''ve been ying cards with those two all night just to keep them distracted, so you could actually have some alone time with Effie. I''m about to drop dead from exhaustion-it''s like those two are energy vampires. And all I get from you is ''all right''?"

    "Elliott''s Cozy Room. I''ll add another ten million to your investment."

    Vinson lit up. "Now that''s what I''m talking about! You''re my brother for life."

    Randell hurried over, not wanting to miss out. "Lyman-"

    "Resort project, extra twenty million," Lyman cut in before Randell could finish, already knowing what he was after.

    Vinson''s face turned sour. "Wait, why does he get double what I got?"

    "Because my wife loves this ce," Lyman said, deadpan.

 Chapter 268

    Randell was grinning from ear to ear, practically bursting with pride as he turned to Vinson Elliott. ¡°It''s just natural talent,¡± he boasted, "You can''t fake this kind of skill."

    Vinson just snorted. "Yeah, right."

    Meanwhile, Nita and Shirley were happily digging into the seafood Effie had brought back for them, lookingpletely satisfied.

    "Did you have fun ying cards?" Nita asked.

    "Yeah, it was a st. Won a few rounds, too," Shirley replied, beaming.

    Shirley nodded enthusiastically, her cheeks flushed. "Honestly, I didn''t expect those two bosses to be so terrible at cards-they lost almost every hand. I made out pretty well. I guess all those times I prayed to Lady Luck finally paid off! She must have seen how sincere I was and decided to send some cash my way."

    Nita just kept eating, silently amused. She saw right through them.

    Those two were as shrewd as theye. There was no way they''d lose money at cards unless they wanted to. It was obvious they were just stalling, keeping her and Shirley upied so Lyman and Effie could have some alone time.

    So, every now and then, Nita would say she wanted to go hang out with Effie. The bosses, not wanting them to leave, would have no choice but to keep losing on purpose.

    After all the money those corporate sharks had made off her, was it really so wrong for her to win a little back?

    Once everyone had eaten their fill and savored two perfect days and nights of vacation, it was time to pack up and head home.

    "Shirley, did you spend the whole time with the bosses?" someone asked as she zipped her suitcase.

    ¡°I feel like I''ve been wrung out like a dishcloth,¡± Shirley groaned.

    A few coworkers gathered around, curiosity shining in their eyes.

    "You really yed cards for two days straight?" one asked skeptically.

    Shirley shrugged. "Yep. Cards, cards, and more cards."

    "Yeah, right. I don''t buy it."

    "Me neither."

    "Believe what you want," Shirley said, not bothering to argue.

    Meanwhile, elsewhere in the hotel, Nelly stormed into Irving Butler''s room without so much as a knock, her face thunderous.

    His secretary let out a startled yelp, scrambling to adjust her clothes.

    Nelly''s eyes were practically zing with fury. "What the hell do you two think you''re doing?"

    Irving shot her a sharp, annoyed look. "What we do in here is none of your business."

    "You get out!" Nelly barked at the secretary.

    The secretary hesitated, ncing at Irving with a wounded expression but remaining rooted to the spot.

    Irving waved her off, impatient. "Just leave."

    Having two women in here was giving him a headache.

    When the secretary was finally gone, Nelly rounded on him. "You''ve got time to fool around while the house is on fire?"

    Irving''s eyes narrowed, his annoyance barely concealed. "What''s that supposed to mean?"

    Nelly tossed her phone at him. "Look at Effie-she''s charming the socks off both Mr. Hoffman and Mr. Etheridge. She''s smart and capable, and now she''s got both of them eating out of her hand. How long do you really think you can hold onto your manager position?"

    Irving''s fingers tightened around the phone, his knuckles turning white.

    He knew he couldn''t just sit back any longer. If Effie was making her move, he''d have to strike first.

    "Fine. I know what I have to do. You can go now."

    Nelly narrowed her eyes, staring him down. After all the valuable information she''d just handed him, was this all she got?

    "And you''d better stay away from that tramp. She''s nothing but trouble," Nelly snapped.

    Irving let out a coldugh. "And what does that make you?"

    "Irving Butler!"

    Nelly leaned over his desk, bracing herself with both hands, her chest heaving with anger as she red at him.

    Irving couldn''t help but notice her figure, his gaze lingering. Swallowing hard, he tried to y it off. "Rx, I was just kidding. There''s noparison between you and her."

    ...

    Effie had barely stepped into the office when a woman stormed up to her, face twisted with anger, practically ready to tear her apart. "You''re Effie, aren''t you?"

 Chapter 269

    Effie studied the woman, brow furrowing. "Yes, I''m Effie. And you are...?"

    "Homewrecker! How dare you seduce my husband?" The woman''s hand shot up, aiming a p at Effie.

    Effie reacted instantly, catching the woman''s wrist in midair, her frown deepening. "Ma''am, I think you''ve got the wrong person."

    The woman red. "Aren''t you the prettiest girl in your office?"

    Effie was confident about her looks, but to say she was the absolute best-looking? That felt like a stretch.

    "Hah! That guilty look says it all!" the woman snapped.

    Suddenly, she shouted, her voice echoing down the hall. "Irving Butler! Get out here! Don''t you dare hide from me like a coward-I''ve found your little mistress!" Irving Butler?

    Effie arched a brow, starting to piece things together.

    "I''m not the one you''re looking for," she told Mrs. Butler calmly. "You''ve got the wrong woman."

    "That''s impossible. I already asked the receptionist, and she said you''re the prettiest one here." Mrs. Butler''s tone was full of certainty.

    Effie had to bite back augh. Sure, thanks for thepliment, she thought, but I really don''t need it right now.

    "Since when does being the prettiest mean you''re the seducer? Are you saying in-looking women can''t be cunning? Look at you-beautiful as you are, you still can''t keep him in line. Maybe your husband just has...unusual tastes." Effie shot back.

    Effie knew perfectly well that the real culprit was Nelly. She''d always expected Nelly''s affair with Irving Butler woulde to light someday, but she never imagined she''d end up as the main suspect.

    Still, her words seemed to hit home for Mrs. Butler; who doesn''t like being told they''re attractive? But Mrs. Butler wasn''t about to let herself be fooled so easily.

    She pressed on. "Where''s Irving Butler? I''m not leaving until I get an exnation!" Shirley, who was standing nearby, didn''t believe for a second that Effie would ever go after someone like Irving Butler. She knew exactly who Effie''s boyfriend was.

    Why would Effie dump a handsome, wealthy guy like Lyman for Irving Butler? What was the appeal-his age, hisck of hygiene, his empty wallet? Please. Shirley marched up to Irving Butler''s office, pounded on the door, and yelled, "Mr. Butler! Your wife''s here to see you. Mr. Butler!"

    Inside, Irving Butler and Nelly were in the middle of their tryst, lost in the heat of the moment. The pounding on the door shattered the mood instantly.

    Nelly shot Irving a look-equal parts frustrated and disgusted.

    He''s too old for this, she thought. Barely any stamina left. If it weren''t for his usefulness, she wouldn''t bother with him at all.

    Shirley''s voice rang out again. "Mr. Butler, your wife is here! She''s looking for you!"

    Panic shed across Irving''s face. He shoved Nelly away in a hurry. "Hide! Now!" he hissed through gritted teeth.

    Nelly straightened her clothes while frantically looking for a ce to hide.

    Irving Butler yanked open the door and stepped out just in time to see Mrs. Butler storming down the hallway toward him. Her eyes narrowed, scanning him from head to toe, searching for any sign of guilt.

    Then she spotted it¡ªa lipstick stain on his cor.

    "Lowlife!" she snapped, pping him hard across the face.

    For a moment, Irving was stunned. Then his eyes darkened with rage.

    This was hispany-how dare she make a scene and humiliate him here?

    "Get out of here, you crazy woman! Go home!" he snapped, voice cold and sharp.

    He looked ready to explode, and Mrs. Butler froze, too startled to move.

    Before things could escte, Effie darted over and pulled Mrs. Butler out of harm''s way.

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    She said coldly, "Irving Butler, your wife is pregnant!"

    Irving froze, stunned for a moment beforeing back to his senses.

    His gaze rested on Mrs. Butler''s rounded belly, a flicker of somethingplicated passing through his eyes.

    "If you knew you were pregnant, you should be home, taking care of yourself," he said tly.

    Mrs. Butler shot him a look, her voice sharp. "If I''d stayed home, would you just have carried on your little affair with that tramp in your office?"

    She stared hard at Irving''s neck-there was a lipstick smudge there, a garish shade of red that had been all the ragetely. She needed to find out whose lips had left that mark.

    Her eyes swept over everyone in the room.

    Finally, her gaze settled on Irving''s secretary, her expression darkening, a sh of fury in her eyes.

    Supporting her aching back, she stormed toward the secretary. "It was you!" The secretary, caught off guard, stood frozen in terror, eyes wide. "It wasn''t me, I

    "Shut up!" Irving barked, his tone icy.

    The secretary snapped her mouth closed, looking at Irving, her face a picture of innocence.

    Mrs. Butler''s voice rose, shrill and unhinged. "Well? What are you trying to say? Who was it? Speak up!"

    Irving didn''t even spare his wife a nce. If it weren''t for her pregnancy, he''d have divorced her long ago-she was old and broken down, no match for him.

    "Security! Where''s security?" he called, as if she were nothing but a nuisance.

    Just then, Shirley, watching the chaos, piped up, "Hey, where''s Nelly? Has anyone seen Nelly?" She made sure to sound innocent, but her real motive was clear: under no circumstances would she let them pin this mess on Effie.

    Nelly?

    Mrs. Butler''s eyes narrowed, a glint of realization flickering there. She remembered now!

    There''d been someone calling Irving at the officetely, always about "work," supposedly a designer. Even when Mrs. Butler had answered, that woman had been all warmth and cheer, calling her "sis" like they were family.

    She hadn''t suspected anything at the time.

    But now...

    "Nelly. Where is Nelly?"

    Her gaze darted toward Irving''s office.

    At that moment, Nelly, seeing everyone''s attention fixed on Mrs. Butler, tried to slip away unnoticed.

    "Slut!"

    Mrs. Butler lunged, grabbing a fistful of Nelly''s hair before she could escape.

    Nelly screamed and stumbled to the floor. "Let go of me!"

    Mrs. Butler snarled, "You home-wrecker! Seducing my husband and still have the nerve to yell at me? You must have a death wish!"

    Nelly tried to fight back, but Mrs. Butler, despite her age and pregnancy, was heavy and furious-pinning her like a boulder so she couldn''t move.

    Thankfully, security finally rushed in and pulled Mrs. Butler away.

    "Irving Butler, you''ll get what''sing to you! Cheating on me while I''m carrying your child! You''re disgusting!" Mrs. Butler shrieked.

    Irving''s face was stone cold. "Are you done? Or do you n to keep this up until I lose my job?"

    As if doused with cold water, Mrs. Butler fell silent, her rage quickly draining away. Then, suddenly, she clutched her stomach, pain etched across her face.

    "My stomach... something''s wrong..."

    Effie was nearest. Without thinking, Mrs. Butler grabbed her hand.

    Effie''s brow furrowed. She moved quickly to support Mrs. Butler. "Come on, let''s get you to the hospital."

    Mrs. Butler looked at Effie, her eyes full of confusion and emotion. Her lips parted, but for a moment, no words came.

    "Why... why are you helping me?"

    Just earlier, she''d used Effie of being the other woman-surely Effie must be furious.

    Effie replied quietly, "Even if I were angry, this isn''t the time. Your baby is innocent."

 Chapter 271

    A human lifees first-no matter how big the problem, nothing should outweigh that.

    Effie stayed close to Mrs. Butler as they climbed into the ambnce. Only then did Irving Butler finally let out a sigh of relief.

    "Damn you, Irving Butler! I swear I''ll never forgive you!" Mrs. Butler spat the words through clenched teeth.

    "Ma''am, you need to calm down," a paramedic urged, concern in his voice.

    "Getting this upset isn''t good for your baby."

    Mrs. Butler knew he was right, but the pain inside her was suffocating. If she didn''t

    let it out, she thought she might just explode.

    Suddenly, a warm hand reached for hers.

    She turned her head and saw Effie beside her.

    For a moment, Mrs. Butler just looked at Effie, her emotions tangled up and words caught in her throat.

    Effie squeezed her hand. "Don''t waste another thought on that man. If he really cared about you, he''d be here right now."

    Her words cut deep, like a knife straight to Mrs. Butler''s heart.

    She''d always known the truth, really. She just chose to pretend she didn''t.

    "We met our freshman year. We went through so much before finally getting together. And now-now it''s our seventh year, the year everyone warns you about. I just can''t ept it. I can''t..."

    She''d always had trouble conceiving, and for this baby, she''d endured every kind of treatment, tried everything she could. It hadn''t been easy, not one bit. She''d given so much¡ªher body, her hope, her heart.

    How could she let go now?

    "Why is it so easy for men to lose interest? All those promises-they just forget them?"

    Effie''s expression softened, a shadow flickering in her eyes. "Who knows?" she murmured.

    "You hear it everywhere-men and women see things so differently. Men, it''s like they''re always subtracting, always finding faults, until eventually there''s nothing left-no passion, no spark. But women, we''re different. We find reasons to forgive, to hold on, to keep loving until we''ve given everything, until the score is full."

    "Men and women just handle love in their own ways. So, of course, what we want is different, too."

    Effie''s voice was gentle and steady, patient as a counselor. Little by little, Mrs. Butler''s breathing slowed, her anger ebbing away.

    One of the paramedics gave Effie a thumbs-up, impressed by how much wisdom this young woman seemed to have.

    Once Mrs. Butler was at the hospital, a battery of tests confirmed that it was only the stress and cramping that had caused her pain-nothing more serious, thankfully.

    The doctor gave her a stern look. "You know how hard it was to get pregnant. Take care of yourself, and don''t waste this chance."

    Mrs. Butler nodded, lips pressed together, chastened like a child caught misbehaving.

    Effie stayed with her through every exam. When it was time to leave, Effie gently

    led Mrs. Butler down the corridor, ready to see her safely home.

    "I don''t think I can go back to my house tonight," Mrs. Butler said quietly. "I''d rather stay at a hotel."

    "Of course," Effie replied without hesitation.

    Mrs. Butler hesitated, then added, "Ever since I got married, my whole life has revolved around my husband, my little family. Somewhere along the way, I stopped having friends of my own."

    There was a rare vulnerability in her voice. Meeting Effie felt like a lifeline, and she desperately wanted to reach out, to form some kind of connection.

    But Effie just smiled politely, making no move to encourage her.

    Mrs. Butler gave a weakugh. "Miss Bagnold, when you were talking about

    betrayal earlier, you sounded like you really understood. Did someone do that to

    you, too?"

    Effie''s lips twitched in a hint of a smile. "That''s all in the past now."

    "Do you still hate them?" Mrs. Butler pressed.

 Chapter 272

    Effie said, ¡°When the love is gone, so is the hate. There''s just... nothing left."

    Mrs. Butler sighed wistfully. "I envy you. You''ve really moved on, haven''t you?" Neither Effie nor Mrs. Butler realized someone was trailing behind them.

    Mitchell had spotted Effie at the hospital and, almost without thinking, followed her out. He hadn''t expected to overhear a conversation like this.

    His hands clenched into fists, his eyes flickering with a storm ofplicated emotions.

    He muttered under his breath, "No... That''s impossible. How could you fall out of love so quickly? You''re just telling yourself that, just trying to fool yourself!"

    After Effie helped Mrs. Butler check into her hotel, she headed downstairs and waited by the curb for a ride.

    Suddenly, a figure sprinted toward her.

    She instinctively took a step back, but the man barreled forward with the force of a bull and grabbed her shoulders.

    Effie struggled hard. "Mitchell, have you lost your mind?!"

    Instead of letting go, Mitchell pulled her into a desperate embrace.

    "Effie, let''s get back together. I miss you I''ve missed you so much it''s driving me insane!" Mitchell''s voice was raw with longing.

    Effie squirmed in his arms and shouted, "Mitchell, it''s over! We''ve been done for a long time!"

    "No, we''re not done! You''re just mad at me, that''s all. You still care-if you didn''t, you wouldn''t be so angry, right? That just proves you still love me, doesn''t it?"

    Effie was so disgusted she could barely find words. Her stomach twisted as if she''d been force-fed something vile.

    "Mitchell, do you really need a reminder? The moment you cheated-when you started sleeping with Suzan-that was the end for us. And now she''s having your child, for God''s sake!"

    Mitchell didn''t seem to hear anything except the word "child."

    He said, "Effie, I don''t love her. I never did. It''s always been you. Suzan, basketball, ser, golf¡ªthey''re all just things I do to unwind, distractions. But I alwayse back to you in the end!"

    "Why can''t you just be patient? Once Suzan has the baby, I''ll make sure she goes away and leaves the kid with me. I''ll tell everyone you''re the mother. We''ll be a family-you, me, and the baby, together forever."

    Effie had met shameless men before, but nothing on this level.

    Did he really justpare women to basketballs and golf clubs, like we''re all just toys for him to y with? It was beyond disgusting. The utterck of respect made her wonder how she''d ever fallen for someone like this.

    "Mitchell, your love is worthless. The only person you''ve ever loved is yourself. Everyone else is just an essory to you. You never appreciate what you have until it''s gone, and there''s no magic cure for regret."

    She paused, then added coldly, "And for the record, I have no interest in raising someone else''s child."

    Mitchell''s voice wavered. "No, Effie, listen to me. I only love you-really, only you. If you don''t want that baby, then let''s have one of our own! Wouldn''t that fix everything?"

    He nced over at the hotel entrance, and suddenly tightened his hold on her, trying to drag her toward the lobby.

    At that moment, a sleek ck Maybach cruised past the entrance. The driver leaned out the window, honking, and called out, "Hey, buddy can''t you keep your hands to yourself in broad daylight?"

    He peered again, frowning. "Wait a second-something''s not right here!"

 Chapter 273

    ¡°Lyman, looks like you''ve been cheated on!"

    Vinson Elliott mmed on the brakes, excitement lighting up his features as he pointed toward the hotel just ahead.

    Before the car even rolled to aplete stop, Lyman jumped out and sprinted in Effie''s direction.

    "Mitchell, are you insane? Let me go!"

    Effie struggled hard, a mixture of anger and shame burning on her cheeks. In a split-second decision, she sank her teeth into Mitchell''s shoulder.

    With a yelp of pain, Mitchell shoved her off. "Damn it, Effie! Were you a dog in your past life or something?"

    She hadn''t expected him to push her so forcefully-Effie stumbled backward, bracing herself for a painful fall. But the sting never came.

    Instead, a familiar scent-clean, bright, like white tea-washed over her.

    She blinked, then turned and saw Lyman.

    For some reason, all the feelings she''d been holding back came rushing to the surface; her nose prickled, and her eyes stung with unshed tears.

    "Honey," she whispered, her voice trembling, leaning into him.

    Lyman pulled her into his arms with a tenderness that made her breath hitch. "It''s alright. I''m here now," he murmured.

    Mitchell''s eyes grew red, almost feverish, as he watched the two of them. It was as if a crimson haze had settled over his vision.

    "Effie, stop pretending," he snapped. "I know you still love me. Otherwise-why didn''t you break free just now?"

    Effie shot him a look that was half-disbelief, half-exasperation. Was he out of his mind? Men were generally stronger than women-she hadn''t exactly trained for wrestling matches. How was she supposed to overpower him?

    Right now, Mitchell looked less like a man and more like a mad bull.

    Lyman gently drew Effie aside, his voice soft as he said, "Be good, sweetheart. Close your eyes."

    She nodded and obediently did as he asked.

    Then Lyman turned, his fist clenched tight, and swung at Mitchell.

    His punchnded squarely on Mitchell''s face, sending him stumbling back, nearly toppling over.

    A metallic taste flooded Mitchell''s nose-blood. Lyman had actually made him bleed.

    Refusing to back down, Mitchell threw a punch at Lyman. But he was still dizzy from the blow, and Lyman easily dodged it.

    Fueled by anger, Lymannded a few more solid hits.

    Mitchell sprawled on the ground, ring up at Lyman with stubborn defiance.

    "You''re desperate to beat me up because you know the truth: Effie still has feelings for me! Go ahead, finish me off! The more you try, the more she''ll never forget me!"

    Lyman froze mid-motion.

    Mitchell''s eyes glinted with smug satisfaction.

    But just then, Lyman felt someone wrap their arms around him from behind.

    He turned and found Effie clinging to him, shaking her head.

    His whole body tensed. He thought she was begging him to stop, to spare Mitchell.

    Mitchell seemed to think the same, his grin growing even more triumphant.

    But Effie''s next words cut through the tension: "That''s not it. I haven''t cared about him for a long time. You''re the only one who matters to me now. Hitting him only dirties your hands."

    Lyman felt like he was on a rollercoaster-his heart dropping, then soaring again.

    But right now, one thing was certain: he''d never felt so happy. It was as if someone had cracked open a jar of honey in his chest-everything was sweet and golden.

    "Alright," he said softly.

    "Lyman."

    A woman''s voice called out. She strode toward him, heels clicking¡ªa striking figure in seven-inch red patent stilettos and a spaghetti-strap dress that showed off every curve. Oversized sunsses hid her eyes, but her mane of long, voluminous curls tumbled over her shoulders like seaweed, making her look every bit the morous femme fatale. She walked straight toward Lyman, her steps measured and unhurried.

 Chapter 274

    Two people trailed behind her-Isabel and Isabel''s manager, Carole.

    Usually, Isabel had that unmistakable celebrity aura, but today, standing beside this woman, she seemed more like an assistant than a star.

    It was like watching the moon and the stars together in the sky.

    No matter how dazzling the stars might be, once the moon appears, the stars simply fade into the background.

    That was exactly the dynamic between Isabel and this woman now.

    "Have you no shame? Brawling with another man here-over... a woman?" The woman''s gazended on Effie''s face, and for a moment, even she was taken aback by how striking Effie looked.

    A moment ago, Effie had her back to her, so all she noticed was Effie''s graceful figure and captivating poise. But now, seeing her face for the first time¡ªit was just as breathtaking. Clearly, Effie was no "Beethoven."

    A woman like this was more than enough to make men lose their minds.

    Honestly, just two men fighting for her seemed almost insufficient.

    The woman thought, she could see a few more joining in.

    She took off her sunsses and greeted Effie with an open, confident smile. "Hi,

    I''m Annabel. Annabel, from Annabel''s Couture."

    Effie stared at her for a beat, momentarily stunned.

    Beneath the sunsses, Annabel''s face was striking-bold makeup, sharp features, radiating the kind of energy you''d expect from a wildly sessful businesswoman.

    "What''s wrong? Speechless?" Annabel grinned, her tone teasing. "Don''t worry, I''m used to it. No one can keep their cool when they see me-hence the sunsses every day."

    Effie had collected herself by now. "Hi, I''m Effie."

    She didn''t try to hide her reaction. "You''re honestly beautiful."

    "Thanks. You''re not so bad yourself," Annabel replied with a little smirk.

    Inwardly, Annabel was thinking she''d never met a woman who could actually rival her this one had real potential.

    With a practiced elegance, Annabel opened her purse and, with her index and middle fingers-nails painted a fierce red that made her skin look even paler- fished out a business card and handed it to Effie.

    Effie couldn''t help but stare at those hands. This was exactly the kind of hand model she''d dreamed of¡ªlong, slender, perfectly straight fingers, porcin white.

    Hands like these needed no retouching for product shoots-they were wless straight out of the camera.

    "Are you interested-"

    "Excuse me, would you be interested-"

    They both paused, surprised to have spoken at the same time, thenughed. "You first," Effie said, graciously.

    Annabel didn''t stand on ceremony. "Would you be interested in joining mypany? Sing, act, star in movies-take your pick. Let me tell you, you''ve got what it takes. With a little training and the right publicity, you''ll be a superstar in no time!"

    Effie thought to herself, if she didn''t already know Annabel was acquainted with Lyman, she''d honestly think this woman was some kind of scam artist, about to lure her overseas and sell her off.

    Lyman''s face darkened. Clearly annoyed, he said, "Annabel, don''t even think about stealing my wife."

    "Oh, for heaven''s sake-how many times do I have to tell you? Call me sis!" Annabel shot back, giving him a withering look.

    "Wait a second... Did you just say she''s your wife? Your wife?"

    No way! Even this eternal bachelor finally found love? Now that''s a miracle. "Is the sky falling? You-married?"

 Chapter 275

    "What''s so surprising about that?" Lyman shot Annabel a look that nearly sent his eyes rolling to the ceiling.

    Annabel nced at Effie, her expression suddenly softening-as if she felt sorry for her.

    Effie blinked, thrown off. Why was Annabel looking at her like that? She couldn''t read her at all.

    Annabel turned to Effie and said, "Still, I have to hand it to you. You''ve put up with a lot."

    Effie blinked again. "...What?"

    She stood there, baffled, as if a string of question marks hovered above her head. Honestly, she had no idea what Annabel was getting at.

    Lyman''s face darkened. He pulled Effie behind him, shielding her like a mother hen with her chick.

    Annabel gave a dramatic sigh, but, trying to spare Lyman what little dignity he had left, she added, ¡°Look, Lyman, if you''re not up to it, don''t drag her down with you."

    Lyman''s eyes narrowed, his voice taut with annoyance. "And who says I''m not up to it?"

    "If you''re so capable,¡± Annabel shot back, ¡°howe you''ve never dated anyone, all these years?"

    Effie''s mind spun. Wait, Lyman had never been with a woman? But then why did he seem so... experienced? She''d just assumed¡ª

    Lyman cut in coldly, "I just haven''t met the right person."

    Annabel gave a knowing "Ohhh," her tone loaded with meaning. "So Effie''s the right one, then."

    Lyman didn''t say a word, but his silence spoke volumes.

    A blush crept across Effie''s cheeks; her heart drummed wildly in her chest.

    Off to the side, Isabel watched, nearly wringing her hands in frustration.

    She leaned toward Carole and whispered, ¡°I brought Annabel back to break up Effie and Lyman, but look at them now..."

    Carole frowned, just as confused. Logically, with Annabel''s possessiveness- she''d even tried to stop Isabel from dating Lyman before-Carole would''ve expected her to get in the way now, too. But from the looks of it, maybe she''d been wrong?

    After a moment, Carole said, "I think the boss just doesn''t know what Effie''s really like. Once she finds out, there''s no way she''ll approve."

    Isabel''s hands clenched into fists, nails digging into her palms. Fine, if that''s the case, she''d just have to make sure Annabel saw Effie''s true colors.

    Annabel bumped Lyman with her shoulder, asking, "So, what was that fight about earlier? Need a hand cleaning it up?"

    "No need," Lyman replied coolly. "I''ll handle it myself."

    "When are youing home? Mom and Dad miss you," he added.

    Annabel''s expression changed in a sh, something unsettled flickering across

    her face. She waved him off. "Not happening. I''ve had enough of Mom''s matchmaking. Let''s just leave it at that."

    Before Lyman could react, Annabel slipped away.

    Isabel and Carole hurried after her. "Annabel, wait up!"

    Effie watched Annabel''s retreating figure, deep in thought.

    Lyman caught the look on Effie''s face and, guessing her curiosity, took her hand gently. "Annabel''s my foster sister," he exined. "She lost her parents when she was little. Her father died saving my dad, so my parents took her and her sister in."

    "She''s only a few months older than me, though, so there''s no way I''m calling her ''sis'' to her face."

    Effieughed. She''d never seen Lyman so adorably awkward before.

    She squeezed his hand and swung it back and forth. "Come on, walk me back to work."

    Lyman''s eyes lit up. "dly."

    Normally, Effie wouldn''t want Lyman to walk with her so openly, but today, she clearly wanted Mitchell to see.

    As she passed Mitchell, he caught a faint trace of her perfume-light and sweet. His heart skipped a beat.

 Chapter 276

    He winced at the pain, tugging at his wounded lip as he called out, ¡°Effie."

    He was showing weakness now-he only ever called her so gently when he was at his most vulnerable.

    Back when they were together, every time he let his guard down and called for her like this, Effie''s heart would inevitably soften.

    He thought this time would be no different.

    But this time, Effie didn''t even nce at him. She walked right past, her expression unreadable, and kept going.

    Mitchell reached out, grasping at empty air. His hand closed on nothing.

    He watched her leave, her cold, unyielding back disappearing down the hallway.

    Was this really it for them? Was there truly no future left?

    He couldn''t ept it. He simply couldn''t.

    After all these years together, could they really say goodbye so easily?

    "Mitchell!"

    Suzan hurried over, her eyes widening as she took in the cut on his face. With a worried frown, she reached out, her voice gentle. "What happened? How did you get hurt?"

    Before her fingers could touch him, Mitchell pped her hand away.

    "Don''t touch me," he snapped, his voice icy. "Just leave me alone."

    Suzan''s lips trembled and her eyes stung, but she forced herself to stay calm. Taking a shaky breath, she said quietly, "Alright, I won''t. Let''s just go to the hospital, okay?"

    Mitchell walked to the curb and hailed a cab, sliding inside without looking back.

    Suzan hurried to follow, but as she reached for the door, Mitchell mmed it shut and told the driver, "Go."

    She banged on the window, voice raised in protest. "Mitchell, wait-I''m not in yet!" But Mitchell didn''t care. The mere sight of her made his head throb. "Just drive."

    "But..." The driver hesitated, ncing at Suzan.

    "Drive! If you don''t, I''m not paying."

    The driver had no choice but to pull away, but Suzan lost her bnce and stumbled, falling to the pavement.

    The driver, shaken, said nervously, "She fell. I think she''s hurt."

    Mitchell''s heart clenched. Against his will, worry flickered across his face. ¡°Stop the car!"

    When Mitchell jumped out, the driver finally breathed a sigh of relief.

    Effie and Lyman arrived near thepany. Effie asked the driver to stop and got out.

    Vinson Elliott turned to Lyman, raising an eyebrow. "Lyman, did you do something to Effie? Is that why she doesn''t want people to know about you two?"

    His words cut deep, aimed straight for Lyman''s sore spot. Lyman''s voice was cold as steel. "Mind your own business."

    Effie took the elevator up to the design department.

    As soon as she stepped off, she noticed everyone''s eyes on her, their gazes oddlyplicated. For a moment, she couldn''t figure out what they were thinking.

    Shirley spotted her and rushed over, looping her arm through Effie''s. In a hushed voice, she whispered, "Effie, something''s happened. It''s bad."

    Something happened? What was going on?

    Seeing Effie''s confusion, Shirley realized Effie waspletely out of the loop. She quickly pulled out her phone and nudged Effie to check thepany''s private group chat-the one without any managers.

    The chat was blowing up, everyone gossiping about one thing: Nelly''s embarrassing incident at lunch the other day.

    Only the Pattersons, Nelly, and Irving Butler had been there at the time.

    The Pattersons weren''t the type to spread petty rumors, and Effie certainly wasn''t either. Despite her dislike for Nelly, Effie had felt Nelly''s humiliation was punishment enough. She''d never want to make it worse.

    Which meant...

    "Effie! You conniving backstabber!" Nelly stormed across the room, eyes zing with fury.

 Chapter 277

    Effie nimbly sidestepped Nelly''s wild lunge. It was Nelly, too worked up to keep her bnce, who staggered and nearly fell.

    Once she steadied herself, Nelly immediately pinned all the me on Effie.

    "You little snake!" she spat.

    Nelly still looked ready to pounce, but Shirley quickly stepped between them, shielding Effie.

    "Don''t think just because you''ve got someone backing you up that you''re off the hook!" Nelly snapped, ncing around, searching for an opening to strike.

    Effie met her re, voice calm. "If you start throwing punches before you even know what''s going on, that''s just reckless."

    "Reckless?" Nelly''s voice rose a pitch. "It was just the Pattersons, you, and Mr. Butler there that night. If it wasn''t you, then who else could it have been?"

    Effie arched a brow. "So you''re saying, if it wasn''t me, who else could it be?"

    Nelly hesitated, her frown deepening as she shook her head in disbelief. "No... That can''t be."

    Effie pressed on. "Guessing gets us nowhere. Let''s just go ask him ourselves."

    Without waiting for a response, Effie strode off toward Irving Butler''s office. Nelly stood there, stunned for a second, then hurried after her, scoffing, "I don''t believe this for a second."

    They reached Mr. Butler''s office together. Effie closed the door behind them and, with a decisive click, locked it. "No one''s leaving until we clear this up."

    Irving Butler''s brows drew together, a sh of annoyance in his eyes. He addressed Effie, "Effie, who gave you the authority to pull something like this?"

    "Mr. Butler, you''re not getting nervous, are you?" Effie shot back.

    Mr. Butler''s gaze flickered. "I have no idea what you''re talking about."

    Effie raised an eyebrow, a cool smile on her lips. "You can y dumb all you want. It won''tst."

    Nelly turned anxiously to Mr. Butler. "Mr. Butler, please, just say it wasn''t you who spread those rumors in the group chat, right?"

    "What rumors?" he replied, still feigning ignorance.

    Nelly nced at Effie, her expression practically screaming, "See? He doesn''t even know what we''re talking about!¡±

    Effie let out a coldugh. "Honestly, Nelly, how can you be so dense? You''ve beenpletely yed and you''re still running in circles."

    "Shut up, Effie! Don''t act so virtuous. Didn''t you try to seduce Mr. Hoffman?" Nelly snarled through gritted teeth.

    Effie just shrugged. "Maybe I did try. At least I have better taste than you. Besides, are you sure you never tried to cozy up to Mr. Hoffman yourself? Maybe he just wasn''t interested."

    ¡°Ugh¡ªshut up!¡± Nelly''s face turned crimson, fury and embarrassment mingling in her re. Effie had hit the mark.

    Effie smirked. "It''s bad enough your standards are low, but being dumped and then ming the wrong person? That''s just pathetic."

    She turned to Mr. Butler. He awkwardly rubbed his nose-sure, he''d made it to manager, but did she really have to make him sound so useless?

    Effie continued, "Mr. Butler, you do realize that even if you added your fake ount to the group chat ages ago, the administrators can still check who brought it in, right?"

    That clearly caught him off guard. His confidence faltered; he suddenly looked uneasy.

    Effie went on, "Luckily, thispany actually believes in justice. They don''t me innocent people."

    She paused, letting her words settle. "Of course, they don''t let the guilty ones off the hook, either."

    Effie fixed Mr. Butler with a steady gaze. "Whatever you''ve done, you''d better handle it yourself. Don''t even think about dragging me down with you. Otherwise,

    I''ll take this straight to the top, and trust me, a couple of excuses won''t save you then."

 Chapter 278

    Effie finished speaking, turned on her heel, opened the door, and left the room.

    Of course, she still had a sliver of kindness left in her; after stepping out, she didn''t forget to close the door behind her.

    When Shirley saw Effie emerge unscathed, she breathed a sigh of relief and hurried over, all smiles.

    Naturally, not everyone felt so pleased.

    If Nelly still hadn''t figured out what just happened, then truly, there was no hope for her.

    Fuming, Nelly red at Irving Butler. "Why?" she demanded. "Why would you do this to me? Haven''t I always been good to you? I''ve given you so much!"

    She''d given him everything¡ªwhat more did he want?

    The reason she and Irving Butler had gone to the hospital that day was because she was pregnant. Irving hadn''t wanted the child and insisted she get rid of it. She''d thrown a fit, threatened to make a scene at his house if he didn''t take her himself.

    So Irving had no choice but to go with her.

    But at the hospital, they were told that the baby was perfectly healthy, and unless there was a medical issue, the procedure couldn''t be done.

    In the end, they left in a rush and slipped into a small private clinic.

    The very next day, Nelly was back at work, pretending nothing had happened. Only she knew how much she was hurting inside.

    Irving let out a cold, humorlessugh. The look he gave Nelly was nothing like the gentle one he used to wear. "Nelly, don''t act like you''re the only victim here. You know exactly what''s been going on between us-we''ve always used each other. You traded your looks for what you wanted. All those big contracts and perks went to you because you were with me."

    "But isn''t that how it works?" Nelly shot back. "If it weren''t for those perks, why would I have put up with you-a sleazy, middle-aged man?"

    "Enough. I''m done talking. I''ll give you seven thousand dors. That''s it. My wife made a scene here today-now the whole office knows about you. There''s no way you can stay here anymore, is there?"

    Tears welled in Nelly''s eyes. She looked heartbroken as she asked, "So, everything you''ve done is just to force me out, isn''t it?¡±

    "That''s right." Irving didn''t bother pretending anymore. Everyone knew, so what was left to hide?

    "Seven thousand? Do you think you can buy me off like a beggar? You know exactly how many kickbacks you''ve pocketed these years."

    Since the gloves were off, Nelly didn''t hold back either. "I have all the chat logs with those clients you made me entertain, plus some very private photos... If you don''t want me to go public, transfer me fifty thousand. I''ll leave as soon as I get it." Irving''s eyes burned with fury. After all these years, she turned out to be a snake! "Fifty thousand? Forget it."

    In his mind, Nelly had been passed around enough times-she wasn''t worth that kind of money.

    "Fine," Nelly sneered. ¡°Then I''ll just send the evidence to thepany''s group chat and let everyone see what kind of person you really are!"

    "Irving, don''t be so short-sighted-don''t lose the big picture over a few pennies!"

    Irving''s face was so dark it looked like it might rain, but in the end, he gritted his teeth and transferred the money.

    Satisfied, Nelly walked out, money in hand.

    Not long after, Irving-still wearing a thunderous expression-called Effie into his office. "Nelly''s gone. Happy now?"

    Effie looked at him¡ªa grown man acting like a coward, hiding from his own mess, still avoiding his wife after all this. What a disgrace.

    And yet, he was quick to shift all the me onto someone else.

 Chapter 279

    "It was you who wanted Nelly gone, Mr. Butler. Don''t try to pin this on me," Effie said, her tone even but icy. "I''m not exactly strong or powerful-I can''t take the me for something I couldn''t possibly do."

    Irving Butler gave a derisive snort. ¡°Not strong? You managed to catch a pregnant woman, didn''t you?"

    Effie''s eyes narrowed, a dangerous glint flickering across her face.

    Irving Butler really had no conscience. His wife had worked so hard for so long just to get pregnant, and now he talked as if he''d rather she lost the baby.

    Effie didn''t want to waste another second dealing with someone so vile. Her voice was cold as she said, "Mr. Butler, we''re here to work and make money for thepany-not to get caught up in your personal drama every day. If there''s nothing else, I''ll get back to my job."

    "Wait."

    Irving Butler was clearly annoyed by Effie''s attitude, but couldn''t find a legitimate reason to fire her.

    The entire spectacle today hadn''t just been about getting rid of Nelly-he''d hoped to force Effie out too. His n was simple: Nelly, all looks and no brains, would me Effie for everything. The two would make a scene in the office, giving him the perfect excuse to let them both go.

    But, to his disappointment, Effie hadn''t taken the bait. She never fought with Nelly at all.

    Still, it didn''t matter. He had more tricks up his sleeve for Effie.

    "There was a project lined up for Nelly," Irving said coolly. "Now that she''s gone, you''ll take it over."

    Effie had no objections if it was just a work assignment. "Alright," she said without hesitation.

    Irving''s eyes shed with a mean-spirited satisfaction. Let''s see if she''s still so agreeable after this, he thought.

    As Effie walked out with the file, Shirley hurried over with concern in her eyes. "Effie, did he give you a hard time?"

    "If he wanted to, he''d at least need a proper reason," Effie replied calmly.

    Shirley finally rxed. "So what did he call you in for?"

    Effie shared Irving Butler''s real motive.

    Shirley frowned. "That''s odd. Usually, Irving gives Nelly the cushy, high-paying projects. Now that you''ve upset him, why would he hand you a good job? That doesn''t add up."

    Effie shrugged. "It''s fine. Work is work-some tasks are tough, some are easy. It can''t always be smooth sailing."

    And honestly, Effie believed that whether something was hard or easy often depended on the person handling it. What seemed impossible for others might not be that way for her.

    "So what''s the project?" Shirley asked.

    "It''s for a client named Ms. Cooper. She wants a full set of jewelry designed. Looks like she''s got quite a few requirements," Effie replied, scanning the file.

    At the mention of Ms. Cooper, Shirley let out a groan. "I knew it! Irving is up to no good."

    "That project was never really Nelly''s. She tried, but gave up pretty quickly. Ms. Cooper is unbelievably picky-no matter what design you show her, she''ll always find something wrong. She nitpicks everything."

    "Then Ms. Cooper went away on business for a while and stopped contacting us. We all thought she''d found another firm. Guess not..."

    Shirley''s expression darkened. "You should just turn it down."

    She added angrily, "Irving''s only giving you this because you''re new and you don''t know what a nightmare Ms. Cooper can be. He''s being totally unfair."

 Chapter 280

    Effie shook her head. "No need, I''ve already agreed. I just texted Ms. Cooper to set up a meeting¡ªwe''ll go over her requirements for the jewelry design in detail."

    Shirley sighed. "I wish I could go with you, but they''ve got me assisting Peter now."

    Irving Butler, knowing she and Effie were close, had made a point of splitting them up.

    "It''s fine. I can handle the first meeting on my own. By the time you''re done with your assignments, I''ll probably have most of the prep work finished. Then you can help me out," Effie said reassuringly.

    "Alright," Shirley replied.

    For now, Shirley was just an assistant, there to help the designers with simple tasks-she couldn''t take on her own projects yet.

    Her dream was to be an independent designer one day.

    Shirley had graduated with honors from a prestigious university, hoping she''d finally have the chance to shine here. But with people like Irving Butler around, it felt like that day would nevere.

    Effie''s arrival had changed everything. Shirley felt as if Effie was a ray of light sent just for her, and she was determined to hold onto that hope.

    Effie confirmed the meeting ce with Ms. Cooper. When it was almost time, she grabbed her things and headed out.

    She had just reached the parking lot and was unlocking her car when two police officers approached her.

    "Excuse me, are you Effie?" one of them asked.

    Effie''s eyes narrowed in suspicion. Still, she nodded. "Yes, I am."

    "We''re with the Western District Police Department. There''s been a report using you of aggravated assault. We need you toe with us to the station for questioning.¡± The officer shed his badge.

    Effie studied the badge carefully; it looked legitimate.

    Aggravated assault?

    The first thing that popped into Effie''s mind was that sleazy creep, Hanley-the one whose... unfortunate ident had happened back on Whisperhollow Isle.

    Hadn''t Randell and the others already taken care of that mess? Why was iting up again now?

    Still, she didn''t resist and quietly followed the officers.

    At the station, the truth became clear. It really was about Hanley.

    "The victim ims you used excessive force in self-defense and are therefore being charged with aggravated assault. Do you admit to this offense?"

    Effie frowned. Ever since she''d arrived, they''d been bombarding her with the same questions, circling around and around. She told them she wouldn''t answer a single thing until her attorney was present.

    But it was like talking to a wall. The officers acted as if they hadn''t heard a word.

    Harsh lights red down on her, making it nearly impossible to keep her eyes open.

    The interrogation room was stifling and hot. Within minutes, she was drenched in sweat, her clothes clinging to her ufortably.

    "I... need to see mywyer," Effie managed, her voice hoarse from hours without water. The relentless spotlight was making her mouth unbearably dry, her throat burning.

    Still, the officers showed no reaction, as if they simply couldn''t hear her.

    "Fine. If you won''t talk, we''ll just wait you out."

    Outside the interrogation room, a cell phone kept ringing-on and off, over and

    over.

    "Whose phone is that? Seriously, can someone turn it off?"

    "Pretty sure it''s that woman''s."

    "She''s stubborn. Kept insisting she needed herwyer."

    "Should we check who''s calling?"

 Chapter 281

    After Mitchell hung up the phone, the fog in his mind began to lift.

    Earlier, in a drunken stupor, he''d snatched his assistant''s phone and called Effie over and over. She hadn''t answered once.

    He''d assumed she''d blocked his assistant''s number too.

    Just as he was about to give up, the call finally connected. The strained voice on the other end told him Effie was at the police station.

    At first, he thought it was some scam. But when he asked again and heard the same reply, a chill shot through him. Sobriety mmed into him like a wave.

    He stumbled to the bathroom and sshed cold water on his face. The shock of it cleared his head even more.

    "I need to go home!"

    All he could think about was helping Effie. No matter what, he had to get her out of trouble.

    When Mitchell arrived home, Adeline and Suzan were lounging in the living room, eating Truffle Chocte and watching TV.

    "Suzan, have some more," Adeline coaxed warmly. "I had this special dessert

    flown in today-it''s wonderful for your health. Eat more."

    "Thank you, Mrs. Foster," Suzan replied sweetly, obedient as ever.

    Just then, Mitchell burst in, stumbling over himself. "Mom!"

    Adeline and Suzan jumped, startled. For a moment, they thought he''d been attacked or was hurt.

    But the heavy stench of alcohol gave him away. Adeline''s expression changed; she realized he''d been out drinking-again.

    Lately, Mitchell had been acting out of control. Day and night, he drowned himself in liquor, drank until he cked out, and neglected everything else. No amount of scolding or questioning could get through to him.

    But Adeline wasn''t blind-she knew exactly why Mitchell was losing his mind.

    What she couldn''t understand was what on earth Effie had that made Mitchell so obsessed, so utterly devoted.

    Mitchell rushed up to her, panic in his eyes. "Mom, where''s Director Nichols''s number? I need it."

    Adeline''s face hardened. She tensed, her voice sharp. "Why do you need Director Nichols''s number? What have you done now?"

    Director Nichols was Adeline''s trump card-herst resort. They''d grown up together, childhood sweethearts, almost engaged before fate intervened. In the end, he married his boss''s daughter and climbed the socialdder.

    Out of guilt for betraying Adeline, Director Nichols had once promised her that if she ever needed help, anything at all, he''d do it¡ªno questions asked. But the promise was good for only one favor. Once used, it would never be offered again. Adeline had always kept this in her back pocket, waiting for the right moment. Mitchell only knew about it because she''d let it slip once, by ident.

    She''d made it clear: unless it was a matter of absolute necessity, she would never call in that favor.

    So for Mitchell to bring it up now meant only one thing-something truly serious had happened.

    "It''s not for me¡ªit''s for Effie. She''s been arrested. They''re saying it''s assault."

    The words tumbled out, and Adeline let out a slow breath, half relieved, but immediately her eyes turned cold. "Use my one chance to help that woman? Absolutely not!"

    Without hesitation, Mitchell dropped to his knees in front of her-the first time in his life he''d ever done so. "Mom, Effie''s gotten on the wrong side of the Ames family. Without Director Nichols, she might never get out."

    "Get up!" Adeline snapped. "You''ve lost your mind over that woman, and now you''re groveling to me? She has nothing to do with you anymore. I will not waste my one chance on her!"

 Chapter 282

    "Mom! You know I still love her I can''t live without="

    Before Mitchell could finish, Adeline pped him, hard. Her voice was icy as she snapped, "Mitchell, you''re drunk!"

    A metallic taste flooded Mitchell''s mouth as blood trickled from his split lip.

    Suzan, standing nearby, clenched her fists so tightly her nails dug into her palms.

    Damn Mitchell! Even now, he still can''t forget Effie-that wretched woman. Then what does that make me?

    "Mom, please¡ªI''m begging you, I really can''t live without Effie. If she''s gone, I''ll die." Mitchell''sst shred of pride crumbled as he broke down in tears, sobbing like a child.

    Adeline froze. She had never seen her son like this before.

    Could Effie really mean this much to him?

    "Enough," she said sharply. "Are you a man or not? Crying like this over a woman? Pathetic. Fine, I''ll do it."

    Mitchell lifted his tear-streaked face toward Adeline.

    She looked him over-bloodshot eyes, snot and tears running down his face- disgust flickered in her gaze.

    But in that moment, an idea came to her.

    "Go on, Mom, call her," Mitchell urged impatiently.

    Adeline shot Suzan a look.

    Suzan stepped forward, distracting Mitchell with gentle words.

    Meanwhile, Adeline picked up her phone, muttered a few words into it, then hung

    up.

    Mitchell, dazed and stumbling, barely registered what was happening.

    "All done. You can go upstairs and sleep now," Adeline ordered.

    Suzan chimed in quietly, coaxing Mitchell toward the stairs.

    But Mitchell ignored them both and lurched toward the door.

    Suzan moved to follow, but Adeline stopped her. "Don''t. You''re pregnant, remember?¡± Her voice was firm-she couldn''t risk anything happening to her future grandson.

    Not that Suzan minded. She found Mitchell''s devotion to Effie utterly revolting.

    ¡°But... if Mitchell finds out you never actually made that call, what if¡ª" Suzan looked at Adeline, worry creasing her brow.

    "Effie? That woman? I''d never lift a finger to help her. Mitchell''s just drunk-he''ll be fine once he sobers up," Adeline replied coldly.

    "Don''t overthink it," she added, trying to reassure Suzan.

    Suzan nodded obediently, though inside she was seething.

    Everyone says drunken words are the truest-and Mitchell''s drunken rambling

    tonight proved just how much Effie meant to him.

    Suzan clenched her jaw. What did Effie do to cast such a spell on him?

    ***

    By the time Mitchell stumbled into the police station, eight hours had passed since Effie''s arrest.

    He tumbled out of the car, his forehead freshly gashed and smeared with blood, which ran down into his eyes. He looked aplete mess.

    He staggered up to the front desk, slurring, ¡°I''m a friend of Director Nichols. I''m here to take Effie home."

    Effie? The officers exchanged nces.

    Of course, they knew who Effie was-but even Director Nichols couldn''t interfere with this case.

    The Ames family had issued strict orders: no one was to get Effie out.

    Mitchell caused a scene, ranting and raving, but no one paid him any mind. In the end, they tossed him out onto the street, nothing more than a drunken fool.

 Chapter 283

    Lyman stepped out of the apartment with another man just as a woman hurried toward them.

    "Mr. Fenton."

    Jen Ames nted herself squarely in Fenton''s path, exuding an air of authority. She pulled out a bank card and held it out to him. "Mr. Fenton, represent me in court. Every cent of the hundred million on this card is yours."

    Jen looked at Fenton with absolute confidence-who could possibly turn down that kind of money?

    Fenton arched an eyebrow. Rather than epting right away, he nced over at Lyman.

    Lyman said nothing, simply gazing back at Fenton, unwavering.

    Only then did Jen notice Lyman standing beside him.

    The second her eyesnded on Lyman, her expression darkened and the confident smile vanished from her face.

    Without hesitation, she slipped the card back into her purse. "I understand," she said crisply.

    With that, Jen spun on her heel and strode away.

    She was alone, yet the force of her presence made it feel as if an army marched behind her, her aura unmistakable.

    Fenton turned to Lyman, a wry smile tugging at his lips. "You saw that, right? I just threw away a hundred million dors for you."

    "I''ll make it up to you," Lyman replied.

    Fenton''s smile widened. "Excellent."

    "Let''s go check on your wife first."

    At the mention of Effie, Lyman''s expression grew somber.

    He''d never been this worried-not until now.

    They arrived at the police station just in time to witness Mitchell, thoroughly drunk, being dragged out by two officers and dumped unceremoniously onto the steps.

    Mitchellnded right at Lyman''s feet.

    Lyman stopped.

    Sensing someone''s presence, Mitchell looked up and locked eyes with Lyman. His gaze hardened, his voice cold. "You never really loved Effie. Why can''t you just let her go?"

    Lyman couldn''t be bothered to respond. He moved to step around Mitchell and head inside.

    But Mitchelltched onto Lyman''s ankle, shouting, "I''m the only one who can save Effie now-I know Director Nichols, did you know that?"

    Lyman shook off his grip and strode toward the station entrance.

    Fenton called out after him, teasing, "Hey, the guy knows Director Nichols. Maybe you should just hand your wife over to him-then you wouldn''t have to deal with all the Etheridge family headaches."

    Lyman''s troubles with his extended family had only escted since Effie ran afoul of the Ames family. Healy Etheridge, the family''s second son, and Fowler Etheridge, the third, had bothe to see Lyman, urging him not to risk the empire the Etheridge family had spent years building for the sake of a single woman.

    "The Ames family''s influence is overwhelming they have their hands in everything, legal or not. If you really cross them, they''ll make it impossible for us to do business," Healy warned.

    "Exactly. We can''t let one bad apple spoil everything for us," Fowler chimed in quickly.

    Lyman shot them a cold look. "Uncle Healy, Uncle Fowler, Effie is my wife. I have

    a legal and moral duty to look after her for the rest of my life."

    "She brought this on herself-she should face the consequences," Fowler snapped.

    "Then we''ll face them together," Lyman replied, voice steely and resolute.

    Healy''s jaw clenched so hard it looked like he might break a tooth. "Face them together? What are you going to do-risk half of Etheridge Group for her? If ourpany takes a hit, we''ll be vulnerable on every side. Thepetition will crush us like ants!"

    "Enough!"

    At that moment, Bancroft Etheridge, supported by Lindy, made his slow but dignified way over to join them.

 Chapter 284

    "This is outrageous! The Ames family-such a minor n-has managed to intimidate all of you like this?" Bancroft''s voice was cold and sharp. "Effie is Lyman''s wife, which makes her part of the Etheridge family now. Lyman must go and get her back. If he doesn''t, what will everyone think of us? Not just us, but even our children and grandchildren will beughed at, drowned in shame for generations!"

    "Dad, you don''t understand. Things aren''t the way they used to be. The Ames family isn''t what it once was..."

    Bancroft stomped his foot in frustration. "I don''t care what the Ames family has be. The Etheridge family never backs down! If you''re all so terrified, then say the word¡ªI''ll cut all ties, and you can tell everyone I''m no longer your father."

    Healy and Fowler panicked at that, rushing to protest. "Dad, that''s not what we meant! We''re just thinking of what''s best for the Etheridge family, that''s all¡ª" "Enough," Bancroft snapped. "If you''re against it, there''s nothing more to discuss."

    His words rang out with finality, silencing the room. No one dared say another word.

    Turning to Lyman, Bancroft said, "Go on, Lyman. Do what you have to do. Your grandfather and the Etheridge family will always have your back. Bring Effie home, safe and sound."

    Healy and Fowler exchanged nces, resentment simmering beneath the surface. Effie came from nothing, not a single rtive had shown up to help-only the Etheridge family, left fighting this battle alone.

    This was all Lyman''s fault-they were paying the price for his choices.

    Lyman looked at Bancroft, moved nearly to tears. "Thank you, Grandpa."

    Bancroft waved him off. "No need for thanks. We''re family."

    Lyman hurried out. Lindy watched him go, worry etched across her face. There wasn''t much she could do except silently pray that nothing bad would happen to Effie.

    Lyman knew his family had never truly epted Effie, but at least they hadn''t made it too obvious¡ªuntil now. This crisis had revealed everyone''s true colors.

    "They''re them. I''m me," Lyman muttered to Fenton as they headed to the police station.

    The moment Lyman entered, everyone stopped and stared.

    "My wife''s in there. I want to see her," Lyman demanded.

    "Mr. Etheridge, ording to protocol, you can''t see her right now¡ª"

    "Protocol?" Lyman cut him off, his voice icy. "Are you really following the rules here?"

    Fenton stepped in, his tone sharp. "Why is it that when Mrs. Etheridge asked for awyer, you all just ignored her?"

    The officers exchanged nervous looks. How did Lyman know Effie had asked for an attorney? Had word gotten out?

    But Fenton had spoken up on his own-after all, Lyman had always said Effie was smart. Of course she''d know to ask for legal counsel.

    "Take me to see her. Now." Lyman''s words were cold as death, each syble like a warning from the underworld.

    Effie felt dizzy, her head heavy and throbbing. She was barely conscious, teetering on the edge of cking out.

    Suddenly, the interrogation room door creaked open again.

    Her heart skipped a beat. Were they speeding things up? At first, they''d

    interrogated her every hour, demanding a confession. Then it was every thirty minutes. Now, not even half an hour had passed and they were back.

    They really were trying to break her.

    "Sweetheart." Lyman''s voice, thick with worry, cut through the fog.

    Effie heard him and froze, unsure if she was dreaming.

 Chapter 285

    Lyman''s heart twisted painfully as he took in Effie''s disheveled and miserable state. Without hesitation, he barked, "Someone get me some water-now! And call a doctor!"

    He rushed to Effie''s side, taking her trembling hand in his.

    Effie had fought back her tears for so long, but now, they finally broke free. Her voice was hoarse as she managed, "H-honey..."

    Lyman gathered her carefully into his arms, holding her as if she might shatter at the slightest touch.

    "I''m here now. I won''t let anyone hurt you again," he promised, his voice fierce with guilt and anger. "I''m sorry I didn''t know sooner. I thought you were just at work-until Shirley came looking for me, I had no idea..."

    He looked at her, devastated by regret.

    If he''d known what had happened to Effie, he would have dropped everything ande for her, instead of waiting until now. Normally, he checked in on her whenever he could, but today, he''d been tied up in an important international meeting. He''d texted her when he got a spare moment, but when she didn''t reply, work swept him away and he lost track of time.

    Effie shook her head weakly. "It''s... not your fault..."

    "I thought they''d just take me away for a private settlement. I never imagined they''d actually call the police and bring me here. They must be sure of themselves -like no one could save me."

    She hesitated, then added, "If they give you trouble, don''t worry about me. I won''t confess to anything. Just get me a goodwyer."

    Even now, battered and exhausted, she was still thinking about Lyman.

    "I''m taking you home right now," he said, determination hardening his voice.

    Just then, Fenton arrived, a doctor and a bottle of water in tow.

    When Effie saw the water, her eyes lit up. "Water..."

    "Easy-slowly now," Lyman cautioned as he helped her drink.

    The water revived her, like a parched traveler stumbling upon an oasis. Color returned to her cheeks, and she managed to sit up straighter.

    Lyman turned to Fenton. "Can I take her now?"

    Fenton nodded. "Yes, you can."

    There was a flicker of somethingplicated in Fenton''s eyes as he looked at Lyman.

    He''d just gotten back from a business trip out of town, where he''d been auditing the books for a major corporation. He''d only returned that day¡ªjust in time for this mess. He''d heard about Lyman''s sudden marriage from the group chat and even teased him about it, saying, "Wee to the graveyard of love-may you not repeat my mistakes." Lyman had replied with nothing but a rolling-eyes emoji.

    Fenton had always wondered what kind of woman could win over someone as cold and guarded as Lyman, and in such a whirlwind romance, no less. The moment heid eyes on Effie, he understood.

    He shook off the thought and told Lyman again, "You''re good to go."

    "Thank you," Lyman said, and gently carried Effie out.

    As they reached the front steps of the precinct, Mitchell spotted them and rushed

    over, eyes wide with panic. "Effie!"

    Effie froze for a second, surprised to see him there.

    Why is Mitchell here?

    ¡°Effie, I asked my mom to call Director Nichols, but it didn''t seem to help. I''m sorry," Mitchell blurted out.

    Effie had always known that Mitchell''s family had a "get-out-of-jail-free card"¡ªbut it could only be used once.

    She''d heard that Adeline had called Director Nichols, and she gave a tired, bitterugh. "Mitchell, why are you so na?ve? Did you really think your mom would waste something that valuable on me?"

    Mitchell''s throat tightened. For a moment, he couldn''t say a word.

    He waspletely sober now, and the weight of everything that had happened hit him all at once.

 Chapter 286

    He''d had his doubts earlier, but deep down, Lyman couldn''t believe Adeline would ever lie to him.

    Now, hearing Effie''s words, it felt as if someone had driven a needle straight into his heart-he was so stunned, he couldn''t even speak.

    At that moment, Jen strode over, nked by a group of men in ck suits. Their imposing presence radiated menace, as if they''d just stepped out from the shadows of a mob movie.

    Jen fixed her gaze on Lyman and said, "Lyman Etheridge, if you walk out of here with her today, you''ll be making an enemy of the Ames family. Is that a risk you''re willing to take?"

    Lyman let out a coldugh, clearly unfazed by her threat. "All this over a worthless nobody? Is he really worth all the trouble you''re going to for revenge?"

    He paused, then added, "If you don''t let us leave right now, your useless husband won''t fare any better."

    Jen hesitated for a split second, her jaw clenched, eyes burning with fury. "What did you do to him?"

    Lyman replied, ¡°Anyone who tries toe after me should make sure their own back door is locked. I can''t tell if you''re here for revenge, or if you''re just serving him up on a silver tter."

    Right then, Luther''s phone rang out with Hanley''s anguished cries.

    Jen''s eyes widened in horror as she saw Hanley''s face twisted in pain on the screen. She screamed, "Hanley!"

    Through gritted teeth, Hanley looked at Jen, his voice trembling. "Let... let them go..."

    Jen''s fists balled, her gaze now fixed on Lyman.

    So that was his game-Lyman had staged all this as a distraction, just to snatch Hanley while Jen''s attention was elsewhere.

    Lyman nced at her coolly. "Keep your pathetic husband in line. From now on, let''s stay out of each other''s business."

    Jen''s eyes narrowed dangerously, her voice cial. "Not a chance. She shattered my husband''s pride-I''m not letting her off that easily. Unless..."

    Her eyes flicked between Effie and Lyman. "Either one of you will do."

    Just imagining what Jen meant made Effie''s skin crawl.

    Sure, Hanley had thrown the first punch, but with someone as unreasonable and domineering as Jen, logic was useless.

    Effie opened her mouth to speak, but Lyman cut her off sharply. "Absolutely not."

    "You-!" Jen''s face flushed crimson with rage.

    "Then neither of you is leaving here today!" she snapped, teeth clenched.

    Effie''s heart leapt into her throat. She clung to Lyman''s sleeve, her knuckles white.

    Lyman leaned closer to her, his voice gentle and reassuring. ¡°Don''t worry. We''ll be fine."

    Jen''s expression darkened even further. Watching the two of them exchange intimate words right in front of her, as if she didn''t even exist, was infuriating.

    With a furious wave of her hand, she ordered her men to act.

    But no one moved. Jen froze, then spun around-only to realize that Lyman''s men had already subdued her entire crew.

    Lyman turned to Jen, his voice calm and unyielding. "Let''s be honest-you''re no match for me. So which one of us do you think is leaving here today?"

    Jen red at him, as though she could burn a hole through his skull.

    Across the room, the police officers wiped nervous sweat from their brows. These people were insane-fighting right under the noses of the police, as if thew didn''t even exist. If an all-out brawl broke out now, their reputation would be in tatters.

    The two sides stood locked in a tense standoff. Lyman reminded her, "Remember, your pitiful husband is still in my hands. Think carefully."

    Grinding her teeth, Jen finally stepped aside, though not without a final warning. "You just wait. You''ll regret this."

    Lyman''s lips curled in a faint smile. "I''ll be waiting."

 Chapter 287

    Jen never expected to meet someone even more arrogant than herself, but there was simply nothing she could do about Lyman. Frustrated, she had no choice but to leave in defeat.

    Of course, she didn''t leave before throwing out a threat over her shoulder. "Lyman, if anything happens to my husband, I won''t let you off the hook."

    Lyman didn''t even bother to look at her. "I have no interest in dealing with dead weight."

    With that, he turned and walked away, Effie at his side.

    Only after Lyman and Effie had been gone for quite a while did his people finally disperse as well.

    Jen knew she''d lostpletely and humiliatingly so.

    Mitchell stared nkly as Lyman carried Effie away. Deep down, a terrible premonition took root; he knew that this time, once Effie left, there would be no getting her back.

    He reached out helplessly, wing at the empty air, grasping nothing.

    His eyes burned, tears stinging as he dropped into a crouch, hugging his knees to his chest, and sobbed like a child.

    Suddenly, he sensed someone standing in front of him, but he didn''t bother to

    look up.

    Adeline''s voice rang out, sharp and exasperated. "Get up. Don''t embarrass yourself, you useless fool!"

    The moment he heard Adeline, Mitchell snapped his head up, fury in his eyes. "Why? Why didn''t you just call me? Why did you have to trick me?"

    Adeline looked at him with utter disbelief. If he wanted to act like a drunken fool, that was his business-she certainly wasn''t going to y along.

    She said coldly, "An opportunity like that? I''m not wasting it on someone like Effie. If you''ve sobered up, get up ande home with me. Stop making a spectacle of yourself. Your father''s people out there are already running wild. Unless you want to hand them more ammunition, I suggest you get in the car."

    Her words hit Mitchell like a bucket of ice water, the chill jolting him back to his senses.

    He stared numbly, then trudged after Adeline and climbed into the car.

    But resentment still simmered in his chest. After a moment, he muttered, "Lyman just came and took Effie away. He was willing to go against the Ames family just to get her out."

    Adeline paused, her hand on the ignition. A mocking smile curled her lips. "I thought the Etheridge family finally produced someone tough. Turns out he''s just another idiot blinded by romance."

    Mitchell fell silent.

    At Lyman and Effie''s house, Lindy paced anxiously, ncing at the clock every few minutes.

    "Daughter-inw," Bancroft called softly.

    Lindy stopped short and turned to him. "Dad, it''s gettingte. You should try to get some rest."

    But Bancroft shook his head. "How am I supposed to sleep with things like this?" Lindy paused, understanding all too well-her own nerves were just as raw. She didn''t press him further.

    Suddenly, the sound of someone punching in the door code echoed from the entryway.

    Bancroft and Lindy exchanged a hopeful nce and turned toward the door.

    Heavy footsteps sounded in the hall, and a momentter, Friedman hurried through the doorway.

    "Dad, honey, why are you both still up?"

    When Lindy and Bancroft saw it was only Friedman, a flicker of disappointment passed between them.

    Friedman rubbed his nose sheepishly. Apparently, he wasn''t exactly the person anyone wanted to see tonight.

    "I heard something happened to Effie, so I came back right away. How is she?"

    Bancroft''s expression darkened. "Was it your brother or your sister who told you?"

    Friedman replied, "It was my brother. He wanted me to talk Lyman out of going up against the Ames family."

 Chapter 288

    "So, is that what you thought too? Rushing back home just to stop us?" Lindy''s brows were knitted in frustration as she red at Friedman, her voice sharp with irritation.

    Those two brothers had already worked herst nerve; now, to find Friedman had cut his business trip short-what, just to get yelled at too?

    Friedman rubbed the bridge of his nose sheepishly, wondering what he could have possibly done to make both his wife and his father so exasperated with him.

    "Why would I try to stop her? Effie is part of our family. If something''s wrong, it''s our job to help her, not turn our backs."

    He paused, then added, "And those two idiots got a piece of my mind, don''t worry."

    To his relief, he noticed both Lindy''s and his father''s faces softened at that.

    Just then, footsteps sounded at the door. Lyman walked in, carrying Effie in his arms.

    Effie hadn''t expected everyone to be awake. The moment she came in, she found herself under the collective gaze of the family, wide-eyed and slightly

    embarrassed.

    She whispered, "Put me down, please."

    "Oh, don''t bother, don''t bother," Lindy said with a relieved sigh, her mood much improved now that Effie was home safe. "It''ste, we''ll head back now."

    "You two should get some rest too," she added.

    Effie''s cheeks flushed. She looked at the three of them, flustered. "Grandpa, Mom, Dad, you really don''t have to go back and forth. Why don''t you just stay here tonight?"

    "No, no, it''s fine. We live close by, it''s hardly any trouble at all."

    Lindy exchanged a knowing look with Friedman and Bancroft; without another word, the two men followed her out. In Lindy''s mind, this was Effie and Lyman''s little haven-having the elders around would only make the young couple

    ufortable.

    Truthfully, Effie didn''t mind them staying. Her invitation had been genuine.

    As she watched them leave, she felt a twinge of guilt.

    Lyman set her gently down and said, "I''ll go run a bath for you."

    "Okay."

    Suddenly, something urred to Effie. She reached out and grabbed Lyman''s hand. "I''m sorry."

    Back in the car, she''d been so exhausted she''d fallen asleep clutching his hand. Now, with her strength returning, she wanted to apologize properly.

    Lyman paused, his brow furrowing slightly as he looked at her. "What are you apologizing for?"

    "Because of me, you upset so many people. Even your family''s been worried sick."

    He reached out and tapped her nose affectionately, his voice soft. "Silly girl. We''re family. Looking out for each other is what we do."

    He hesitated, then asked, "If it were me, if you heard I was in trouble, wouldn''t you do everything you could to help me?"

    He couldn''t help it-there was a selfish hope in his question. Even if she was just saying it to make him feel better, he wanted to hear it.

    Effie met his gaze, her voice steady. "I''d risk everything for you. Even my life."

    A slow smile curled at the corners of Lyman''s lips. He pulled her into a tight embrace. In that moment, he knew she was worth every hardship.

    The next few days, Effie took time off work, and Lyman did too, working from home so he could care for her.

    Whenever Effie woke up, she didn''t even have to move; Lyman would scoop her up, carry her to wash up, and then to the kitchen for a meal.

    Afterwards, he''d settle her on the couch with the TV remote and her phone, making sure she wasfortable before getting back to hisptop to work nearby.

    Effie couldn''t help butugh at the whole routine. "I feelpletely useless," she said, grinning up at him.

    Lyman frowned, a hint of concern crossing his face.

 Chapter 289

    "Don''t talk about yourself like that. You''re worth so much more," Lyman said sternly, his eyes fixed on Effie.

    Effie nestled into his arms, her tone teasing and soft. "I''m so happy right now."

    She''d always struggled with insecurity, needing more love than most people. Mitchell, her ex, had always told her to be independent, to stop clinging to him all the time.

    So, over time, Effie learned to hide behind a mask. She stopped sharing her little worries with Mitchell, stopped letting him see the vulnerable parts of her heart.

    Maybe that was why, even when they were together, there always seemed to be an invisible wall between them. Things were never as open and honest as they''d once been.

    But even though she hadn''t known Lyman for long, Effie felt as if she''d known him forever. With Lyman, she could be herselfpletely, unapologetically.

    Just then, the doorbell rang. Effie started to get up, but Lyman beat her to it. "I''II get it," he said.

    Effieughed. "It''s not like my legs are broken, you know."

    Lyman grinned. "Let me have the honor of serving my lovely wife."

    A flush crept up Effie''s cheeks, and she felt the heat rise all the way to her ears.

    Lyman opened the door and found Nita standing there, her eyes rimmed red from crying.

    She hesitated for a split second when she saw Lyman, then managed a greeting. "Mr. Etheridge."

    Lyman nodded. "Please, just call me Lyman."

    Nita thought to herself that with the difference in their status, she could never be so casual.

    "Is Effie here?" Nita''s attention was clearly elsewhere. She peered past Lyman, searching for her friend.

    "She''s here. Come on in," Lyman said, stepping aside.

    Effie stood and came out to greet Nita.

    As soon as Nita saw Effie, she rushed forward and threw her arms around her, sobbing uncontrobly. "Effie..."

    Lyman quietly picked up his tablet and slipped into the study, closing the door behind him.

    Nita cried harder, letting all her emotions out.

    It took a while for Effie to calm her down.

    "I''m so sorry, Effie,¡± Nita said atst, her voice thick with guilt. "This is all my fault. You''ve suffered because of me."

    Effie squeezed Nita''s hand reassuringly. "We both yed a part in this, Nita. Even if I wasn''t the one who started it, I still helped. Neither of us can pretend we''re meless."

    Nita bit her lip and shook her head fiercely. "No, that''s not true..."

    Effie stroked her hand and said softly, "It''s over now. Let''s not talk about it anymore."

    "I know," Nita said. "You just took all the me because you were afraid those people would make things hard for me."

    Effie smiled gently. "I''m not a mind reader, Nita. How could I possibly know what would happen ahead of time?"

    Nita knew Effie was only saying that to make her feel better.

    "Effie, you really are the best friend I''ve ever had." Nita hugged her again, sniffling.

    Effieughed and patted her on the back. "Hey, I''m your best friend. If I don''t look out for you, who will?"

    Something flickered behind Nita''s eyes, a shadow of sadness. "You''re the only person in this world who''s ever truly cared about me."

    "You can trust me¡ªalways. I''ll be here."

    "Oh, right! Didn''t you say you wanted to try the new buffet at Elliott''s Cozy Room? Let''s go together."

    Nita''s eyes sparkled. "Wait, do you mean the new one with all-you-can-eat king crab for $180 a head? The one at Elliott''s Cozy Room?"

    Effie grinned. "That''s the one."

    Nita squealed. "Best friend, I love you."

    Nita ended up spending nearly the entire day with Effie, until eventually Lyman started popping into the room more and more frequently.

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    Suddenly, Nita caught on-Lyman was dropping a hint.

    She had no intention of ying third wheel, so she quickly found an excuse and slipped away.

    After a few days'' rest, Effie finally returned to work.

    The moment she walked back into the office, Irving Butler called her into his office.

    "Effie, you missed your meeting with the client the other day. The client was furious and has already filed aint against you. Tell me, with this kind of work performance, do you really think you should still be working here?"

    Effie shot Irving a cold look. "Irving, you know exactly why I missed that meeting. Since you know, why didn''t you say anything when Mr. Etheridge came asking about it?"

    She was bluffing-letting him know she wasn''t someone he could push around. Irving''s eyes flickered, his lips pressed in a tight line as he stayed silent.

    He figured Effie must have gotten in good with Lyman through Randell somehow. Still, he hadn''t realized Effie and Lyman were actually this close-close enough for Lyman to care about her?

    A sense of unease settled even deeper in Irving''s chest. "Effie, this was a serious mistake. I can''t keep you on staff. I think it''s time you found another job."

    Just like that, he wanted to kick her out?

    Effie looked him straight in the eye. "Irving, none of us are perfect. Mistakes happen¡ªit wasn''t even a matter of principle. And I had a valid reason for missing that meeting. I deserve a chance to make it right. Let me try to fix things with the client. If I fail, you can do whatever you want with my position."

    Irving narrowed his eyes at her, letting out a cold snort.

    Excuses, he thought. Effie sure had plenty.

    But Ms. Cooper wasn''t someone easily appeased. She''d stormed out that day, furious about her time being wasted, and said she''d never trust The Etheridge Group again.

    Irving figured this was a mission impossible.

    If Effie wanted to humiliate herself, he wouldn''t stop her. Once she failed, he''d have an even better reason to fire her.

    "Fine. This is yourst chance. If you mess up again, don''t expect any favors from me."

    "Deal," Effie said. "I understand."

    When Effie left the office, Shirley rushed over, concern written all over her face. "Effie, you were gone for days. The whole office is buzzing with rumors. Are you okay?"

    Effie shook her head. "I''m fine."

    After a pause, she added, "By the way, thank you. If you hadn''t run up to the top floor to get Mr. Etheridge, he never would''ve known something had happened to me."

    Shirley looked worried. "Effie, you really scared me. You''d been gone so long, and I couldn''t reach you on your cell. I just panicked and ran for it."

    She stuck out her tongue sheepishly. "Honestly, I was nervous, too. I kept

    thinking, if you turned out to be fine and I interrupted Mr. Etheridge''s meeting for nothing, I''d be in trouble. But I just couldn''t risk something happening to you."

    Effie smiled. ¡°You did the right thing. Really-you did."

    "I need to head out now."

    "Is it about Ms. Cooper''s ount?" Shirley asked, curiosity piqued.

    "Yeah. I''m going to see if there''s any way to save it."

    Shirley hesitated, then dug a small charm from her pocket. "Here. This is a good luck charm I got from a church. Take it with you."

    Effie looked at the charm andughed. "Isn''t this supposed to bring you financial luck?"

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    Shirley gave an awkward smile. "Oh, this is the only charm I''ve got left on me. But hey, a blessing''s a blessing, right? It''s all the same up there¡ªI just hope it helps a little. I''m like you, you know, one paycheck, doing the work of three people."

    Effieughed. "Isn''t that the truth? The more capable you are, the heavier the workload."

    Effie took the charm from Shirley and slipped it into her pocket. "Thanks, I appreciate it."

    Shirley blushed a little. "Don''t mention it."

    With Shirley''s good wishes, Effie headed out.

    When she reached the hotel, she saw the elevator doors about to close. She

    hurried forward, calling out, "Hold the door, please!"

    Thankfully, someone inside was kind enough to press the ''open'' button and wait for her.

    It was a beautiful young woman with a gentle face.

    Effie nodded at her. "Thanks."

    The woman replied politely, "You''re wee."

    The elevator began its slow ascent. Suddenly, it lurched, and the lights flickered before plunging them into darkness.

    A wave of weightlessness followed.

    Effie stifled her fear and quickly jabbed at every floor button she could find.

    Luckily, after dropping several floors at high speed, the elevator finally shuddered to a stop.

    Even though it wasn''t moving anymore, Effie''s heart was pounding so loudly she was afraid to move. She pressed the emergency call button, and after a tense wait, a voice finally came through. Effie exined the situation, and the operator assured her that help was on the way.

    Just then, Effie heard the sound of panicked breathing.

    She turned on her phone''s shlight and swung it toward the woman behind her. The girl''s face was ghostly pale; she was tugging at her cor, struggling to breathe.

    Effie rushed to her side, her voice gentle. "Hey, are you alright? Are you feeling unwell?"

    The woman swallowed hard, her voice strained. "I''m... scared. I can''t breathe."

    Effie spoke soothingly. "It''s okay. We''re safe now. I''ve already called for help- they''ll be here soon."

    "If you don''t mind, let me help you," Effie offered.

    She unbuttoned the top of the woman''s blouse to help her breathe more easily, then pulled out some papers to fan her gently.

    The woman clung tightly to Effie''s hand. With Effie''s calm presence beside her, she gradually began to steady herself. The panic faded from her eyes.

    They waited what felt like an eternity before rescue finally arrived.

    One of the staff members said, "You''re lucky you hit the emergency stop in time."

    Effie let out a shaky breath, feeling as if she''d just survived a close call.

    "Thank you, ma''am," the young woman said, looking at Effie with sincere gratitude.

    Some color returned to her cheeks atst.

    Effie smiled. "You''re wee."

    After saying goodbye, Effie made her way to the rooftop caf¨¦.

    She scanned the room and finally spotted Ms. Cooper.

    Effie approached her. "Ms. Cooper, hello."

    Ms. Cooper looked up, suspicion flickering in her eyes. "And you are...?"

    Effie introduced herself. "Ms. Cooper, I''m Effie, a designer in the jewelry department at The Etheridge Group."

    The moment Effie said her name, Ms. Cooper''s expression darkened. Her tone turned icy. "Save the exnations. You stood me up the other day and left me waiting for ages."

    "I''m really sorry about that. It was my fault. Something unexpected happened, and

    I couldn''t reach out in time. I sincerely apologize," Effie said.

    "That''s why, as soon as I got back to work, I contacted you right away," Effie added.

    "In fact, I tried calling you as soon as I could, but I couldn''t get through," she exined further.

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    Effie hadn''t lied-when Ms. Cooper got angry, she really did block Effie''s number.

    Effie spoke up again, her tone earnest. "I admit, I really didn''t handle things well before, and I wasted your valuable time. I want to sincerely apologize. If you''re willing, please give me another chance. This time, I promise I''ll put my full effort into your design and deliver a result that satisfies you."

    Ms. Cooper''s expression softened a little. Effie wasn''t making excuses or shifting me¡ªshe was taking responsibility and apologizing.

    But even so, Ms. Cooper wasn''t swayed. She simply couldn''t forgive someone who didn''t respect her time.

    "I ept your apology," Ms. Cooper said crisply, "but I don''t think we need to continue working together."

    Effie persisted. "Actually, I''ve been reviewing your requests these past few days. I put together a new design draft based on your feedback. This is just the first draft would you like to take a look?"

    She slid the portfolio across the table toward Ms. Cooper.

    But Ms. Cooper was a perfectionist-organized, meticulous, and demanding nothing less than excellence. The moment she noticed the crumpled sheets in Effie''s portfolio, her gaze darkened, a sh of displeasure in her eyes.

    "You bring me a wrinkled draft?" she said sharply. "That shows you don''t respect me or my project. I see no reason to look any further."

    Effie bit her lip. The designs had been fine earlier-something must have happened along the way... But what was the point of making excuses? Wrinkled was wrinkled.

    She bowed her head. "I''m sorry. That''s on me. But regardless of the paper, the designs themselves are good. Would you at least take a look-?"

    Before she could finish, Ms. Cooper brushed her hand aside, and Effie lost her grip¡ªthe portfolio scattered, pages spilling across the floor.

    Effie hurried to crouch down, gathering the sheets as quickly as she could.

    Just then, two people approached and greeted Ms. Cooper. "Ms. Cooper, good morning."

    Ms. Cooper''s demeanor shifted in an instant, her tone warming. "Good morning, Miss Isabel."

    Isabel shed a bright, poised smile. "Sorry, the traffic was rough this morning. I was afraid I''d bete."

    Ms. Cooper checked her watch and gave a small shake of her head. "Not at all. I was simply early."

    Ms. Cooper was famously punctual-she hated making people wait, and she hated being made to wait just as much. As a rule, she always arrived ahead of time.

    Isabel said, "Thank you so much for inviting me to represent yourpany''s new product."

    Ms. Cooper replied, "You''re very wee. My daughter is a huge fan-she''s looked up to you for years. That''s the real reason I wanted you as our spokesperson."

    "Really? That''s such an honor for me," Isabel replied, her face lighting up.

    Ms. Cooper went on, "She''s actually here today. I''ll introduce youter, if that''s alright?"

    "I''d love that."

    By now, Effie had managed to gather almost all the scattered pages-except for one, which had ended up beneath Isabel''s foot.

    Just as Effie reached for it, Isabel noticed a hand at her feet and, startled, instinctively stepped back.

    Effie was just about to pick up thest page.

    Isabel saw what was happening, and with a deliberate motion, shifted her shoe to

    pin Effie''s hand. "Oh! You startled me," she said with exaggerated surprise.

    Ms. Cooper remained silent, but she''d seen the whole exchange.

    "Mommy!" A familiar child''s voice rang out. Effie instinctively looked up.

    Her gaze met that of a young girl, who immediately hurried over with bright eyes. "Hey, it''s you!" she called to Effie.

    Ms. Cooper looked from Effie to her daughter, suspicion flickering in her expression. "Lina, do you two know each other?"

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    Lina recounted the entire incident to Ms. Cooper, her words animated and expressive. Ms. Cooper listened intently, her gaze never leaving her daughter.

    Just then, Isabel, distracted, stepped backward and identally bumped into the table. The coffee spilled everywhere, sshing across the tablecloth and scattering napkins. Chaos erupted for a moment as everyone''s attention snapped to Isabel.

    Carole seized the opportunity, gently grabbing Isabel''s hand under the table, giving her a reassuring squeeze. Isabel bit her lip, too tense to say a word.

    Effie''s sharp eyes didn''t miss a thing. She looked at Isabel and asked, "Miss Isabel, you seem awfully nervous all of a sudden. Is everything alright?"

    Isabel shot Effie a re and snapped, "And what exactly makes you think I''m nervous?"

    Effie just shrugged, shing a polite smile. ¡°Oh, my mistake. Maybe I read you wrong."

    Turning back to Ms. Cooper, Lina said, "Mom, if it hadn''t been for her-really, the rescue team said so if she hadn''t pressed all those buttons and stopped the elevator, we might not have gotten out safely."

    Ms. Cooper, still shaken by the memory, pulled Lina in for a tight hug.

    Suddenly remembering something, she turned to Effie. "Thank you," she said sincerely.

    Effie shook her head. "You don''t need to thank me. I was in the elevator too. I just did what anyone would do. If I hadn''t, I''d have been in trouble as well."

    She nced around at the gathering and added, "Since you have guests to entertain, I won''t keep you. I''ll be off now. Perhaps we''ll talk again another time."

    With that, Effie took her leave.

    Her calm, unassuming manner left a favorable impression on Ms. Cooper. Effie hadn''t tried to take credit for saving Lina, which made Ms. Cooper appreciate her even more.

    Once things had settled, Lina turned to her mother. "Mom, why did thatdye by earlier, anyway?"

    Ms. Cooper replied, "She''s a jewelry designer. I was thinking ofmissioning a set for your graduation gift. But she waste-didn''t even show up for our meeting. I don''t want to work with someone who has no sense of time or responsibility."

    Lina''s eyes widened in disappointment. ¡°That''s a shame. She didn''t seem like that kind of person to me. Maybe she had a good reason?"

    Ms. Cooper said nothing, her silence speaking volumes.

    Suddenly, Isabel, who had been ignored until now, spoke up. "You''re still young, Lina. You don''t always know what''s in someone''s heart. Some people only get close to you because they want something."

    Lina froze, then frowned. "No way. She doesn''t even know me," she protested.

    Isabel pressed on. "Ms. Cooper never invited her here today. Yet somehow she managed to find her way in. Don''t you think that''s odd?"

    Lina pursed her lips and fell silent, doubt flickering across her face. Isabel had a point, even if Lina didn''t want to believe it.

    Sensing an opening, Isabel decided to stir the pot a little more. "To be honest, Designer Bagnold isn''t that talented. I once asked her to design some jewelry for me, and her work looked suspiciously simr to pieces by famous international designers. She just called it ''inspiration,'' but wouldn''t admit to copying."

    She left her usation hanging, offering just enough truth to be believable without going too far. Her aim was clear: cast doubt on Effie''s reputation.

    Lina red at her. "Why are you speaking badly about her?" she demanded.

    Isabel faltered. Wasn''t Lina supposed to admire her? Why was she defending Effie instead?

    Trying to recover, Isabel said, "Lina, do you even know who I am?¡±

    Lina narrowed her eyes. "Does it really matter who you are?"

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    Isabel was unwilling to give up. She pressed on, "It''s me, Isabel."

    Lina replied coolly, "I know. So what?"

    "But you" Isabel was at a loss for words. Was Lina out of her mind?

    Lina continued, ¡°I used to like you, honestly. When my mom was choosing a brand ambassador, I thought your image really matched the message herpany wanted to convey, so I encouraged her to pick you."

    "But now I see, you''re not at all like the person you pretend to be on screen."

    "They say distance makes the heart grow fonder. I never really believed it¡ªuntil now."

    Lina turned toward Ms. Cooper. "Mom."

    She didn''t need to say anything else; Ms. Cooper understood perfectly. Ever since the divorce, it had just been the two of them. She could read her daughter''s mind with a single nce.

    Ms. Cooper looked at Isabel and said, "I''m sorry, Miss Isabel, but we''ll have to cancel our partnership."

    Isabel was furious. She hadn''t done anything¡ªwhy was the deal suddenly off? Didn''t they realize how much time and effort she''d poured into this coboration?

    As if reading Isabel''s thoughts, Ms. Cooper added, "I saw what happened earlier. You deliberately stepped on Miss Bagnold''s hand, and you clearly tried to smear her reputation. If the two of you were rivals, Miss Bagnold has outssed you by far. She never once spoke ill of you just now, yet you kept attacking her."

    Isabel felt as if she had just swallowed a mouthful of flies-disgusted, but with no words to defend herself.

    It was true. She had done it on purpose.

    She just hadn''t expected Ms. Cooper to see right through her.

    Are all businesspeople really this sharp?

    Isabel tried to protest, but no words came out.

    "Huh? What''s this?" Lina suddenly noticed a sheet of paper on the floor. She picked it up and paused in surprise. "This must belong to Miss Bagnold. When we were stuck in the elevator, she used these papers to fan me and help me cool down."

    Ms. Cooper hesitated, taken aback.

    If anyone else had said it, she might not have believed them. But Lina was her daughter-she trusted herpletely.

    So those creases she''d criticized weren''t because Effie was careless or disrespectful. They were from saving her daughter?

    But why didn''t Effie say anything?

    "Wow, Mom, is this piece as beautiful in real life?" Lina''s eyes sparkled as she stared at Effie''s jewelry design.

    "If a ne like this really exists, I''d love to have one."

    Ms. Cooper took the photo from Lina and studied it carefully, aplicated

    emotion flickering in her eyes.

    "Mom?"

    "I''m fine. Let''s go," Ms. Cooper said, gently steering Lina away.

    Isabel, still unwilling to let go, turned to Ms. Cooper. "Miss Lina, you''ve never even spent time with me. Isn''t it unfair to dismiss all my efforts after just one brief encounter? Can''t you give me a chance?"

    Lina frowned in annoyance. "It''s true, I used to admire you. But as I said, distance adds a certain charm. Now that I''ve met you, the illusion''s shattered. You''re not at all the person I imagined you to be."

    Lina paused, as if she had more to say.

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    "I''d much rather spend time with someone like Miss Bagnold," Lina said.

    "Mom, let''s go."

    With that, Lina and Ms. Cooper walked away, leaving Isabel standing alone. For a moment, Isabel swayed on her feet as if caught in a sudden gale.

    Carole shot her a worried nce. Isabel''s fists were clenched so tightly her nails almost broke the skin of her palms.

    "Isabel, are you alright?"

    Isabel''s voice was barely more than a strangled whisper. "Why? Why does everyone like Effie? What''s so special about her? She''s just ordinary. How could she possiblypare to me, an artist? I''m so much more refined than she is!"

    Carole let out a sigh. She had to admit, Isabel had been through a lottely.

    Just the other day at the hotel, Isabel had tried to subtly badmouth Effie, only to end up annoying Annabel and earning herself a sharp rebuke.

    And now, a child had openly said she preferred Effie over her. No wonder Isabel was livid.

    Carole said gently, "You''re just too eager. Effie loves to y the innocent¡ªshe hardly says a word, and somehow everyone thinks the best of her. Meanwhile, you..."

    "I wanted to stop you just now, but you rushed ahead and brushed me off. See what happened?"

    Isabel bit her lip, realizing her impulsiveness had backfired.

    "So what do I do now?" She looked at Carole, lost.

    This partnership had been a sure thing. Once the contract was signed, thepany would get a seven-figure endorsement fee-and half of that would have gone to her.

    Now, all that money had just slipped through her fingers.

    If Annabel found out, she''d be furious-and Isabel would probably get another lecture.

    Carole thought for a moment, then came up with a n.

    "Here''s what we''ll do. When we get back to the office, say nothing. If Ms. Annabel asks, let me do the talking."

    "And what exactly will you say?" Isabel asked anxiously.

    She felt like nothing was going her way these days. Maybe she needed to say a prayer or two, and definitely keep a lower profile.

    Carole replied, "I''ll keep it simple. I''ll just say they changed their minds at thest minute, and that you did your best to persuade them otherwise. No need to go into details."

    Isabel pressed her lips together. Perhaps it was time to learn a thing or two from Effie''s act¡ªmaybe then Annabel would go easy on her.

    Effie returned to the office, and as soon as he heard she was back, Irving Butler strode out of his office.

    He wanted to humiliate Effie in front of everyone, so there was no way he''d let her get settled in first.

    With a disdainful snort, he marched up to her and rapped his knuckles on the desk. His voice rang out, sharp and loud: "Effie, where''s the contract? Did you close the deal?"

    Effie replied simply, "No."

    Irving had expected as much. Ms. Cooper was known to be a tough negotiator. He sneered, "Since you failed to close the deal, pack your things and leave. Don''t say I didn''t give you a chance!"

    Effie''s brow furrowed slightly. She answered, "The day isn''t even over yet. Why are you so sure I can''tnd this ount? Tell me, in all your years here, has any high-end jewelry contract ever been wrapped up in a single meeting?"

    Irving Butler had been at thepany long enough to know she was right.

    But that didn''t mean he''d admit it.

    Rules were made by people, after all. In the end, it was always his word that counted.

    "Fine. Keep struggling if you like. I''ll wait until the end of the day," Irving scoffed, clearly dismissing her, then turned and marched back into his office.

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    Shirley shot Effie a sympathetic look. "Irving is just in awful. He''s deliberately setting traps for you-he wants you gone."

    She paused, then leaned in, lowering her voice. "Why don''t you go talk to Mr. Etheridge?"

    With Lyman backing her, surely Irving Butler wouldn''t dare pull any more stunts. Effie shook her head. "It''s not worth bothering him over something this minor." Besides, she wasn''t about to let Irving Butler off the hook that easily.

    Just then, the receptionist arrived with Ms. Cooper and Lina in tow.

    Effie blinked in surprise. "What are you two doing up here?"

    Ms. Cooper turned to Effie, her expression apologetic. "I owe you an apology for earlier. Would you mind walking me through your entire design in detail?"

    Effie hesitated for half a second, then quickly nodded. "Of course, I''d be happy to."

    "Shall we move to the conference room?" she suggested.

    "Perfect."

    Shirley watched them from a distance, not quite sure what was being said, but as soon as Effie and the others entered the conference room, she went over to prepare some coffee and water for them-the Etheridge Group always prided itself on hospitality.

    No one expected Effie, Ms. Cooper, and Lina to remain in the conference room for so long. Before anyone realized it, the workday was nearly over.

    Suddenly, Irving Butler stormed out of his office, his tone sharp. "Where''s Effie? Where did she go?"

    Seeing her desk empty, he smirked to himself, assuming Effie had gotten scared and left early. Good-maybe she finally realized her ce and saved him the trouble of firing her.

    "Mr. Butler, Effie''s in the conference room, she-" Shirley began.

    But Irving''s face darkened instantly. "Effie has the nerve to monopolize the conference room now?"

    Shirley hurried to exin. "No, Mr. Butler, she''s meeting with clients in there."

    "Clients? What clients? Don''t make excuses!" Irving snapped, striding towards the conference room. He flung open the door and barked, "Effie, the day''s over. Pack your things and get out. Or do you want me to handle your termination personally?"

    Lina looked at Effie in shock. "Miss Bagnold, you''re leaving? Does that mean you won''t be handling our ount anymore? If you''re not with us the whole way, I won''t feelfortable."

    Ms. Cooper chimed in, "That''s right. If it''s not you, I''m not signing anything."

    Irving paused, Ms. Cooper''s voice sounding vaguely familiar, though he couldn''t quite ce it.

    Effie turned to reassure them. "It''s just a misunderstanding. I''m not going anywhere."

    Irving scoffed, "Don''t make empty promises, Effie. I told you-if you couldn''tnd Ms. Cooper''s contract, you were out. Don''t think picking up a few small deals will make up for your blunder!"

    Ms. Cooper let out a coldugh and said deliberately, "So, the Etheridge Group isn''t interested in my contract?"

    She had always been fiercely protective of her own, and after hours spent brainstorming with Effie, she''d grown to genuinely like this talented, gentle, and remarkablyposed young woman. Seeing Effie bullied like this didn''t sit right with her.

    Irving hesitated, still unaware just how valuable this client''s contract might be. Judging by her appearance¡ªa woman with a young girl in tow-he figured she was probably the type to pinch pennies anyway.

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    "Ma''am, you must have misunderstood. As long as you sign with The Etheridge Group, we''ll take full responsibility. We guarantee you''ll be satisfied with the final product," Irving Butler assured Ms. Cooper, his tone smooth and practiced.

    Odd. He was sure he''d heard that voice before-there was something uncannily familiar about it.

    Effie watched Irving Butler, her thoughts sharp. Typical old fox, she mused. Not a single crack in his armor.

    ¡°If Effie doesn''t stay on this ount, the deal''s off,¡± Ms. Cooper said, her gaze unwavering on Irving Butler.

    He barely concealed his indifference. "Well, that''s unfortunate, but since Effie failed to meet thepany''s requirements, she''ll have to be let go. If you refuse to work with another team member, we simply can''t take your business."

    Ms. Cooper let out a short, coldugh. "Fine."

    Effie turned to him. "Mr. Butler, do you even know who thisdy is?"

    "How should I know?" he scoffed.

    "She''s Ms. Cooper. The same Ms. Cooper you specifically asked me to handle."

    "What?!" Irving Butler''s eyes widened in disbelief.

    It hit him all at once-memory snapping into ce. No wonder her voice had sounded so familiar. She was that Ms. Cooper.

    The moment he realized who she was, his demeanor flipped. He forced a wide, obsequious smile. "Ms. Cooper, my apologies. I didn''t recognize you-my mistake entirely."

    Ms. Cooper lifted her chin, cool and regal. "Weren''t you just refusing to take my business?"

    "No, no, not at all! Total misunderstanding, I assure you," Irving Butler stammered, twisting his lips into a strained grin.

    "Can I get you something to drink? It''s nearly lunchtime¡ªI''d be delighted to take you out¡ª"

    Ms. Cooper raised a hand to cut him off. "That won''t be necessary. All I want is for Designer Bagnold to handle my ount."

    She fixed him with a steely look. "You said if Designer Bagnold didn''t sign with me, she''d be out. Well, I''ve signed. What do you have to say now?"

    "I... I owe her an apology." Forcing himself to swallow his pride, Irving turned to Effie, his jaw visibly clenched though he tried to look contrite. "Effie, I''m truly sorry. This was all a misunderstanding. Why didn''t you tell me earlier?"

    Trying to shift the me, as always.

    Effie raised an eyebrow, the corners of her mouth twitching. "Did you give me a chance to?"

    Irving Butler was left speechless.

    "That''s settled, then. I''ll being to Designer Bagnold for all future projects," Ms. Cooper dered.

    "Lina, we''re leaving." She gestured to her assistant.

    Lina lingered for a moment, reluctant to go. "Miss Bagnold, goodbye."

    "Goodbye," Effie replied with a gentle smile.

    Irving Butler, desperate to salvage his dignity, hustled over. "Ms. Cooper, let me walk you out."

    "No need. I''d prefer Effie to do that," Ms. Cooper replied curtly.

    Irving''s smile froze, mortification coloring his cheeks. The department manager, upstaged by his own employee.

    At the elevator, Ms. Cooper turned to Effie. "That''s far enough. Thank you." Effie grinned. "Of course."

    Lina nced back, whispering, "Miss Bagnold, your boss is such a dog-not just in looks, but in how he acts, too."

    Recalling Irving Butler''s groveling performance, Effie had to admit, Lina had a point. Sheughed. "He really is, isn''t he?"

    Ms. Cooper added, "I stood up for you back there. If you ever need anything, just let me know. I''ve got your back."

 Chapter 298

    Effie nced gratefully at Ms. Cooper. Truth be told, she could have handled Irving Butler herself, but the fact that Ms. Cooper had stepped in on her behalf meant a lot to her.

    "Thank you, Ms. Cooper."

    Ms. Cooper waved it off with a smile. "You saved Lina. Helping you out was the least I could do." She paused, then added, "Let me buy you dinner sometime."

    Effie grinned. "I''d like that."

    Just then, the elevator doors slid open, revealing Lyman and Luther inside.

    Lyman knew this floor belonged to the design department, and he instinctively looked out, surprised to see Effie standing right by the elevator. His eyes lit up. At that moment, Effie looked up and met his gaze. She raised the corner of her mouth in a subtle greeting.

    Lyman couldn''t help but smile back.

    Luther, standing beside him, suddenly understood why Mr. Etheridge insisted on taking the regr elevator instead of his private one-it was for her!

    What Luther didn''t know was that, for the past few days, Lyman and Effie had barely left each other''s side, only separating for bathroom breaks and sleep. Having to be apart for so long now felt like an eternity for Lyman; he was just going through the motions at work.

    Desperate to see her even a minute sooner, he''d had to get creative.

    "Goodbye, Ms. Cooper," Luther said politely.

    "Goodbye," Ms. Cooper replied.

    Just as Effie turned to leave, Lyman shot her a discreet look, signaling for her to meet him in the parking lot.

    Effie gave a slight nod before walking away.

    At that moment, Irving Butler came out of his office. All he saw was Effie nodding and smiling toward the elevator, looking smug and pleased with herself. He assumed the smile was meant for Ms. Cooper.

    Now that the client was gone, Irving had no reason to keep up appearances with Effie.

    "Well yed, Effie," Irving sneered. "Didn''t think you had it in you to win over Ms. Cooper." He looked her up and down, his voice dripping with disdain. Surely, he thought, she must have used some underhanded trick.

    Effie narrowed her eyes, a dangerous glint shing in them.

    "You know, Irving," she said, "when your heart''s filthy, you see filth everywhere. Tell me, how much garbage did you eat for lunch today?"

    Irving bristled at her words, but before he could respond, she added, "Seriously, how much dog crap did you swallow? You''re so full of it you can''t help but spread it everywhere you go."

    Irving went pale, then his face turned an ugly shade of red.

    "Effie! Are you actually insulting your boss right now?" he growled, practically choking on his own anger.

    Effie shrugged. "It''s only an insult if it isn''t true. But I''m just stating the facts. Hardly counts as an insult, wouldn''t you say?"

    "You-!"

    She cut him off, pulling out her phone and waving it casually. "Irving, you said yourself that if Inded Ms. Cooper as a client, you wouldn''t try to push me out. I''ve got the whole conversation recorded, just in case you forget.¡±

    Irving''s face darkened even more.

    He hadn''t expected Effie to be this prepared. He clenched his jaw so hard it looked like it might crack. "Of course," he bit out.

    Furious but powerless, he turned and stormed off.

    Once he was gone, Shirley popped her head out from around the corner and gave Effie an enthusiastic thumbs up. "Effie, that was amazing. You really went toe-to- toe with him!"

    Effie grinned. "With guys like him, being polite just makes them worse. Give him an inch and he''ll take a mile."

    Shirley nodded, though concern lingered on her face. "Still... with his personality, I''m worried he mighte after you."

 Chapter 299

    Effie shrugged. "It''s nothing. It''s not like this is the first time he''se after me." "We''ll cross that bridge when wee to it," she added, shing a wry smile.

    Shirley nodded. "True. Besides, you''ve got a rock-solid support system behind you."

    "Alright, enough of your teasing," Effie said, rising from her chair. "My shift''s over. Once you''re done dealing with Peter,e give me a hand."

    Shirley grinned and gave a mock salute. "Yes, ma''am. Your loyal servant obeys."

    With that, Shirley started walking backward out of the office, putting on an exaggeratedly obedient act.

    Effie nearly burst outughing at the sight. She shook her head, unable to hide her smile. "You clown."

    Effie made her way down to the parking garage, where Lyman was already waiting in her car.

    He nced at her as she got in, a smile ying at the corners of his mouth. "You look like you''re in a good mood."

    Still smiling, Effie began recounting Shirley''s antics,ughter bubbling out as she described the scene.

    Lyman, meanwhile, found himself distracted by the curve of Effie''s cheek. But when sheughed, he couldn''t help but smile along with her.

    "Wasn''t she ridiculous?" Effie asked, ncing over at him.

    He nodded. "Absolutely."

    Frankly, it didn''t matter what she said he''d have agreed anyway.

    Just then, Effie''s phone rang. Seeing her grandmother''s name on the screen, her mood lifted even further.

    "Grandma, we''re almost there," she said warmly.

    "Good, drive safe," her grandmother replied. After a pause, she added, "I just called to let you know-we''re out of soy sauce at home. Could you grab a bottle on your way over?"

    "Of course. Is there a particr kind you want, Grandma?"

    "Just the regr, dear. These days there are so many weird options-low-sodium, organic, reduced salt, you name it. It makes my head spin! I never know what''s what. Honestly, nothing beats the good old ssic."

    Before she could finish, there was a sudden knock at the door.

    Forgetting to hang up, Grandma called out, "Coming, just a second!"

    She opened the door with a smile-only to freeze when she saw who was standing there.

    "You?"

    Mitchell stood on the doorstep, holding a basket of fruit, grinning in an attempt to win her over. "Grandma, it''s been ages. I¡ª"

    Before he could finish, Grandma swung the door shut with a thud, muttering, "Ages, my foot. I''d rather not see you at all."

    Mitchell''s grin faltered; he''d barely avoided getting his nose clipped by the door.

    Stubborn old bat, he thought. If it weren''t for the fact that she was Effie''s grandmother, he''d never set foot in this rundown neighborhood. The narrow streets, theck of parking, the potholes he hated everything about it. The people who lived here weren''t any better.

    That''s why, even after years of dating Effie, he could count on one hand the number of times he''d visited.

    If it weren''t for Effie, he wouldn''t be here now.

    He knocked again and tried to sound as sincere as possible. ¡°Grandma, I brought you some peaches your favorite! And your favorite pastries! And Effie''s favorite cheesecake, too."

    Mitchell wasn''t just trying to be thoughtful; he wanted to remind Grandma that he knew Effie better than anyone.

    On the other side of the door, Grandma scoffed. As if she didn''t know exactly what he was up to¡ªhe was far too green to outsmart her.

    Suddenly, the door swung open again.

    Mitchell straightened, stering on his best ingratiating smile. "Grandma, I¡ª"

    She cut him off coldly. "You and Effie are over. It''s done. So let it be done. Show some self-respect, will you?"

 Chapter 300

    Mitchell froze for a split second, then gritted his teeth and said, "Grandma, I can''t live without her. I''ve always just fooled around with other women, but with her, I''m serious. I chased after her for years before she finally agreed to be with me..."

    "If it''s been so hard to get her, why don''t you cherish her?"

    Mitchell shrugged, trying to justify himself. "People always want something new. Just because I fool around doesn''t mean I don''t love her. As long as I know how toe back home in the end, what''s the problem? Why do women always have so many demands? Isn''t it enough to have what you want? Why always want more?"

    His true colors were finally showing.

    His grandmother seemed unsurprised, as if she''d seen through him long ago. Calmly, she said, "You''re not right for Effie. What she needs is a partner who''s faithful, someone she can depend on."

    Mitchell bristled. "And why am I not good enough? You think Lyman is any better? Who does he think he is? Effie isn''t in his league. You really think she deserves someone like Lyman? He''s just using her for fun. When he''s bored, he''ll toss her aside "

    "Get out!" the old woman snapped, her voice suddenly sharp. "To you, you''re always number one. Even you don''t respect Effie, so why would your parents? A man like you doesn''t deserve her. I used to keep my mouth shut because she insisted on being with you. But now that she''s finallye to her senses, I couldn''t be happier for her. Better to cut your losses while you still can."

    She fixed him with a steely re. "If you keep making a scene at my door, I won''t be so polite next time!"

    "Grandma, you need to think this through. Effie''s only going to end up hurt- because nobody knows her better than I do¡ª"

    Before he could finish, Mitchell felt a blur in his vision and was suddenly hit by a wave of something foul and putrid. He gagged, stumbling back as he wiped the disgusting mess off his face. "Ugh-what the hell is this, you crazy old bat?"

    His grandmother looked at him squarely. ¡°Trash belongs with trash.¡±

    A few moments earlier, she''d disappeared into the kitchen. Thankfully, she hadn''t thrown out the fish guts from breakfast yet. After sitting out and fermenting for hours, the stench was even more unbearable.

    Mitchell doubled over, dry-heaving. "Ugh..."

    "Grandma!"

    Effie rushed over, shoving Mitchell aside. Just moments before, she''d heard his voice on the phone and had panicked, fearing for her grandmother''s safety. She''d told Lyman to get them there as fast as possible.

    Lyman had ordered his driver to speed through red lights, and finally, they''d arrived.

    Grandma looked at Effie and said reassuringly, "Don''t worry about me. I''m fine. He''s the one who''s a mess."

    It was only then that Effie noticed Mitchell, covered in garbage and looking utterly pathetic.

    She couldn''t help it-she burst outughing.

    "Grandma, let''s get you inside and wash up. That trash... it''s filthy." Herst remark was pointed, her meaning clear.

    "Alright."

    Mitchell tried to follow them inside, but before he could take a step, someone moved faster and blocked his path with an outstretched arm.

    Mitchell looked up along the broad arm to see Lyman standing there. Frowning, he scowled, "Move."

    Lyman''s voice was low and cold. "If youe after Effie again, you''ll have only yourself to me for what happens next."

    Mitchell stopped in his tracks, hesitating.

    But then his eyes narrowed, and an ugly little smirk crept onto his face as he looked at Lyman. "Lyman, who would''ve thought? The great heir to the Etheridge family, settling for my leftovers. So, how does it feel? Is it easier for you since I''ve already broken her in?"

    He didn''t finish the sentence before Lyman''s fist crashed into his jaw.

    Mitchell''s head snapped to the side from the force of the blow, a metallic tang flooding his mouth as he realized with a curse-Lyman had split his lip.

 Chapter 301

    "Get out!" Lyman Etheridge barked.

    Mitchell Lloyd looked like he wanted to say something else, but when he saw the murderous glint in Lyman''s eyes, his expression faltered. He hesitated for a

    moment, then stalked off, sulking.

    "Honey,e inside. Dinner''s ready," Effie Bagnold called to Lyman.

    "Just a minute," he replied, not moving.

    Effie hurried after him, concern etched on her face. "What''s wrong?"

    Seeing her peeking around the door, worry written all over her, Lyman couldn''t help but smile. The edge softened from his features.

    He reached out, intending to pinch her cheek, but then paused. The memory of touching Mitchell was still fresh. His hand felt tainted.

    He pulled back. "I forgot to buy soy sauce."

    "Oh, right!" Effieughed, suddenly remembering.

    "There''s a little store downstairs, but Grandma doesn''t get along with the woman who runs it," she exined carefully. "So if you go out the building''s main gate and turn left, walk about a hundred yards, you''ll see Grandma Shera''s Grocery. That''s Grandma''s friend¡ªher shop''s where we usually go."

    Lyman nodded. "Got it."

    He listened to every word before heading down. He left the building and really did walk to Grandma Shera''s Grocery, just as Effie had described, to pick up the soy

    sauce.

    Standing on the balcony, Effie watched Lyman''s figure disappear down the street. Her thoughts drifted back to thest time she''d brought Mitchell over to visit her grandmother.

    They''d run out of salt that day, and she''d tried to exin the whole "don''t buy from the downstairs shop" situation. But before she could even finish, Mitchell had cut her off, exasperated. ¡°It''s just a bag of salt," he''dined. "Why make it soplicated?"

    He''d rolled his eyes and muttered about old women holding grudges over nothing. "Are they really still arguing over something so petty?" he''d scoffed.

    In a way, he wasn''t wrong. There was no deep feud between Grandma and the downstairs neighbor, just a preference for buying from Grandma Shera. Once, when Shera''s family was out for a wedding and the shop was closed, Grandma had tried to buy from the downstairs store. The woman there had made a snidement: "If you''re not a regr, don''t expect us to serve you next time."

    Grandma left fuming. That evening, she''d rather sweeten the soup than buy salt from them.

    After that, the two grandmothers barely exchanged greetings. It was all trivial, silly olddy drama, but what else did Grandma have left to care about? At her age, she clung to these tiny grievances.

    If Mitchell couldn''t even respect something like this, how could she expect him to respect anything else?

    In the end, Effie had gone to buy the salt herself, while Mitchell lounged on the couch, ying video games. When she returned, he made a snidement about how much effort she''d wasted for a bag of salt, saying it would''ve been faster to order takeout.

    Lost in thought, Effie was startled from her reverie by someone waving below. She looked down and saw Lyman, already on his way back with the soy sauce, smiling up at her, hand raised in greeting.

    Thest rays of sunlight brushed his face, making him look like a young hero returning home in triumph. In that moment, Effie''s heart skipped. She couldn''t help but wave back, warmth blooming in her chest. The two of them grinned and waved with all the enthusiasm of long-lost lovers reunited.

    Only when Lyman started up the stairs did Effie finally turn away.

    She spun around¡ªand saw her grandmother, eyes glistening with unshed tears.

    Noticing Effie''s gaze, Grandma turned away, dabbing at her eyes and pretending nothing was wrong.

    Once, she and Grandpa had been like that too...

    "Grandma?"

    Effie hurried over, gently supporting her grandmother''s shoulders. "Are you alright?" she asked softly.

    Grandma shook her head, her voice trembling as she replied, "I''m fine, darling. I just... I was thinking about your grandpa."

 Chapter 302

    Effie felt a sharp ache in her heart.

    She, too, thought of that gentle, refined man from her memories¡ªher grandfather.

    He had adored her grandmother more than anything in the world. Even when money was tight, he did everything he could to give her the best life possible.

    But after a lifetime spent shaping young minds, her grandfather was taken from them too soon, swept away by lung cancer. He died in the ICU, never even getting the chance to say goodbye to her grandmother.

    That became her grandmother''s lifelong regret.

    Taking a deep breath, her grandmother spoke softly to Effie. "It''s okay to lose your way sometimes, sweetheart. Who hasn''t made mistakes when they were young? What matters is knowing when to stop and finding the right path again.¡±

    Effie knew what her grandmother was getting at. She nodded. "I understand."

    Her grandmother squeezed her hand. "Don''t keep repeating the same mistakes. There''s no sense in going back to something that wasn''t right in the first ce." Effie nodded solemnly. "I know."

    After a pause, she added, "I love Lyman. I know we haven''t known each other very long, but it feels like I''ve known him forever."

    Lyman had just been about to open the door when he overheard her confession. He froze for a second, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.

    A momentter, Lyman came in, his arms loaded down with bags.

    "I thought you''d just gone out to pick up some sauce," Effie teased, grinning at the sight of him. "How did you end up with all that?"¡±

    Lyman gave a helpless smile. "Mrs. Shera from next door recognized me as your grandmother''s grandson-inw and handed me a bag of loquats. Then, once everyone else found out who I was, they kept giving me things. I tried to say no, but I guess they thought I was too charming to turn away. I couldn''t refuse."

    Effie burst outughing. "Shameless."

    Even her grandmother chuckled at that.

    Seeing their spirits lift, Lyman grinned too.

    If Vinson Elliott and Randell Hoffman were there, they''d probably be cracking up

    at the lengths Lyman went to just to keep his wife happy-even if it meant setting his pride aside.

    After dinner at her grandmother''s house, her grandmother insisted that Effie and Lyman head home.

    Lyman insisted on helping tidy up, gathering the tes and heading to the kitchen. Spotting some apples, he peeled one and carved it into a little rabbit, then brought it out on a te for Effie and her grandmother.

    Her grandmother was a little taken aback¨DLyman really did dote on Effie as if she were still a child.

    "He''s a good one, Effie. Look at how thoughtful he is, even making these adorable apple bunnies." Her grandmother''s voice was full of relief.

    Effie grinned. "He really is wonderful. Why don''t youe live with us, Grandma?"

    Ever since her legs had healed, her grandmother refused to let anyone look after her at home and had let the caretaker go.

    Effie had been racking her brain for ways to persuade her to move in with them.

    But her grandmother shook her head.

    "I''m used to living here. I wouldn''t befortable anywhere else," she said, ncing at the spot where her grandfather''s photo sat. "I''ll stay. You young folks have your own ways-I''m set in mine."

    Effie knew there was no changing her mind. Sighing, she got up to give her grandmother a gentle shoulder massage.

    "Oh! That tickles!" her grandmother said,ughing.

    "Really?" Effie protested, a little deted. She''d thought she was doing a decent job-how could it tickle so much?

    Just then, Lyman came out, drying his hands.

    "Let me try," he offered.

    Her grandmother waved him off. "No, no, it''s gettingte, I should head to bed. You two go on home."

    It was one thing to let him wash the dishes, but letting the CEO of a major corporation give her a massage? She wouldn''t dream of it.

 Chapter 303

    Lyman spoke up first, trying to lighten the mood. "I think my hands were just a little damp earlier, that''s probably why Grandma didn''t want a massage. But I''ve dried them off now. Can I give it another try?"

    Grandma was about to refuse, but then she saw Lyman''s eager face he looked so hopeful, as if he just wanted to do something right for her.

    How could she say no to that kind of earnestness?

    Effie chimed in, ¡°Grandma, he''s really good at it. Every time he helps me, I''m so rxed I almost fall asleep!"

    "Well..."

    "Let me try, Grandma?" Lyman offered, his voice gentle.

    "Oh, alright then."

    At first, Grandma seemed a bit ufortable, but it didn''t take long before she started to enjoy it.

    You really had to admit-smart people seemed to seed at everything they did.

    "Looks like Grandma''s fallen asleep," Effie whispered, grinning as she watched Grandma''s head nodding with drowsiness.

    Lyman paused and checked. Sure enough, she was fast asleep.

    "I''ll carry her to bed," he said softly. "The couch can''t befortable."

    "Okay."

    Lyman carefully lifted Grandma and carried her to her bedroom.

    She stirred awake for a moment as he picked her up, and smiled dreamily at him. "Old man..."

    "Grandma, it''s me. Lyman."

    "Mmm. My grandson-inw," she murmured, drifting off again.

    Effie stood by the door, watching as Lyman gently tucked the nket around

    Grandma and quietly closed the door behind him. Her eyes stung, and she had to blink back tears.

    "Let''s go," Lyman whispered.

    Effie nodded, and without thinking, reached for his hand. They slipped out together.

    "We''ll take a walk, thene back," Lyman suggested.

    She nced at him, a touch of suspicion in her gaze. "Yeah?"

    Lyman grinned. "You want Grandma toe live with us, don''t you?"

    Effie nodded. Of course she did. She''d dreamed about it.

    But could it really happen? Grandma was stubborn-she''d never agree.

    Lyman squeezed her hand. "She''s just worried about being a burden, and she''s set in her ways. But habits can change. She already let me give her a massage tonight, didn''t she? Tomorrow, when she wakes up and finds out we stayed here, she''ll be surprised, but she''ll get used to it after a few days. Maybe she''ll grow to like having me look after her-and not want to let me go."

    Effie felt a surge of warmth in her chest. Lyman always went further than she ever expected.

    "Alright," she said softly.

    "But what about clothes and stuff...?"

    "No worries. I already asked Luther to drop everything off."

    Effie hesitated. "It''s sote-isn''t that a bit much to ask?"

    Lyman nced at her, amused. "That''s his job. Besides, he gets overtime pay. With a six-figure sry, he ought to earn it, don''t you think?"

    Effie swallowed. Six figures!

    "Say, are you looking for more assistants?" she teased, brightening. "Suddenly, I feel like I could handle it!"

    Lyman reached up and yfully tapped her nose. "Sure. If you ever get tired of being a designer and want to be my secretary instead, just let me know."

    "Alright. I''ll let you know if I ever get bored," she joked.

    Hand in hand, Effie and Lyman walked out of the apartmentplex, not noticing the pair of eyes burning holes in their backs from the shadows.

    "No way... Lyman''s just putting on an act. There''s no way he really means all that!

    He''s faking it¡ªevery word is a lie. Once he''s bored, he''ll just move on to someone else. There''s no such thing as a faithful man in this world," Mitchell muttered bitterly to himself.

 Chapter 304

    After their walk, Effie and Lyman returned to her grandmother''s house. Each busied themselves with a few things, then started getting ready for bed.

    Suddenly, Lyman''s phone began to vibrate again and again.

    Effie nced over at him. "Aren''t you going to check it? Sounds like people are really trying to reach you."

    Lyman waved it off. "Nah, it''s probably just that crowd, bored and looking for someone to go out drinking with them."

    He grinned, wrapped his arms around Effie, and switched off his phone. "Honestly, what could be better than lying in bed with my wife? A night out doesn''t evene close."

    Effie snuggled into his embrace, smiling to herself. She thought, Well, they''re still in that honeymoon phase, so it made sense that Lyman wanted to be glued to her all the time¡ªjust like Mitchell had, back in the beginning. But once the novelty wore off... who knew what would happen?

    Meanwhile, their group chat was as lively as ever.

    Vinson Elliott: Where''s Lyman? I''ve tagged him a dozen times and he hasn''t replied once.

    Randell: Vinson, you idiot, if Lyman isn''t answering, it means he''s with his wife and can''t be bothered with you. Keep pestering him and he''ll block you, just wait.

    Vinson Elliott: Oh, shut up! I''ve known Lyman for decades. He''s not going to block me over something like this.

    Fenton: If you''re looking for Lyman, you might as well look for me. I''m always free. Where are you? I''ll be there in five.

    Fenton: Look, Lyman''s still newly married, so of course he''s going to be attached to his wife. Wait until the honeymoon phase is over, see if he doesn''te running.

    Vinson Elliott: Fenton, weren''t you the same with Annabel? You used to follow her everywhere, practically glued to her. What happened with that, anyway? Let me think...

    Fenton: Vinson, you really are an idiot.

    Vinson Elliott: Hey! No name calling!

    Fenton: Are you even human?

    The next morning, Effie''s grandmother woke up with the strange sense that something was different.

    As she shuffled through the house, she suddenly noticed that Effie''s old bedroom door was closed-a detail she didn''t remember from the night before.

    She paused, a little rmed. Oh dear, could someone have broken in?

    She was just about to open the door when she spotted a note, weighed down

    Pena bowl on the kitchen

    table The handwriting was bold and elegant:

    Grandma, Effie and I went for a walkst night and lost track of time. We were too

    tired to go home, so we stayed here. Sorry for the trouble.

    She smiled, recognizing Lyman''s neat handwriting. Just like the man himself¡ª polite and considerate.

    He must have known that, at her age, she''d be up early, so he left the note to spare her any worry.

    By the time Lyman and Effie got up, Grandma had already prepared breakfast, Since Lyman was staying,

    she made it extra hearty-So she''d

    nourishing porridge, fresh rolls she''d

    picked up from the bakery downstairs, and a little corn and

    sweet potato for good measure.

    "Good morning, Grandma," Lyman greeted her as soon as he came out.

    She beamed at him. "Good morning, Lyman. How did you sleep? Was everythingfortable?"

    She managed to sound perfectly calm, but inside, her heart was beating a little faster.

    Lyman answered easily, "I slept really well. Everything was perfect."

    Grandma breathed a quiet sigh of relief. "I''m d. Come have some breakfast." "Thank you, Grandma," he said.

    Just then, Effie emerged from her room, dressed and ready for the day. Grandma hurried over to pull her aside.

 Chapter 305

    "Effie, could youe here for a moment?"

    Her grandmother pulled her out onto the balcony before lowering her voice. "What''s going on? Why were you two sleeping herest night?"

    Effie replied, "Grandma, Lyman says he really enjoys living with you. If you don''t want to move into our ce, then we''ll just stay at yours. As long as we get to see you, that''s what matters."

    Her grandmother fell silent for a moment, a wry smile tugging at her lips.

    Kids these days and their ideas.

    "I''m fine living on my own, really," she said.

    Effie took her grandmother''s hand gently. ¡°Grandma, if you''d said that to me ten years ago, I wouldn''t have worried. But now you''re getting older-you shouldn''t be living alone anymore. You need someone to look after you."

    "If I just leave you here by yourself, people will say I''m a terrible granddaughter."

    But her grandmother waved off the concern, unfazed. "Who cares what people say? All that matters is that I know you care about me. Let them talk-it''s their mouths, not mine."

    "I know, I shouldn''t care what others think," Effie said softly. "But I hate that every time something happens to you, I''m not there. I only find out because someone else calls me. Grandma, please let Lyman and me take care of you. If you don''t want to move, we''ll juste live with you."

    Her grandmother hesitated, looking at Effie with uncertainty. She didn''t agree, but she didn''t say no either.

    Effie let out a quiet sigh of relief. No outright refusal that was a good sign. "Grandma, Effie, breakfast is ready!" Lyman called from inside.

    After breakfast, Lyman and Effie got ready for work.

    As they stepped outside, Effie couldn''t shake the feeling that someone was watching her from the shadows. But when she turned around to look, there was no one there.

    Was it just her imagination?

    Lyman noticed her unease. "Is something wrong?"

    She shook her head, pushing away the thought. "It''s nothing. Let''s go."

    On the way, Effie happily recounted her grandmother''s reaction to Lyman.

    "You really know how to handle things," she said with a bright smile.

    Lyman nced at her in profile¡ªher happiness seemed to light up her whole face.

    He could tell how genuinely happy she was, so he squeezed her hand and quietly enjoyed herughter.

    As they neared the office, Effie got out of the car a few blocks away.

    Across the street, Isabel and Carole watched the whole scene unfold.

    Isabel''s fists clenched so tightly her nails dug into her palms.

    That shameless woman who is she trying to fool with this act?

    Carole leaned over, trying to soothe her. "Isabel, didn''t you notice something?"

    Still seething, Isabel shot her a suspicious look. "Notice what?"

    Carole exined, "Why did Effie get out of the car so far from the office? It''s obvious-she doesn''t want to be seen. That just proves Mr. Etheridge doesn''t take her seriously. He doesn''t even want people to know who she is."

    Isabel paused, considering it, and then a sly smile crept across her lips.

    She nced at Carole, feeling

    Sy grateful. Without

    reminder, she never

    ¨¨ thought of that. Cont

    "Exactly. So don''t be upset. Who

    knows, maybe Mr. Etheridge will get bored with Effie soon enough and

    when t

    happens, he''ll just toss

    her aside."

    Isabel nodded, her mood lifting instantly.

    Just like that, the clouds parted.

    "Come on, let''s go find Annabel."

    Meanwhile, Lyman was in his office, deep in discussion with Fenton, when a

    knock sounded at the door.

    "Come in," Lyman called.

    Annabel entered, with Isabel and Carole following close behind.

 Chapter 306

    "Lyman, I need an iced Americano. Stat." Annabel rubbed her temples, her voice edged with exhaustion.

    Out of nowhere, she felt the unmistakable burn of someone''s gaze. She looked up -and locked eyes with Fenton, whose stare was as dark and unreadable as ever.

    Annabel froze, muttering under her breath, "Shit."

    "This isn''t a coffee shop, you know." Fenton''s voice was dry.

    Annabel snorted and lifted her chin, meeting his gaze head-on. "And what''s it to you? I''m here to grab a coffee with my brother. Problem?"

    "Wouldn''t dare," Fenton shot back, jaw clenched. "After all, you''re the princess around here.¡± His eyes bored into Annabel, as if he might devour her whole if she said one wrong word.

    Annabel refused to back down. She red right back at him. "That''s right. I''m definitely better off than you, wage ve."

    She spun on her heel. "What a buzzkill."

    Fenton called after her, "Funny, guilty people always seem to be in a hurry."

    Annabel stopped dead, whipping around so fast her re could have cut ss. "If anyone here has a guilty conscience, it''s you."

    Fenton''s eyes narrowed. "Say that again?"

    "I''d love to." Annabel grabbed the ashtray from the coffee table, brandishing it.

    Isabel jumped in, desperate to y peacemaker. "Annabel, don''t. Don''t let your temper get the best of you."

    "Quiet." Lyman''s voice was sharp as he shot Isabel a look. Then he turned to Fenton. "You too. Enough."

    Fenton shrugged. "Only because you asked."

    Annabel tossed her hair. "Yeah, same here."

    She sighed. "This ce is dead. I''m leaving."

    "Hold on," Lyman called after her. "Why are you even here today?"

    Annabel stopped again, cursing Fenton for making her almost forget her real reason foring. "I

    brought Isabel to shoot an ad foet

    your jewelry line. Family business stays in the family, remember? We talked about this.¡±

    Lyman nodded, indifferent. Isabel''s look was on-brand and her poprity was rising. As the new face for The Etheridge Group, she was a decent enough choice.

    She hadn''t been their first pick, but since Isabel was signed to Annabel''spany, the logic was simple: keep the benefits close.

    But the details of the shoot weren''t Lyman''s responsibility. He just made the call- no one told him they wereing today.

    "Where''s Effie?" Annabel pressed.

    "At work. Her department." Lyman didn''t even look up.

    "I miss her. I''ll go find her," Annabel said quickly, eager for an excuse to escape.

    She slipped out the door before anyone could stop her.

    Isabel, on the other hand, was in no rush to leave. This was her chance to spend time with Lyman, and she wasn''t about to waste it.

    "Lyman, would you mind if I stay

    here for a bit? I barely sleptst night

    and I''ve been running from one

    shoot to another. I''m

    exhausted-just need to rest for a

    white." Her eyes were hopeful.

    "Fine. You can use the couch." It was as much hospitality as he could muster.

    Isabel knew better than to ask for more. Lyman''s reputation for being a neat freak was practically legendary; there was no way he''d let her near his private lounge.

    She curled up on the sofa and closed her eyes.

    Lyman and Fenton went right back to their meeting, paying her no attention.

    Isabel couldn''t help but smile to herself. Soon, she''d find an excuse to get Lyman alone-maybe y up how nervous she was about the shoot and ask him toe along.

    With her n set, Isabel let herself rx, sinking deeper into the cushions until, before she knew it, she''d drifted off.

    Meanwhile, Effie was busy at her desk when someone popped their head in to say she had a visitor. Puzzled, she hurried out to see who it was.

 Chapter 307

    "Effie, help me."

    Annabel spotted Effie and seized on her as if she were a lifeline, reaching out as she hurried over.

    Effie jumped, startled. If she hadn''t recognized Annabel''s voice, she might have thought she''d bumped into a zombie in broad daylight.

    "Annabel, are you okay?" Effie asked, her face etched with concern.

    "I''m fine, just a little groggy," Annabel replied, rubbing her eyes. "Could you run to the break room in your department and make me a cup of coffee? That''ll fix everything."

    Effie nced Annabel up and down. Did she just look tired? Somehow, it didn''t seem that simple.

    Just then, Luther hurried over, a small box of painkillers in his hand.

    "Ms. Annabel, Mr. Etheridge asked me to bring these to you. He said you probably didn''t get much sleep and have a headache," Luther said, holding out the box.

    Annabel''s head was pounding. She took the meds gratefully and muttered, "At least he has a heart."

    She turned to Effie. "Effie, please, could you fetch me some coffee? I need something to wash these down."

    Effie''s lips twitched. Coffee with painkillers? That didn''t sound right.

    Just as she was about to protest, she caught a glimpse of movement out of the corner of her eye-a shadow darted past.

    Effie froze, suspicion flickering in her gaze. Someone was hiding in the corner, but it didn''t look like Lyman.

    Besides, if it were Lyman, he''d just walk right out. He wasn''t the type to skulk around.

    Annabel called out again, "Effie, please, I''m begging you!"

    Flustered, Effie slipped into the break room and returned with a ss of water.

    Annabel stared at it, exasperated. "Seriously? Water?"

    Effie shrugged. "Coffee isn''t great for taking pills. Drink this first-once you''re feeling better, I''ll get you that coffee."

    "All right, fine," Annabel relented.

    She swallowed the pills with the water, and after a few minutes, some color returned to her face.

    .n¨§t

    "Last night was out negotiating a deal," she exined. "Had a few drinks with the clients, and woke i

    feeling like my head was splitting open. I finally feel human again."

    "Just a few drinks, huh?" Effie raised an eyebrow.

    up

    Annabel''s smile froze. She gave a sheepishugh. "Well... it''s not like wanted to. You know how these meetings go-nobody takes you seriously unless you y along."

    Effie shook her head. "You can''t keep doing this to yourself. Next time, just drink less. Or bring Lyman with you-no one would dare push you around if he was there."

    Annabelughed. "Oh,e on. You wouldn''t rely on him yourself, but you expect me to?"

    Effie blushed, embarrassed that Annabel had seen right through her.

    "By the way, what brings you here? Is there someone in Lyman''s office you''re trying to avoid?"

    Annabel thought, Effie really is sharp-no wonder Lyman likes her.

    "There''s a mad dog in there. Didn''t want to risk getting bitten," Annabel replied dryly.

    Effie burst outughing. "Who is it this time-who''s so bad you have to call them a mad dog?"

    "Anyway," Annabel continued, changing the subject, "I''m bringing a team over here today for the jewelry shoot. Isabel''s the face of the campaign. You know her, right?"

    Effie nodded. Of course she knew.

    She wasn''t even supposed to be in charge of this project, but Irving Butler remembered the tension between her and Isabel, so he''d

    deliberately assigned Bably

    hoping Isabel would give her a hard time.  s?novel

    But it was all just part of the job. Effie wasn''t about toin.

    Annabel and Effie headed for the studio together.

    But when they arrived, Isabel was nowhere to be seen.

    "Where''s the leadingdy?" a crew member called out. "She''ste!"

    A flicker of worry crossed Annabel''s eyes. She seemed to realize something.

 Chapter 308

    She realized, as she left Lyman''s office just now, she''d forgotten to tell Isabel toe out with her.

    Wait-could Isabel still be in Lyman''s office?

    If it were anyone else, Annabel would have just called directly, but with Effie beside her, she hesitated. After all, she hadn''t known Effie that long, and couldn''t be sure how she''d react.

    "I''ll call her manager," Annabel said.

    "Alright," Effie replied.

    As Annabel stepped aside to make the call, she didn''t notice Lyman and Fenton approaching from down the hall.

    Effie spotted them first and instinctively wanted to wave at Lyman, but remembered she was at work and managed to restrain herself.

    Fenton nudged Lyman with his elbow. "Hey, man, I heard your wife''s too embarrassed to go public with you. Honestly, I thoughte on, you''re Lyman! How could that be?"

    "But now..." Fenton trailed off, a sly grin on his face.

    Lyman shot him a re. "Shut up."

    "My wife''s a bit reserved at work, that''s all. At home, she''s caring and sweet-a perfect wife. Unlike some people who go home to an empty apartment and their own echo forpany."

    Fenton stared at him, deeply wounded. "Are you even human? That''s just mean." Lyman shrugged. "Well, I''m not a dog, at least."

    He hadn''t read the whole chat thread that day, just thest few lines-enough to know Fenton had called Vinson Elliott a dog.

    Fenton scoffed. "So you''ve got it all figured out now, huh? Don''t need me anymore? Maybe I should just leave."

    Lyman raised an eyebrow. "You can threaten all you want, but you won''t go."

    "You that sure?" Fenton gritted his teeth, clearly itching to wring Lyman''s neck. "Absolutely."

    Lyman left the banter behind and walked over to Effie, greeting her with practiced ease. "Morning, Ms. Bagnold. How''s the preping along?"

    Effie blinked, momentarily thrown by his cool, professional tone. Was this really her passionate husband? She

    wasn''t sure how to ris

    at first.

    Snapping out of it, Effie answered, "Mr. Etheridge, we can''t find the spokesperson."

    Lyman paused, suddenly realizing he and Fenton hadpletely forgotten about Isabel.

    "Uh¡ª¡±

    Annabel rejoined them then. "I just called her manager¡ªthey''ll be here any minute."

    She shot Lyman a warning look, the kind that said, Don''t say anything stupid and upset Effie.

    But Lyman turned to Effie and exined, "Isabel and Annabel came to my office earlier, but I was

    meeting with Fenton. Isabel was"

    tired and fell asleep on the couch. After the meeting, I left to find you and, well... forgot she was there."

    "Oh," Effie said, her expression unreadable. She didn''t seem angry at all.

    Annabel watched her, confused. Why wasn''t Effie upset hearing her husband had been alone with another woman?

    Almost as if she''d read Annabel''s mind, Effie said, "I trust Lyman. He''s never given me a reason to doubt him."

    Annabel gave a sheepish smile. Maybe if she had that kind of confidence, she wouldn''t be so quick to jump to conclusions.

    Just then, Fenton sauntered over to join them.

    Effie gave a meaningful little "Oh." So Annabel''s "dog" from earlier must be Fenton. She found herself genuinely curious-what exactly was going on between those two?

    "Isabel, time to get up." Carole''s voice cut through the quiet.

    Isabel startled awake. "Huh? Where is everyone?"

 Chapter 309

    Carole turned to Isabel. "Mr. Etheridge and the others have all left. I guess they had other things to take care of."

    Isabel frowned, rubbing her eyes. "That''s odd. How did I actually fall asleep?"

    She nced down at herself, suddenly noticing the jacket draped over her. "Wait -who covered me up?"

    A hopeful smile broke across her face. "Was it Lyman? Did he tuck me in?"

    Carole hesitated, not wanting to ruin Isabel''s mood, but she had to speak up. "Actually, that was me. You just looked so cold, I thought I''d cover you up."

    Isabel''s face twisted into a scowl. "So I was freezing and Lyman didn''t even notice?"

    Carole gave an awkwardugh. "Honestly, I don''t think anyone was paying attention over here."

    Isabel felt a wave of irritation. She was a beautiful woman, stretched out on the sofa like some living fairytale, and they hadn''t even spared her a nce? Infuriating.

    She huffed, talking herself down. "Whatever. They''re probably just busy. That''s all. It''s not that I''m not attractive enough for them to notice."

    Carole, ncing nervously at her watch, urged, "Isabel, we should really head downstairs. Everyone''s ready-we''re all waiting on you."

    Isabel paused, then shrugged. "It''s fine. This is Lyman''spany. I show up a bitte, and what''s he going to do, fire me?"

    As if to say, she refused to believe Lyman would ever hold something like this against her.

    Carole hesitated, clearly wanting to say more. "But, you know, it was the boss who called specifically to check where you are. If you don''t hurry, I''m afraid¡ª¡±

    Carole''s phone buzzed loudly, cutting her off. She quickly answered, shooting Isabel a look to keep quiet.

    Annabel''s voice came through the line. "Is she up yet? Everyone''s waiting for her, tell her not to keep us too long."

    Annabel felt a bit awkward. She''d already treated the crew to milkshakes, and the event coordinator was going around asking everyone what vor they wanted.

    "Mr. Fenton, what can I get for you?" she asked.

    Fenton barely nced at her. "Nothing for me. I don''t drink that stuff. Too unhealthy."

    Annabel snorted, unimpressed.

    "With all that healthy living, I s don''t see you looking any

    the rest of us." Content bo

    Her tone was sharp and unmistakable.

    than

    Fenton shot back, "And what makes you think I''m not healthy?"

    He was perfectly fine, thank you very much.

    Annabel replied, "You know yourself better than anyone¡ªcan''t evenst ten minutes."

    A sudden snicker broke out. Effie tried desperately to hold it in,

    pressing her hand to her mouth, but a burst ofughter slipped through anyway.

    SU?

    Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. Did people really say things like this in public?

    Lyman caught her eye and nodded her over. "Ms. Bagnold, could I have a word?"

    Effie quicklyposed herself and hurried to his side. "Yes, Mr. Etheridge? What can I do for you?"

    "I don''t want a milkshake. Could you get me a coffee? ck, no milk, no ice," Lyman said.

    Effie nodded. "Sure, but I can''t guarantee it''ll be up to your standards."

    Lyman waved it off. "That''s fine. I''m not picky."

    "I''ll be right back," Effie promised.

    Soon enough, Effie returned, coffee in hand, just as Isabel finally made her way downstairs. She turned to Lyman with a yful pout. "Lyman, why didn''t you wake me up before you left?"

 Chapter 310

    Why didn''t he call her? Because as soon as Lyman heard Effie would be in

    charge of this shoot, he rushed downstairs, his mind entirely on seeing her¡ªhe didn''t have a second thought for Isabel.

    As for a certain someone, well, he clearly had his own agenda too, though at the moment, it looked like he was only making trouble for himself.

    "I forgot," Lyman said.

    Just those two simple words, but they left Isabel feeling slighted, as if she didn''t matter at all.

    "Lyman, when the shoot is over, do you think you could-"

    "Mr. Etheridge, your coffee."

    Effie appeared at Lyman''s side, thrusting his coffee toward him a little too forcefully.

    The cup was filled to the brim, and coffee sloshed out, nearly sttering all over Isabel.

    Isabel red. "Effie! How could you be so-" She bit back thest word-careless -in front of Lyman, swallowing it with difficulty.

    She clenched her jaw. "You need to be more careful. The coffee''s hot-what if you''d spilled it on Lyman?"

    She deliberately addressed him as "Lyman" right in front of Effie, just to make a point: she and Lyman were close. Effie was the outsider here.

    Lyman took a sip of the coffee Effie had made. "This is great, Effie."

    "So long as you like it, Mr. Etheridge," Effie replied.

    Fenton piped up, "Is it really that good? Sweet or bitter?"

    "Sweet," Lyman answered.

    How could coffee made by his darling wife taste anything but sweet?

    Fenton''s mouth twitched. Seriously? Lyman must be head-over-heels-coffee, sweet? Did Effie dump a whole bag of sugar in there?

    "Isabel,e over here and get your makeup done. You''re already holding up the shoot," Annabel called out.

    Annoyed, Isabel obeyed, heading off to the makeup chair.

    Annabel watched her, hesitating as if she wanted to say more.

    If it weren''t for Lyman and Effie asking her to keep their rtionship quiet, Annabel would have told Isabel off ages ago. Those two were happily married-what right did she have to stir the pot? ''

    "Isabel, you should watch your words from now on," Annabel said quietly.

    Isabel froze, her face crumpling as she looked at Annabel. Her voice trembled. "Annabel, did I do something wrong? If I ever upset you, just tell me. I''ll fix it, I promise."

    Annabel frowned. Did Isabel really not get it?

    When Annabel didn''t answer, Isabel felt even more triumphant inside.

    Nearly an hourter, Isabel''s hair and makeup were finally done.

    Effie came over, inspecting Isabel''s look and holding up different pieces of jewelry to her.

    She frowned and turned to the makeup artist. "Why is the makeup still so heavy? Didn''t I say the main focus today is The Etheridge

    Group''s jewelry? Everything het

    is

    secondary-the spokesperson''s makeup should be subtle so the pieces stand out."

    "That''s not my fault, it''s¡ª" The makeup artist nced at Isabel.

    Isabel didn''t say a word, but her face was thunderous.

    She snapped, "Effie, what''s that supposed to mean? I''ve been in this industry for years and I''ve never heard anyone say a person should take a back seat to jewelry. The jewelry is here toplement us, not the other way around."

    Effie said calmly, "That may be true, but¡ª"

 Chapter 311

    Isabel cut Effie off, her tone sharp. "Remind me, who''s the expert here¡ªyou or me? I''ve shot countless product campaigns, and this is the first time I''ve heard such nonsense."

    Effie''s voice was calm and steady as she replied, "Miss Isabel, I''m just pointing out that today''s jewelry collection is all about understated elegance. With your heavy makeup, it shes with the pieces. The results won''t look right."

    "That''s not for you to decide. I think it looks fine as it is." Isabel''s voice was icy.

    Annabel had just stepped away to take a call. When she returned, she found Isabel and Effie locked in a standoff, tension crackling in the air.

    "What''s going on?" she asked.

    Before Effie could answer, Isabel jumped in, eager to get her side across first.

    ¡°Annabel, I''m the professional here, but Effie insists on bossing everyone around..." She quickly repeated what Effie had said just moments before.

    She expected Annabel to back her up, but instead, Annabel fixed Isabel with a cold stare for a few seconds before snapping, "Change your makeup. Who told you to take matters into your own hands?"

    The smile froze on Isabel''s face. She stared at Annabel in disbelief, as if she couldn''t trust her own ears.

    "Annabel, you''re telling me to change my makeup?" Isabel looked at her, utterly speechless.

    Annabel''s tone was unyielding. "Isabel, where''s your professionalism? Did you leave it at home today, or are you doing this on purpose? You know exactly what we''re shooting. Yet here you are, wearing makeup fit for a nightclub. Who are you trying to impress? If the campaign falls t, are you going to take responsibility? We''ve already wasted enough time. Now you want to make things even harder?" Her criticism was firm and clear. Isabel bit her lip, her eyes turning red as tears threatened to spill over, but she didn''t dare let them fall.

    "Well? What are you waiting for? Get moving," Annabel ordered.

    Isabel looked like she wanted to explode, but with Annabel, she didn''t dare. She clenched her jaw and swallowed her anger.

    Finally, after the makeup change was done, Annabel nodded in approval. "That''s much better."

    She paused, then turned to Effie. "Effie, what do you think?"

    Effie nodded. "It''ll do."

    Truth be told, Isabel''s vibe still didn''t quite match The Etheridge Group''s jewelry, but it was workable.

    The shoot began, but Isabel''s focus was elsewhere. Out of the corner of her eyez she saw Lyman and Effie. Lyman, thinking no one was watching, sneakily reached behind his back and took Effie''s hand.

    Effie stiffened for a moment, but soon gave in. The two of them held hands beneath the table, like high school sweethearts trying not to get caught.

    Isabel ground her teeth in frustration, wishing she could march over and break them up.

    Just then, the photographer finally lost his patience. "Miss Isabel, could you please take this seriously?" he snapped.

    Snapped back to attention, Isabel scowled. "Your poses are soplicated. Is it a crime to practice a few times?"

    ¡°That''s not the problem. The problem is you''re not even listening to my instructions. How do you expect to get it right?"

    The photographer had his own

    studio and had worked with some of the biggest names in the industry. Celebrities went out of their way to be polite to him, always calling him ''sir'' or ''maestro.'' No one eve dared to talk back to him-until Isabel.

    And there was a reason for his reputation. He had a knack for capturing a model''s best angles, creating just the right mood and making every shot shine.

 Chapter 312

    Most of the time, even people who were just average-looking ended up looking stunning in his photos.

    These days, who doesn''t want to look good on camera? That''s why everyone treated a talented photographer like him with such respect.

    Isabel, on the other hand, didn''t quite have what it took.

    Her looks barely registered in a world overflowing with beautiful faces and chiseled jawlines.

    The only thing that set her apart was her artistic aura, but her style today was a little too bold. Even after touching up her makeup, it was impossible to hide the strong lines, so the final result was never quite what anyone wanted.

    Truth be told, she could have just about gotten away with it.

    But Isabel refused to cooperate during the shoot, and that was enough to drive anyone up the wall.

    "If this is your attitude, I don''t see any reason to keep shooting," the photographer said coldly.

    Isabel''s eyes reddened, her voice quivering. "What did I do wrong? I''m just tired today. I''ll be fine once I get into the right mood."

    "And how long will that take?" the photographer asked, impatience creeping into his tone.

    Inside, Isabel seethed, ming everything on Effie. She forced herself to say, "Just give me a minute."

    When the photographer saw Isabel was finally making an effort to pull herself together, he decided to let it go.

    Still, the shots that followed were underwhelming. Notpletely unusable, but nowhere near what he''d hoped for.

    He finally snapped. "Stop! Are you telling me your agency only brought one model? There''s no one else?"

    Annabel''s temper red. She pulled Isabel aside and hissed, "What is wrong with you? This opportunity was handed to you on a silver tter and you''re just wasting it! Do you have any idea how hard it is to book this photographer? If it weren''t for The Etheridge Group''s connections, he wouldn''t even be here shooting you."

    "Can''t you just put in a little more effort?"

    Isabel''s eyes filled with tears. "I''m trying my best! He''s just nitpicking. I did every single pose he asked for."

    Annabel shook her head, exasperated. "Honestly, maybe you''re just not cut out for this line of work."

    While Isabel was being chewed out, the photographer grew bored and began to scan the room.

    Suddenly, his gazended on Effie. "She looks interesting," he remarked.

    Just then, Isabel stormed back over, her eyes narrowing dangerously. "She''s not avable," she said, her voice icy.

    The photographer didn''t back down. "And why not?"

    "She''s not a professional," Isabel replied stiffly.

    Instead of backing off, the photographer''spetitive streak was sparked. "That makes me want

    to tryeven more," he said we w

    smirk.

    "Miss Bagnold, isn''t it? Would you like to give it a shot?"

    Effie hesitated. ¡°But I''m not a professional. I doubt I''d do a good job."

    1.n

    She knew perfectly well this wasn''t her field. Forget about nailing professional poses-she wasn''t even sure she could manage a convincingly natural smile.

    When it came tomercials, Effie honestly believed Isabel was the better choice.

    "I think you''ll do just fine," the photographer said encouragingly.

    Isabel was furious-she''d tried to be pleasant, but the photographer hadn''t given her the time of day. Yet here he was, practically begging Effie, who had already turne@him down.

    "Wait a minute," Isabel snapped, "do you really think she''ll be better than me?"

    "Yes," the photographer said simply.

    "Fine! I''m done!" Isabel thought to herself, let''s see how long it takes before hees begging me toe back.

 Chapter 313

    Isabel only meant to scare the photographer a little, but to her surprise, he didn''t hesitate at all. "Sure," he replied.

    She stared at him in disbelief, lips parting to protest, but he''d already shifted his attention to Effie.

    "Miss, this is part of yourpany''s work too, right? Why don''t you give it a try?" the photographer said to her. ¡°Who knows, maybe your boss will give you a raise for it."

    Effie''s mouth twitched. A raise? She could do without that.

    What was meant as an offhandmentnded somewhere else entirely. Lyman, standing nearby, thought to himself, Well, it''s not the worst idea.

    Isabel shot Effie a cold, mocking smile. "If she can pull this off, I''ll get down on my knees and beg her forgiveness in front of everyone."

    Effie had been ready to refuse, but Isabel''s taunt lit apetitive spark in her. She straightened and said, "Alright, since someone''s so eager to kneel before me, I''d feel bad not to take the challenge."

    "You-" Isabel was so furious she could barely breathe. Her voice was ice. "Don''t tter yourself, Effie. You''re nothing."

    Effie shrugged. "Well, at least the photographer thinks I''m worth a shot. Unlike some people..."

    "What exactly are you implying?!" Isabel hissed, ring daggers at Effie, as if she might w her apart at any moment.

    Annabel finally broke in, exasperated. "Enough, both of you. Haven''t we embarrassed ourselves enough already?"

    Isabel bit her tongue. She couldn''t shake the feeling the photographer was ying favorites¡ªmaybe Effie had bribed him or something. But she had no proof.

    Fine, just wait. As soon as Effie made a fool of herself, Isabel would be the first tough.

    "Go change," Annabel told Isabel briskly.

    Annabel shook her head, thinking back to when she''d first tried to set Isabel up with Lyman¡ªshe''d figured Isabel was pretty enough and they''d make a decent couple. Now, though, she could see she''d been way off base.

    "My taste back then was terrible," Annabel muttered to herself.

    Suddenly, a voice sounded behind her, edged with irritation. "And you think your taste now is so much better?"

    She spun around to see Fenton, brow furrowed, ring at her.

    Annabel scoffed. "Seriously, do you have nothing better to do than eavesdrop on me?"

    Fenton pulled out his phone and waved it in front of her. "You might want to see what you''ve done this time. People are saying you''re robbing the cradle."

    Annabel snatched the phone, frowning as she looked at the screen. "This picture..."

    Fenton raised his brows. "Don''t tell me you''re going to say it''s photoshopped?"

    Annabel rolled her eyes. "It''s real, obviously. Why would I need to fake it? What I want to know is, was the photographer blind? Why did Ie out looking so awful? I''m gorgeous!"

    Fenton snorted, looking even more sullen. "Robbing the cradle."

    "You''re ridiculous. If you were a cow, would you choose dry, tough straw, or fresh, tender grass? Men always want someone young, don''t they?"

    Fenton''s frown deepened. He opened his mouth to argue¡ªit''s not like that, not at all-but Annabel cut him off.

    "Seriously, don''t you have anything better to do?"

    "I''M the one with nothing to do?" Fenton shot back, annoyed. "If it weren''t for me, who would be cleaning up your messes? ''Robbing the cradle''-you think that''s apliment?"

    Annabel gritted her teeth. "I don''t need you butting in anymore. I can handle myself."

    "Fine. Next time, I won''t bother. You could at least pick someone halfway decent- looking-aren''t you always iming looks matter to you? Clearly, your standards aren''t that high."

 Chapter 314

    Annabel wanted nothing more than to wring Fenton''s neck. "A real woman doesn''t wrestle with dogs."

    "Dogs? Who are you calling a dog?" Fenton shot back, his voice rising.

    "If the shoe fits, wear it!" Annabel snapped, her jaw clenched.

    Inside the dressing room, Isabel changed her clothes. She caught sight of her earrings in the mirror, and a sly smile curled on her lips¡ªan idea forming in her mind.

    "Isabel, are you really going to do this? If someone finds out, we''ll be in serious trouble," Carole said, worry etched across her face.

    Isabel grinned, all mischief and confidence. "No one''s going to notice, not in a ce like this. By the time they realize, they''ll just assume Effie did it."

    "You should still be careful."

    Isabel rolled her eyes. "What''s gotten into you all? First Annabel refuses to help, now you''re lecturing me?"

    Carole gave a sheepish smile. She knew Isabel was in a foul mood, and sinceforting her wasn''t working, maybe it was better to just let her vent.

    Effie emerged next, dressed simply but strikingly. Her vintage emerald-green pencil dress hugged her curves, paired with long ck gloves and a few pieces of thepany''s jewelry. The effect was stunning-she looked like she''d stepped right out of a glossy fashion magazine.

    Every head in the room turned. People stared, captivated.

    Lyman couldn''t tear his eyes away from her; wherever Effie walked, his gaze followed.

    Suddenly, a round of apuse broke out. The photographer was pping enthusiastically.

    "This is perfect! Exactly the vibe I wanted!" he eximed.

    With every movement, Effie exuded effortless grace and sophistication. The photographer was a whirlwind, snapping photo after photo, showering her with praise as ifpliments cost nothing.

    Meanwhile, Isabel stood off to the side, her face so dark it seemed a storm might break.

    After a while, the shoot finally

    wrapped up. Effie had changed into several different outfits, and the

    photographer was practically

    glowing with excitement-he hadn''t

    felt this inspired in ages.

    Reviewing a few shots, he looked up and said, "These are fantastic. They barely

    need any retouching at all."

    "Have you been practicing behind our backs?"

    Effieughed, surprised. "No, this is actually my first shoot."

    The photographer shook his head, disbelief. "You''re a natural. How

    about

    Ine

    with

    would you like to work v me regrly? I could use a model like you."

    Effie quickly declined, waving her hands. "Thanks, but I''m not really interested. I prefer working on the design side."

    He sighed, clearly disappointed. "That''s a shame."

    Nearby, Fenton nudged Lyman with his elbow and whispered, "How can you just

    sit there? Your wife''s about to be stolen right out from under your nose."

    Annabel folded her arms and shot Fenton a look of utter disdain.

    "Some professional'' you are. You''ve

    been hanging around all day and haven''tnded a single job. O

    Professional, huh..."

    Fenton clicked his tongue and looked at Annabel. "Forget it. I''m not going to argue with a woman."

    "Oh, right. As if you''re such a stand-up guy," she scoffed.

    "Alright, if you two want to argue, go do it somewhere else," Lyman interrupted, rubbing his temples. The bickering was giving him a headache.

    Those two were fine apart, but put them together and it was like striking flint¡ª instant fireworks.

    If only they''d keep their squabbles to themselves, but dragging others into it was their specialty.

    Lyman excused himself to find Effie; he needed to get away from the chaos. Just then, a startled cry rang out.

    "Oh no!"

    It was one of the staff responsible for the jewelry-she''d clearly discovered something was wrong.

 Chapter 315

    Lyman paused mid-step and asked, "What''s going on?"

    The store manager, nerves etched across her face, turned to him. "Mr. Etheridge,

    I just noticed there''s a diamond missing from the earring!"

    "I checked carefully before bringing out the store''s signature piece," she continued, voice trembling. "Everything was in perfect condition, and I even had my staff record a video as we opened the safe. But now..." The manager looked at Lyman with desperate hope, silently pleading with him to believe she was innocent. But whether he did or not was entirely up to him.

    She watched Lyman anxiously, terrified that one wrong move would cost her the job she''d worked so hard to keep.

    "Find out exactly what happened," Lyman ordered, his tone clipped.

    Isabel, never one to miss an opportunity to stir the pot, chimed in with feigned concern. "Oh dear, how could this have happened? I remember the diamond was perfectly intact when I wore the earring. It''s a pink diamond, not exactly small, and worth a pretty penny, isn''t it?"

    Her words cast a heavy silence over the room. No one dared speak-if the diamond wasn''t found, who knew what consequences they''d face?

    Just then, Effie emerged from the changing room, dressed in her own clothes again.

    "What''s going on?" she asked, taking in the tense atmosphere.

    "You''re just in time," Isabel said, her voice sharp with usation. "Did you know the earring''s missing a diamond?"

    Effie hesitated, eyes flicking to the earring in question. She didn''t answer Isabel directly, but simply reached out. "May I see it?"

    "Give it to her," Lyman instructed, not hesitating for a second. He trusted Effie implicitly-if she had wanted that earring, he would''ve given it to her, the wholepany, anything.

    Effie took the earring and inspected it closely.

    Isabel, unwilling to let the matter drop, sniped from the side, "You can stare at it all you want, but the diamond''s not going to magically reappear."

    Effie didn''t even bother acknowledging her, keeping her eyes on the earring and acting as if Isabel was talking to herself.

    After a moment, Effie spoke up. "This earring was designed for beauty, using a special setting that makes the stones look like they''re bnced delicately on top. But n reality, the prongs are strong enough to hold the diamond securely. Unless someone used force, there''s no way it could''ve fallen out on its own."

    Isabel thought privately that Effie really did know her stuff-she''d spotted the issue right away. But so what?

    With mock amazement, Isabel pressed on, "Wow, you certainly know a lot. Maybe a little too much. How do you know someone used force to pry the diamond out? Unless you were the one who did it?"

    Annabel shot Isabel a withering look. "Isabel, that''s enough. Shut your mouth."

    Isabel''s eyes widened theatrically, as if genuinely hurt. "Annabel, I''m just telling the truth. Is that a crime?"

    Annabel replied coolly, "No one''s ming you for telling the truth, but you can''t go around making usations without a shred of evidence."

    At that, Isabel''sposure broke. Tears spilled down her cheeks, and she sobbed as though she''d been deeply wronged. "What did I ever do to you? Why, as my boss, do always defend Effie-the outsider-instead of your own

    people? Or is there something going on between you two?"

    That remark made everyone pause. The way Annabel and Effie had been

    standing together, supporting each other... Was there something more between them?

    Clearly, Isabel''s ploy was working; doubt flickered in the onlookers'' eyes.

    But Annabel was never one to y by the rules. She said, "You''re my employee. I''ve watched you grow up. If I''m not siding with you, why would I take Effie''s side? Maybe you''re eager to me Effie because you have something to hide."

    SO

 Chapter 316

    Isabel froze for a moment, her eyes flickering as she avoided Annabel''s gaze.

    Carole watched Isabel with obvious concern. Isabel was still too impulsive; it looked like she''d already given herself away.

    Isabel realized it too. She needed to take the initiative.

    "If that''s what you want to think, then there''s nothing more for me to say!" Isabel spun on her heel, ready to leave.

    Effie cut in, "Hold on. No one''s going anywhere until we find that diamond."

    Isabel narrowed her eyes at Effie. "You think I took it? I haven''t even used you yet, and you''re already pointing fingers at me?"

    Effie''s voice was calm. "I''m not using anyone in particr. But let''s be honest everyone here is a suspect."

    "Oh? So you''re saying Lyman is a suspect too? This is his ownpany''s property. Why would he steal from himself?"

    Isabel let out a coldugh. She fixed Effie with a hard stare. "You know exactly where youe from, Effie. If you need money, you could''ve asked me, or even the group, for a loan. No need to get your hands dirty."

    Effie replied, ¡°Thanks for the offer, but I don''t think that will be necessary."

    Isabel hesitated for a split second. Effie sounded so sure of herself-did she know something?

    Effie continued, "I asked the photographer to show me the pictures from earlier. The earring was intact when you were wearing it. But right at the beginning of my shoot, the diamond was already missing. I was never out of anyone''s sight the whole time. So I couldn''t have done it."

    She paused, then added, "If anything, you''re looking a lot more suspicious."

    For a moment, Isabel was so stunned she couldn''t even speak.

    She finally managed, "That''s impossible. There''s no way the photos are that clear."

    Effie shrugged. "You didn''t know? Modern cameras have amazing resolution. You can zoom in dozens of times and still see every detail. And this one''s a professional camera."

    "I don''t believe it! Not unless you show me." Isabel held out her hand.

    Effie lifted the camera as if to hand it over, but just as Isabel reached for it, Effie pulled it back, leaving Isabel grasping at air.

    Isabel''s eyes darkened, sharp as knives. "What''s that supposed to mean?"

    Effie arched an eyebrow. "What do You really think I''d

    s You really think I''d be

    enough to hand you thee

    so you could destroy it?"

    Effie''s tone turned steely. "Just be honest. Tell us what really

    happened. Otherwise, I''m calling the

    police. When they get here, you''ll

    have a hard time exining

    yourself."

    Just then, Carole suddenly piped up, "Oh! It was all just a e

    misunderstanding. I went back to the dressing room where Isabel changed earlier, and I found the diamond."

    She held up the diamond, and Isabel finally let out a breath she''d been holding.

    She shot Effie a murderous re, gritting her teeth. "Well? Care to exin yourself now?"

    Effie just smirked, her eyes full of mockery.

    "Why should I exin anything?" she replied. "You''re the one who was shouting ''thief'' the loudest."

    "I''m done with this," Isabel snapped, turning to leave.

    Effie called after her, "Not so fast. You broke the earring-someone''s gotta cover the repair bill, right?"

    "Who says I broke it? I have no idea what happened," Isabel insisted, sticking to her story.

    Effie shrugged. "That''s fine. I''ll just call the police. I''m sure they''ll agree it has nothing to do with the staff."

    "Fine! I''ll pay. Happy now?" Isabel''s eyes shed with anger.

    Just wait, she thought. If she couldn''t drag Effie down this time, she''d make sure

    to find another chance.

 Chapter 317

    Isabel left the building, letting out a shaky breath as she turned to Carole. "Well, at least this time, nothing happened."

    Carole hesitated, clearly wanting to say something but holding back.

    Isabel caught the look, her brows knitting together. "Carole, what''s that supposed to mean?"

    Carole exhaled, frustration slipping into her voice. "Do you really think nothing happened?"

    "What do you mean?"

    "They didn''t find any proof, sure, but that''s only because I found an excuse to get the diamond out of there. Still, the suspicion is there now, in their minds. Next time, you need to think before you act, or you''ll have even bigger problems."

    Isabel''s mood soured. Problems? Wasn''t that exactly what a manager was supposed to handle for her? Was Carole reallyining now?

    Just then, Carole''s phone started ringing. She nced at the screen-Annabel.

    Carole''s gut twisted with dread as she answered. Her face grew more and more serious as she listened. "Okay. I understand."

    Once she hung up, Carole turned to Isabel. "I''m taking you back to your apartment. All your scheduled appearances are on hold for now. Take some time off andy low."

    The smile drained from Isabel''s face, her frown deepening. "Did Annabel tell you to do this? Is she putting me on ice?"

    Carole sighed, weary and resigned. "That''s exactly it."

    Rage red in Isabel''s eyes. "Annabel begged me to sign with her when herpany was brand new and couldn''tnd any decent talent! If it weren''t for me, she''d never have been able to sign those other top prospects, and now herpany''s doing even better than I am! How can she be so ungrateful?"

    She spun around, ready to march off. "No way. I''m going to talk to Annabel right now and find out what the hell she''s thinking!"

    Carole quickly caught her arm, letting out another sigh. "Listen, the boss would''ve covered for you if he could, but... you crossed Mr. Etheridge."

    That was all Isabel needed to hear. The realization hit her, sharp and cold.

    Her nose stung with the threat of tears, her eyes hot and swollen. In the next second, tears spilled over and she choked out, "All this...just for that bitch Effie? Lyman would really go this far?"

    Carole shook her head and patted Isabel''s shoulder. "It''s not worth it. Just stay away from Effie for now Keep a low profile and get some rest. The boss isn''t dropping you, and Mr. Etheridge hasn''t made anything official. This is just a soft cklist. Once he cools off, you''ll be fine."

    "A soft cklist? How long am I supposed to wait?" Isabel snapped.

    ¡°Unless you have another n?" Carole raised an eyebrow.

    Isabel fell silent. If she had another option, she wouldn''t be trapped like this, dancing to Annabel''s tune.

    This business was half luck, half

    mystery. Good looks and talent didn''t always mean sess. Some average faces shot to stardom.

    overnight, while others

    r caught

    a break, no matter how hard they tried.

    Carole knew Isabel had been handed every opportunity, but if she couldn''t make herself a star, there was nothing anyone could do.

    "Hungry? Let''s grab something to eat," Annabel suggested.

    Effie nced at her. "Where do you want to go?"

    Annabel thought for a moment. "There''s a new ce that just opened, everyone''s raving about their spicy rabbit. I hear it''s amazing-want to check it out?"

    Effie hesitated, then relented. "Sure, why not."

 Chapter 318

    She''d never tried rabbit before, but since Annabel was in high spirits, she didn''t want to spoil the mood.

    Truth be told, Annabel wasn''t dying to eat rabbit either. The real reason she suggested this ce was because she knew someone at the table couldn''t handle spicy food and she wanted to have some fun at their expense.

    She''d been here once before with another actor. The vors were spot on; for a spice lover like her, it was basically heaven.

    "Come on, let''s go. I''ll show the way," Annabel said.

    She walked on ahead, only to spot Fenton trailing after them.

    Crossing her arms, Annabel looked at Fenton with clear annoyance. "Why are you following us?" she snapped. Seriously, did he have no shame?

    Fenton shot back, "I''ming to eat too. Is that a problem?"

    "Not at all. Why would it be?" A mischievous glint shed in Annabel''s eyes.

    Let''s see how you survive this.

    Soon enough, they arrived at the little restaurant Annabel had mentioned.

    Besides the spicy rabbit, the ce boasted a spread of other signature dishes. The ce was nothing to look at, but the food was good, so the crowd was always steady.

    Even before they reached the door, the fiery aroma hit them-so intense it made their throats burn.

    For spice lovers, this was paradise. For those who couldn''t stand heat, it was pure hell.

    Fenton had barely set foot inside before his brows knit together in distress.

    Annabel noticed and couldn''t help but smirk.

    Since the restaurant was a bit of a walk from the office, when Lyman reached out to take Effie''s hand, she didn''t resist. Hand in hand, they strolled along at a leisurely pace, looking for all the world like an ordinary young couple out for dinner.

    "Can you handle spicy food?" Lyman asked quietly.

    "I''m okay with it," Effie replied.

    "If you don''t want to stay, we can leave," he said gently.

    He''d noticed the hesitation in her voice when she''d agreed to Annabel''s invitation. Now, he finally had a chance to ask in private.

    Effie shook her head. "No need. It''s rare for us all to go out together-I don''t want to spoil Annabel''s fun."

    "You don''t have to force yourself. Annabel''s not here for the food, anyway," Lyman said.

    Effie nodded. She''d realized it too-Annabel seemed more interested in teasing Fenton than anything else.

    Chances were, Fenton had picked up on it as well.

    There was a strange energy between those two. Effie couldn''t help thinking they were like a pair of sparring partners-never missing an opportunity to jab at each other.

    She''d have to ask Lyman about itter.

    The four of them sat down, each lost in their own thoughts. Annabel ordered the

    spiciest broth on the menu-extra chili, extra pepper.

    "Maybe we should get a in broth too?" Effie suggested.

    "No need. If you can''t even handle a little heat, are you really a man?" Annabel taunted.

    Fenton snorted. "Who says I can''t eat spicy food?"

    "Great. Whoever chickens out has to admit defeat," Annabel said, a sly smile tugging at her lips.

    Fenton nearly choked on his own saliva. "Fine," he managed.

    Soon, the dishes Annabel ordered arrived. The moment the broth started bubbling, Fenton was hit by a wave of spicy steam that made his eyes water and his nose run. He had to turn away and dab at his eyes in silence.

    Annabel watched him, grinning. Let''s see who gives up first.

    She dug in, tearing into the spicy rabbit with gusto.

    Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed Effie eating delicately-her manners

    impable, but her movements unselfconscious.

    Annabel called out, "Effie, you''re not just putting on an act, are you?"

    Effie looked up in surprise. ¡°No, this is just how I usually eat."

    Lyman chimed in, "Her grandfather''s a college professor, and her grandmother

    was raised in a family of schrs."

    Annabel let out a soft "Oh," suddenly understanding Effie''s poise.

    punja

    Still, what was with that smug look on Lyman''s face? As if Effie''s manners were some kind of personal achievement. What did it

    have to do with him, anyway?

 Chapter 319

    Annabel tried to mimic Effie''s delicate gestures, but quickly realized it was hopeless-gracefulness wasn''t something you could just fake.

    Fenton couldn''t help himself; he burst outughing. "Nice try, Annabel. You look like a clown at a royal ball."

    Annabel''s eyes shed with fire. ¡°Shut up, Fenton!"

    He justughed harder, refusing to let her save face. But in the middle of hisughter, he inhaled a lungful of spicy pepper fumes and started coughing so violently he nearly choked.

    This time, Annabel got her revenge, giggling as he struggled to recover.

    "You guys are so boring. I''d rather readics than sit here with you."

    She peeled off her disposable gloves, pulled out her phone, and started scrolling through aic. She''d never been that interested inics before-could take them or leave them¡ªbuttely, all the younger folks at her office had been obsessed with a certain author. They imed theics were hrious and addictive.

    The stories were wild, full of drama, and there was always this unlucky viin who got repeatedly humiliated. The author''sst series had just wrapped up, and a new one had dropped earlier this month. Annabel had been too busy to check it out, but now, with nothing better to do, she dove right in.

    A few pages in, Annabel froze.

    She nced up from her phone, staring at Effie, then at Lyman, then back at her phone, her expression growing more incredulous by the second.

    "Annabel, what are you doing?" Lyman grumbled, clearly annoyed. It was hard to enjoy your food with someone staring at you like that.

    Effie, too, gave Annabel a puzzled look. Something was definitely off.

    Annabel finally said, "I''m reading thisic and the main characters look just like you two! The heroine''s boyfriend cheats on her with her sister, so she marries some guy she barely knows, and-surprise-they fall in love after the wedding." Effie''s cheeks turned pink. Cheating boyfriends, revenge marriages, idental romance-it was hard not to see herself in that setup.

    "And even though it''s drawn as aic, everything about it feels like the two of you."

    "Let me see," Fenton said, craning his neck to peek at her phone.

    Annabel shoved him away, nearly knocking him off his chair.

    Fenton red at her. "What''s your problem?"

    Annabel shot back, "You''re the problem! Who said you could look at my phone?"

    He snorted. "It''s not like I haven''t seen worse."

    Something sly flickered in Annabel''s eyes. "Well, you''re not touching my phone, got it?"

    "Even if you begged me, I wouldn''t want to," Fenton huffed, refusing to back down.

    Effie leaned in, genuinely curious. "Annabel, can I see it?"

    Annabel hesitated. She leaned in close and whispered, "Uh... it''s kind of... not really for all audiences."

    Truth was, this author specialized in rather risqu¨¦ics-gorgeous art, gripping storylines, but also scenes that were anything but PG. The series had be a sensation overseas, partly because of the beautiful, sometimes explicit, content.

    The main couple couldn''t keep their hands off each other-shower, balcony, kitchen table, even the washing machine. There wasn''t a single ce the hero hadn''t, well,

    "tested the limits."

    Sometimes,te at night, Annabel would find her mouth dry, a certain thirst

    building inside her. And the way she wanted to quench it... well, that took two people.

    Effie flushed, her gaze flickering away. "Maybe I''ll pass, then..."

    "Oh,e on, you have to look!" Annabel insisted, nudging her. "Honestly, women can be just as naughty as men. We just like our eye candy ssy and good-looking. The hero in thisic is insanely handsome-the only guy I''ve ever seen who couldpare is my brother. Seriously, real life doesn''t stand a chance."

 Chapter 320

    She''d picked out a few scenes where the male lead looked especially handsome and showed them to Effie.

    Effie couldn''t help but let out a dramatic gasp. Suddenly, her nose felt hot-she dabbed at it and stared in disbelief. Blood!

    She was actually having a nosebleed.

    The moment Lyman saw Effie''s predicament, he fumbled to help her staunch the bleeding, grabbing a handful of napkins and practically tripping over himself in his urgency.

    After a few tense minutes, Effie finally recovered.

    Lyman, still worried, asked, "Maybe it''s because you ate too much spicy food? That stuff can really get your blood running."

    Effie''s cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "Y-yeah, that must be it," she stammered.

    The truth was, Annabel''s choice of scenes had been just a little too steamy, and Effie had totally lost control of herself.

    Her face still burning, Effie leaned in close to Annabel and whispered, "Send that to me."

    Annabel caught sight of Effie''s apple-red cheeks, her lips curling into a sly smile. "Sure thing. Give me a sec."

    Effie nodded, flustered. "Uh-huh, okay."

    Just then, a familiar voice rang out from across the restaurant: "Excuse me, could we get the extra spicy broth, please? And go heavy on the heat."

    Effie instinctively turned toward the sound. There stood Suzan Bagnold, heavily pregnant, walking in with Vera as they approached the counter to order.

    Vera looked at Suzan with obvious concern. "Suzan, you''re still expecting. Are you sure it''s a good idea to eat something this spicy?"

    Suzan waved off her mother''s worries. "Mom, you worry too much. This baby''s tough as nails. Remember when I went horseback riding? If that didn''t do anything, a little spicy food won''t hurt."

    Still unconvinced, Vera tried, "Maybe just go easy on the spice?"

    Suzan shook her head stubbornly. "No way, I want it hot."

    "Well... if you''re sure."

    Vera hesitated, then mused, "You know, they say if you crave spicy food, you''re probably having a girl."

    Suzan scowled, obviously annoyed. "Mom, that''s just an old wives'' tale. It''s thinking. Cravings are just hormones, they don''t mean anything about the baby''s gender."

    Vera shrugged. "Maybe, but you know how the Lloyd family is-they''ve always

    wanted boys. What if you end up having a girl? What then?"

    Suzan''s hands froze mid-motion. "Rx, the sky isn''t falling yet. If it''s a girl, I''ll figure something out."

    "Figure something out?" Vera''s eyes narrowed with sudden suspicion. "You''re not thinking of "

    Suzan quickly gestured for her to keep quiet. "If you don''t say anything and I don''t say anything, no one will ever know."

    Vera nodded, though her voice was tense. "It''d just be easier if it''s a boy."

    Raising someone else''s child-she''d always thought that was pointless. If the baby didn''te from your own body, you''d never truly bond with it. That was why she''d insisted Effie couldn''t stay with the Bagnold family back then.

    She''d tried to drill this lesson into Suzan, though Suzan only saw it as nagging. Unbeknownst to them, every word of their conversation drifted over to Effie''s ears. Annabel, ever the gossip, nced at Effie and asked under her breath, "They''re talking about you, aren''t they?"

    A mocking smile flickered through Effie''s eyes. "That''s right. That''s why you should never gossip behind someone''s back-you never know who''s listening."

    "Don''t worry," Annabel said, "I''ll always have your back."

    Effie looked calm enough on the outside, but Annabel suspected she was just putting on a brave face.

    Right now, what Effie probably needed most was silent support.

    To lighten the mood, Annabel deliberately changed the subject. "Seriously, who craves spicy food when they''re pregnant? Has she fost her mind? Too much spicy stuff can trigger contractions and isn''t safe for the baby."

 Chapter 321

    Effie''s eyes narrowed as she said, "She''s brought this on herself. It''s not the first time she''s pulled something like this. Honestly, what does it have to do with me?"

    Annabel tossed her hair, agreeing, "Exactly. Let''s just go. Suddenly, I''ve lost my appetite for this ce."

    "Yeah, let''s."

    As Effie stood to leave, she nearly collided with Suzan, who was heading over to grab some condiments.

    Suzan shot Effie a re, her tone dripping with mockery. "Are you blind, or just careless? Can''t you see I''m pregnant? Or did you do that on purpose?"

    Effie met her gaze coolly. "Suzan, being pregnant isn''t a free pass to act like a tyrant. You can''t just use it as an excuse to do whatever you want."

    Suzan snorted, her hand protectively on her belly. "What''s wrong, Effie? Jealous, are you? Maybe you''d like to be in my shoes, but that would require you being able to get pregnant in the first ce." She eyed Effie with smug satisfaction.

    Annabel wrinkled her nose in disgust, covering her mouth with her hand. "God, who let a sewer rat in here? The smelling from your mouth is unbearable."

    "You-" Suzan shot her an infuriated look, but when her eyesnded on Annabel, the first word that popped into her mind was "dominatrix." She couldn''t help but wonder how Effie even knew someone like this. With that sultry outfit, could she be... working the streets? Honestly, it wouldn''t be surprising. It''s not like Effie knows anyone respectable. Besides, Annabel did look familiar-maybe she''d seen her in some tawdry news story about prostitutes.

    Suzan sneered, "Oh please,ing from you? I bet you''ve spread your legs all over town. You''re filthier than my mouth could ever be."

    Annabel''s smile vanished. Her eyes darkened, a flicker of menace passing over her face. She raised her hand.

    Effie''s hand shot up, intercepting Annabel''s. Annabel red, unamused-Effie was the first person to ever stop her mid-p.

    "Effie, let go,¡± Annabel said through clenched teeth.

    Effie turned to her, voice steady. "Annabel, leave this one to me. I''m used to it. No need to dirty your hands."

    That actually made Annabelugh. The tension in her shoulders eased a bit. "Fine. But do me a favor-don''t hold back."

    "Wouldn''t dream of it."

    Suzan froze. Panic flickered in her eyes. Was Effie really going to hit her? She spun around, looking for an escape-only to find Lyman and Fenton blocking her way. Her heart skipped a beat.

    Lyman spoke first, his voice cold. "You''re not going anywhere."

    Suzan swallowed, trying desperately to regain herposure. "What, Mr.

    Etheridge? You''re going to hit a pregnant woman? Aren''t you worried people will talk?"

    Effie stepped up, raising her hand. "Why would he need to? The one who''s about to teach you a lesson is me."

    With that, Effie pped Suzan hard across the face.

    Suzan was stunned, a ringing silence filling her head. She stood there, dumbfounded, unable to react.

    Annabel grinned at Effie. "Nice shot. Good thing we ate first."

    Effie caught her meaning instantly. "Yeah, I''m feeling pretty energized."

    Suzan finally snapped out of it, rage and humiliation twisting her face She wanted to w Effie''s eyes out, but with so many people on Effie''s side, she knew she didn''t stand a chance. She''d have to bide her time.

    Suddenly, Suzan clutched her stomach and copsed to the floor, wailing dramatically. ¡°Oh, my stomach! You''re bullying a pregnant woman! I think something''s wrong!"

    Lyman shot Fenton a look. Fenton immediately moved to stand over Suzan, blocking her escape.

    Suzan''s view was suddenly filled

    with Fenton''s imposing figure. Ske looked up, and those steely, unforgiving eyes made her feel as

    though she were standing in front of a judge.

    Her fears were soon confirmed, as Fenton coolly revealed his credentials.

 Chapter 322

    He said, "I''m awyer. If you say your stomach hurts, I can take you to the hospital and record everything for you. But if you''re lying, you''ll have to face legal consequences."

    At this point, Suzan was starting to lose her nerve, but she still refused to get up.

    Fenton, as if he''d seen it alling, pulled out a business card. "I''m Fenton."

    Fenton? So what...

    But then something clicked in Suzan''s mind, and her face changed drastically.

    "You''re Fenton from YF Group? The legendary Fenton who never loses?" she murmured, almost in disbelief.

    Fenton gave a modest smile. "People tend to overestimate me. I lose sometimes too."

    Suzan jolted as if she''d been shocked, scrambling to her feet. "I... I''m fine. Really, I''m suddenly just fine. How strange, ha... ha..."

    Annabel chimed in, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "Mr. Fenton is famous for dabbling in everything. Looks like he''s moonlighting as a doctor now."

    She turned to Suzan, eyes narrowed. "Are you sure you''re fine? Because if you miss this chance, you won''t find another one."

    Suzan''s eyes went wide with fear, and she shook her head vigorously. "I''m fine, I''m fine!"

    Vera, pale-faced, hurried over to apologize. "I''m so sorry, Mr. Etheridge. My daughter was rude and bumped into your friend. Please ept my apologies."

    Lyman shot back coldly, "Leave."

    "Get out. Now."

    Vera grabbed Suzan and hurried her away, her voice a low whisper as they left, "Suzan, should I call Mitchell to pick you up?"

    Suzan replied, "No point. He hasn''t been home in ages-he''s swamped at work. I heard there''s trouble at thepany."

    Trouble at thepany?

    Effie seemed to catch onto something and nced at Lyman. He met her gaze, as if to say, "What are you thinking?"

    Effie just said, "Let''s go."

    "I''m starving. Let''s find somewhere to eat," Annabel suggested.

    "Sounds good."

    For once, Annabel didn''t cause any more trouble. She picked an

    unremarkable diner, and at l

    managed

    to fill their stomachs.

    After the meal, everyone went their separate ways.

    In the car, Effie suddenly remembered what had happened earlier and couldn''t help butugh.

    Her dyed reaction amused her-thinking back to the scene, she found it hrious.

    "What''s so funny?" Lyman nced over at her.

    "I''m justughing at myself. If you hadn''t been there, Suzan never would''ve let me off so easily."

    Even knowing that, Effie wouldn''t have hesitated to confront Suzan. She''d had enough of her for a long time.

    Lyman thought she had something serious on her mind, but it turned out to be just this.

    He took her hand gently. "I''m here for you. So don''t be shy-use me as much as you want."

    Effie looked at him, then after a moment replied softly, "But I can''t bear to do that."

    Lyman felt as if his heart had just been struck-was this what falling in love felt like?

    When they returned to Effie''s grandmother''s house, the olddy was already fast asleep.

    Lyman leaned in and whispered, "Go take a shower."

    "Alright," Effie replied.

    After her shower, she felt refreshed, finally free from the lingering smell of dinner.

    Her hair was still damp when Lyman

    came over, took her hand, and

    her

    Saner

    down on the edge of the bed. He turned to close the door.

    Watching Lyman''s back, Effie''s mind drifted, recalling theic Annabel had shown her. Maybe because her life was so much like the heroine''s, she couldn''t help but rte-her stomach tightened, and she felt heat rush to her cheeks.

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    Lyman turned his head and found Effie gazing at him, unblinking. Her longshes fluttered, and her beautiful eyes shimmered like sunlight on water-deep,

    luminous, mesmerizing.

    A sly smile tugged at Lyman''s lips as he walked over and took a seat beside her.

    Effie swallowed nervously, clutching at the fabric of her jeans on either side.

    Lyman leaned in, shifting closer and closer to her.

    Effie forgot to breathe; her heart pounded so fast, it felt like it might leap out of her chest at any moment.

    "You" she started.

    Lyman didn''t answer. He only moved nearer, until the space between them was barely a whisper.

    Effie''s senses filled with his intoxicating scent-masculine,manding, yet somehowforting. Her heart hammered even harder, and she squeezed her eyes shut, bracing for the kiss she was certain woulde.

    But the gentle press of his lips nevernded.

    Instead, the sound of the nightstand drawer sliding open broke the tension, followed by a quiet rustling as he searched for something.

    Wait-what?

    Effie opened her eyes and saw Lyman holding a hair dryer, a teasing glint in his gaze.

    "What are you looking at?" he asked, half-smiling. "Your hair''s soaking wet. If you go to bed like this, you''ll catch a cold¡ªor wake up with a nasty headache."

    For a moment, Effie just stared at him, heat creeping up her cheeks. So she''d let her imagination run wild, after all.

    She''d really thought...

    Effieughed awkwardly and reached out. "Um... let me do it."

    Trying to hide her embarrassment, she extended her hand for the dryer.

    But Lyman pulled it back, just out of reach. "I''ve got this. Husbands are supposed to dry their wives'' hair. That''s how it should be."

    She started to protest, but Lyman already had the machine humming, choosing the medium setting instead of sting it on high.

    "This way, it''s quieter," he said, ncing at her. "We won''t wake your grandma."

    Effie murmured a soft agreement.

    So that''s why he''d gone to close the door earlier to keep the noise from disturbing her grandmother.

    Lyman''s hands were gentle as he untangled her hair, cautious not to tug too hard, as if he feared hurting her.

    Effie rxed, lulled by the warm air and his careful touch, feeling so safe and content she nearly drifted off to sleep.

    Suddenly, the drone of the dryer stopped.

    Drowsy, Effie blinked her eyes open and saw Lyman had already set the dryer aside. Now he was staring straight at her, his eyes dark and intense, drawing her in like a whirlpool.

    Effie''s breath caught. Before she could react, Lyman leaned in and murmured, "Your turn''s over. Now it''s mine."

    He closed the distance in a heartbeat, his lips iming hers, stealing the air from her lungs.

    Effie melted into his arms, soft and pliant...

    Later that night, her grandmother got up for a ss of water. As she passed Effie''s door, she heard noises that made her cheeks flush scarlet. She hurried past, pretending she''d heard nothing at all.

    The next morning, Grandma made an announcement at breakfast. "I''ve decided¡ª I''m moving in with you two at your ce."

    Effie blinked, then broke into a radiant grin. ¡°Really? You mean it, Grandma? You really want toe with us?"

    Grandma watched her granddaughter''s eyes go misty with happiness. She reached over and patted Effie''s head, her gaze full of affection. "When have I ever lied to you?"

    Effie nodded, barely containing her excitement. "Okay!"

    "You two go to work. I''ll start packing up here, and we''ll move over after you get back," Grandma said, already bustling around.

    As she gathered her things, she muttered under her breath, "If I have to listen to

    those kinds of noises every night, I''ll never get any sleep..."

    Effie couldn''t help but wonder-since she and Lyman hade home sotest night, they hadn''t even spoken to Grandma. She was

    already asleep. Then what changed her mind about moving in with them?

    in

 Chapter 324

    But none of that mattered anymore¡ªher grandmother had already agreed, and that was all Effie cared about.

    Back at the office, as Effie walked in, Irving Butler spotted her and scowled as if he''d just stepped in something unpleasant.

    In Irving''s eyes, Effie clearly had a knack for maniption; somehow, everyone seemed to be on her side, even at the expense of Isabel''s wellbeing.

    Still...

    "Effie," he said, his tone dripping with disdain, "some people need to remember their ce. Are you a designer, or a spokesperson? Don''t get so caught up in your side gig that you forget your real job."

    Effie had long since stopped pretending to be cordial with Irving. Now, she saw no reason to y nice.

    She looked him straight in the eye and replied, "Irving, are you saying there''s something wrong with my work? If there is, please point it out."

    Her meaning was clear: if she''d really neglected her duties or let her side work interfere with her main job, she''d apologize, even ept criticism. But as it stood, she hadn''t made a single mistake-so why should she put up with Irving''s passive-aggressive jabs?

    Irving wanted to snap back, but he couldn''t find any fault to pin on her.

    Effie always handled her responsibilities impably, never leaving so much as a loose end.

    With nothing else to say, he could only grumble, "Suit yourself."

    With that, he stormed into his office, mming the door behind him. The resounding bang was clearly meant for Effie.

    She didn''t bat an eye.

    Shirley, watching the whole exchange, looked at Effie with open admiration. She gave her a thumbs-up. "Effie, you''re amazing."

    "In this department, you''re the only one with both talent and the right connections, so you can afford to stand up to him. The rest of us wouldn''t dare."

    Effie patted Shirley''s shoulder and said, "If a had were connections, Irving could easily trip me up at work and find an excuse to fire me. The key is having real ability-only then can you be truly untouchable."

    Shirley nodded in agreement. Suddenly remembering something, she pulled out her design sketches and handed them to Effie with a hopeful expression. "Effie, could you take a look and tell me if these are any good?"

    "Of course," Effie said.

    Just then, Peter happened to walk by. Overhearing their conversation, he snorted, "Even if an assistantes up with a great design, no one''s ever going to use it. Unless..."

    Effie raised an eyebrow. "Unless what?"

    Peter just smirked and walked away without another word.

    Effie frowned. "What''s that supposed to mean?"

    Shirley''s face had gone pale. She looked at Effie and exined, "There''s this unwritten rule in the

    everywhere. No matter how talented

    a junior employee is, if you haven''t been in the industry for a few years and made a name for yourself, nobody''s going to take your work seriously. Clients will nitpick every detail, find fault with everything."

    "But if a well-known designer shows them the exact same work, they''ll praise it to the skies."

    "It''s really just that clients don''t have any faith in neers-they always think the veterans are better."

    "It''s not just in this field, either. My friend from college became a frence writer after graduation and went through the same thing. No one wanted her articles, no matter how hard she tried. Some people told her to start ghostwriting, but she refused."

 Chapter 325

    "She had her own dreams-she wanted to write travel blogs that truly meant

    something to her. Later, she started a really sessful blog of her own. Now she has a few million loyal followers. I''m so d she made it."

    Shirley''s eyes shone with envy as she spoke.

    Effie was stunned. How had she never heard any of this before?

    Maybe it was because, in those years, Mitchell hadn''t wanted her to get too involved in thepany''s decisions. He''d kept her so carefully sheltered, like a delicate flower in an ivory tower, that she''d convinced herself she was happy- lost in the illusion Mitchell had built around her.

    No wonder she''d never realized there were these unwritten rules in the industry.

    "Honestly, I know exactly where I stand with my work. I just wanted your opinion, that''s all. There''s no way you''d actually like my designs. But if, by some miracle, you really did, I''d be honored."

    Shirley didn''t have much confidence, but who else could she turn to if not Effie?

    Effie smiled reassuringly. "Don''t worry, I''ll look it over carefully. You can count on me."

    Shirley''s gratitude was obvious. "Thank you, Effie."

    "No problem," Effie replied.

    True to her word, Effie finished her own work and then dove into reviewing Shirley''s designs.

    When Shirley came back from Peter''s office, she looked dejected, her head hanging low. She noticed Effie was busy and hesitated to interrupt.

    But Effie spotted her and immediately wheeled over Shirley''s chair. "Shirley, your designs are great. They''re already at a level where they could go into production."

    Shirley stared at Effie, stunned. Her lips parted, but for a long moment, she couldn''t find any words.

    "Effie, really? But..."

    She trailed off, uncertainty clouding her face.

    "But what?" Effie prompted.

    Shirley forced a smile. "Peter just chewed me out. He said I was clumsy, that I couldn''t handle even the simplest tasks, let alone dream of bing an independent designer. He said I''d never make it in this business."

    She didn''t want to bad-mouth Peter, but the words still stung.

    Effie''s praise was almost too much to believe. Was she just being nice because they got along well? If that was the case, Shirley wished she wouldn''t.

    "So you don''t have to sugarcoat it, Effie. Just be honest. I can take it."

    Effie blinked in surprise. "Shirley, what makes you think your designs aren''t good enough? I''m not the type to lie if something''s good, I''ll say so; if not, I''ll tell you straight. I''m just telling the truth here."

    She paused, then added, "If you don''t believe me, I''ll go straight to Irving and ask him to send your designs to the factory. Then we''ll see them in the new collection at The Etheridge Group''s jewelry store."

    "Effie, don''t do anything rash!" Shirley still couldn''t believe Effie was serious.

    Just hearing that Effie liked her work was enough to make her day-how could she possibly expect her designs to actually be produced and sold?

    Most designers here got scolded almost daily-something was always not good enough. Irving Butler, the head of design, never handed outpliments.

    Effie shook her head. "I''m not just saying this to cheer you up! The only reason you don''t have confidence in your work is because some people want that way. You''re a great assistant-smart, fast, and reliable. And in this industry, thepetition is fierce. Thest thing they want is another strong designer in the mix. If you were in their shoes, would you want someone like you as yourpetition?"

 Chapter 326

    Shirley thought for a moment and said, "If it were me, I think I''d be okay with it. Just because someone else is better doesn''t mean you can''t work hard yourself. You can push yourself to catch up, to be strong too."

    Effie gave a softugh. "If everyone had your attitude, we wouldn''t have so much office drama."

    Effie sifted through Shirley''s portfolio, picking out eight pieces. "You gave me twelve designs this time, but I think four still need work-they could be perfect with a bit more polish. I''ll take these eight to Irving for now."

    Shirley''s eyes widened. "Wow, eight? That''s already way more than I expected. I thought maybe one would make the cut."

    Effie smiled, shaking her head. "Why are you always selling yourself short?"

    Effie left to find Irving Butler. As soon as she was gone, Peter sidled over, voice dripping with sarcasm. "You can''t really be naive enough to think Effie''s going to help you, can you?"

    Shirley shot him an annoyed look. "And what, you think you will?"

    Peter gave a smug little smirk. "Of course. I''ve been at thispany forever, and Irving and I go way back. If you hand those designs over to me instead, I promise you''ll make a lot more money."

    Shirley parted her lips, about to reply, but Peter cut her off before she could say a word.

    "No need to rush your answer," he said, holding up a hand. "Let''s wait and see what Effie says when shees out, okay?"

    Shirley shook her head. "Don''t bother. Effie''s the only one I trust."

    Peter''s eyes narrowed, his expression darkening as he muttered through clenched teeth, "Utterly foolish. Just don''te crying to meter.¡±

    Just then, Effie came back out, clearly upset.

    "Effie?" Shirley ventured carefully.

    Peter, ever the opportunist, shed Shirley a smug grin. "See? I told you she wouldn''t pull it off. Maybe now you''ll believe me."

    Shirley pressed her lips together, refusing to respond.

    Effie turned on Peter sharply. "What are you doing out here, stirring up trouble?¡±

    She added coldly, "You never have anything good to say, do you?"

    Peter''s re deepened. "Don''t get ahead of yourself, Effie. One day, you''ll be the one packing up your desk."

    Effie just raised an eyebrow,pletely unfazed. "I''m curious-will you beat me to it, or will I go first?"

    Peter let out a derisive snort. "We''ll see about that."

    Effie turned back to Shirley. "Irving

    loved

    want

    your designs. But he doesn''t give you credit. He

    I put my name on yo said?

    work."

    A wave of disappointment washed over Shirley. She''d imagined a dozen possible

    oues, and unfortunately, this was one of them.

    She forced a small smile. "It''s fine. I figured as much."

    Effie shook her head. "No, it''s not fine. These are your designs. Your name should be on them."

    Shirley looked at her gratefully. "Really it''s okay. You''ve done

    everything you could. I don''t wel

    nov

    make trouble for you over something like this."

    Effie''s tone was firm. "This isn''t nothing, Shirley."

    While the two women talked quietly, Peter was called into Irving Butler''s office.

    "You wanted to see me, Irving?"

    Irving looked up from his desk.

    know,

    that

    Shirley is really

    "You

    . She''s still new, butel.ne

    s are already impressive."

    Peter''s expression didn''t flicker¡ªhe looked like he''d seen iting all along.

 Chapter 327

    Peter leaned back in his chair, voice low and casual. "I''ve always known how talented Shirley is. That''s why I''ve kept her under my thumb, kept her thinking she''s not good enough-so she''d stay in the background, doing all the grunt work for us."

    Irving Butler''s gaze darkened, something flickering in his eyes. "But now that Effie -damn her-has gone and admitted how good Shirley is, I''ve got no choice. I told Effie to put Shirley''s name on the project, give her the credit. Of course, that woman refused."

    Peter''s eyes narrowed as a n began to form. "What if we just cut them out of the loop? Don''t tell Effie or Shirley anything let them start doubting each other, drive a wedge between them."

    Irving''s face lit up. He pped Peter on the shoulder. "Now that''s what I like to hear. You''ve got a bright future ahead, son."

    Peter put on his best sycophantic smile. "Only because you lead the way, Mr. Butler."

    Irving looked truly pleased. "Don''t worry. Since that director spot opened up, I''ve had my eye on you all along."

    For a moment, Peter''s fa?ade slipped, emotion flickering across his face. "Thank you, Mr. Butler. If I really do get that promotion, I''ll never forget what you''ve done for me."

    The implication couldn''t have been clearer, and Irving certainly didn''t miss it. His grin widened, smug and satisfied. "We''re in this together, Peter. You''ll be well taken care of¡ªI guarantee it."

    Peter''s smile faltered just a little, his eyes momentarily clouded with uncertainty. "Tonight. Usual ce," Irving said.

    Peter hesitated. He had no choice but to nod. "Alright. I''ll be there."

    As Peter left Irving''s office, he couldn''t help but nce-calcted and intense- toward Effie and Shirley across the open-n floor.

    Shirley felt a sudden tightness in her throat. Instinctively, she turned to Effie. "Did you see the look Peter just gave us? Something feels off."

    Effie shrugged, calm and steady. "Don''t worry about it. Let''s just focus on our own work. Even if he''s nning something, he won''t get far."

    Her words were reassuring, but Shirley still felt uneasy.

    "I''m going to poke around-see what I can find out."

    Before Effie had joined thepany, Shirley had always been popr. Easygoing and talented, she''d won everyone over. People even joked she was the office gossip queen.

    But today, Shirley hit a wall.

    She returned to Effie, looking dejected. "Nothing. I couldn''t get a thing out of anyone. After Peter left Irving''s office, he didn''t talk to anyone, so nobody knows what''s up."  s?novel

    The more she failed to get answers, the more a sense of foreboding crept over

    her. She couldn''t shake the feeling that something bad wasing.

    Effie tried to reassure her. "Don''t overthink it. Sometimes, a calm day really is just

    a calm day. No storm on the horizon-don''t spook yourself."

    Shirley nodded halfheartedly,

    pressing her palms together like she was making a prayer. Under her breath, she muttered, ¡°Dear Lord, please watch over me..."

    Effie couldn''t help butugh, shaking her head in amusement.

    Finally, lunchtime rolled around. Shirley brightened. "Effie, let''s get something to eat."

    "What are you in the mood for?" Effie asked.

    "There''s this amazing little Italian ce nearby-super famous, really authentic pasta, and everything else on the menu is fantastic. Want to go?"

    Effie smiled. "Sounds perfect."

 Chapter 328

    Effie had always loved noodles¡ªany kind, really. Whether it was spicy ramen, creamy carbonara, or ssic chicken noodle, she adored them all.

    She and Shirley walked together to the noodle ce Shirley had rmended. Effie was surprised to find it just a short stroll behind their office building.

    The front side of the building faced the bustling city center, all honking horns and streams of traffic. But step around back, and you were suddenly in a different world-a cozy, lively street full of local vor.

    Vendors called out to passersby, and the air was thick with the mouthwatering aromas of simmering broths and fresh bread.

    Shirley led Effie to a table, and they didn''t have to wait long before their food arrived.

    There weren''t any menus here. The owner made just one kind of noodle, rumored to be handmade every morning, giving them a wonderful chew and a vor that was hard to beat.

    As Shirley dug in, she sniffed appreciatively and told Effie, "Back in college, I used to take the bus for nearly an hour just to eat these noodles."

    She wasn''t great with spicy food, but somehow she always thought a hint of heat made everything taste better.

    Still, Shirley''s idea of "a little spicy" never quite matched up with the owner''s.

    Suddenly, Effie grinned as a thought struck her. "So tell me, did you take this job just to be closer to these noodles?"

    Shirley nodded,ughing. "You''re too sharp, Effie! Actually, when I first started working here, I came almost every day. But you know, no matter how much you love something, you get sick of it if you have it all the time. After a while, I was so full of noodles, I felt like I was breathing out noodle-scented air. Eventually, I stoppeding for a long stretch."

    Effie nodded with augh. It was true-too much of even your favorite thing could wear you out.

    For some reason, as she listened, an image of Lyman''s handsome face floated through her mind.

    Did the same apply to people? Did feelings fade over time, the way Mitchell''s had for her?

    She didn''t know. She and Lyman were only at the beginning.

    "I''m going to get an order to go," Effie said.

    Shirley''s eyes sparkled

    mischievously. "nning to bring some up for Mr. Etheridge? But do you think he''d go for food from a little ce like this?"

    She put on a teasing, dramatic voice. "In my mind, CEOs are all supposed to eat

    steak under candlelight, swirling wine and looking elegant."

    Effie couldn''t helpughing. "Who told you that? CEOs are people, too! Besides,

    he actually loves local food. And he''s a fantastic cook himself."

    Shirley''s jaw dropped. "Wait-he can cook?"

    Effie grinned. "Yep."

    "That''s wild It''s one thing if he''s rich, but if he can cook, too? He''s the total package! I want to find someone like that for myself someday," Shirley dered, With a dramatic sigh.

    Effie''s smile faded a little. She said gently, "If the only good thing about a man is that he treats you well, you should think twice. Being good to you isn''t a real virtue-it''s just a variable. He can be good to you, but he could just as easily be good to someone else. You should look for someone who''s already amazing in his own right, with plenty of admirable qualities. Being good to you should be a given, not the reason you fall in love."

    Shirley nodded, half-understanding.

    What Effie didn''t realize was that, not far away, someone had overheard every word she just said.

    Effie picked up the takeout and headed upstairs to find Lyman.

    When she reached the top floor, the receptionist stopped her at the door. "Who are you here to see?"

 Chapter 329

    Effie and Lyman had been married for quite a while, but she''d never actually visited his office before. No wonder the receptionist didn''t recognize her.

    Trying to keep her patience, Effie said to the receptionist, "I''m here to see Mr. Etheridge."

    The receptionist squinted at Effie, sizing her up. This woman was definitely a stranger; she''d never seen her before.

    These days, men like Mr. Etheridge-handsome and wealthy-were rare gems, and women flocked to him like bees to honey. The receptionist figured Effie was just another one of those obsessed bees.

    She replied coldly, "Do you have an appointment? No appointment, no entry."

    "I don''t have one," Effie answered, "but I know Mr. Etheridge and Luther. Would you please let them know I''m here? They''ll want to see me."

    A glint of mockery shed in the receptionist''s eyes. "Oh, sure, you know Mr. Etheridge. But does he know you? Everyone whoes here says the same thing. In the few months I''ve worked here, I''ve lost count of how many people like you I''ve had to send away. Shameless."

    Effie''s eyes narrowed, irritation flickering across her face. "I''m not trying to force my way in. Can''t you just let them know I''m here?"

    "No, I can''t. If you''re so close to them, why don''t you call them yourself? Why should I do it?"

    "Isn''t that your job?" Effie snapped back.

    "My job is to serve Mr. Etheridge, not random people off the street," the receptionist replied, just as snippy.

    "Fine. I''ll call them myself."

    Effie had already tried calling before she came upstairs, but Lyman must have been busy-he hadn''t picked up. She tried Luther, but he didn''t answer either.

    She frowned, sensing the receptionist''s eyes on her. When she nced up, the receptionist was staring at her with a look of contempt. "What, giving up? Didn''t you say you knew them? Go on, call them. Otherwise, there''s no way I''m letting you in."

    Effie said, "They''re not picking up. But I really need to speak with Mr. Etheridge- can''t you just go in and tell him?"

    "Why should I? Like I said, I don''t work for you," the receptionist replied, picking up her phone and scrolling through it, not bothering to spare Effie another nce.

    The takeout box Effie was holding was getting heavy, so she tried to set it down on the reception desk so she could keep making calls. But the receptionist suddenly looked up, her tone sharp and nasty. "Got hands, don''t you? If you make a mess, you''d better clean it up."

    "You"

    "What? Run out of things to say?" the receptionist sneered and snatched the takeout bag from Effie''s hand. "Bringing this kind of stuff for Mr. Etheridge? Like he''d ever eat it. Might as well toss it straight in the trash!"

    Just then, Effie''s phone rang. It was Lyman calling.

    Effie answered and reached for the takeout bag at the same time. "Give that back."

    "No way, I''m throwing it out," the receptionist said triumphantly. "If you really know Mr. Etheridge, I''ll chop off my own head and let you use it as a footstool."

    At that moment, a sweet female voice came through the phone. "Hello, is this Effie? Lyman''s busy and can''t take your call right now."

    Effie''s brow furrowed with annoyance. "Why are you answering his phone?"

    Isabel''s lips curved into a sly smile. "Why do you think?"

 Chapter 330

    Once a seed of doubt is nted, no amount of exnation from Lyman could make it go away.

    "Put him on the phone," Effie demanded through gritted teeth.

    "I told you, he''s busy!" Isabel snapped back. Before Effie could react, Isabel hung up.

    Effie listened to the steady beep of the disconnected line, her eyes falling on the receptionist who was now dumping the noodles she''d brought into the trash. Fury red inside her.

    She prided herself on her manners, but she saw no reason to be civil to someone so tantly rude.

    Storming over, Effie pped the receptionist hard across the face. "Pick those noodles out of the trash and eat them," she ordered coldly.

    The receptionist stood frozen, clearly not expecting this outburst.

    A moment passed before she recovered, clutching her cheek and shrieking, "You crazy bitch! How dare you hit me? I''ll make you pay for that!"

    She''d seen plenty of shameless women try to catch Mr. Etheridge''s attention, but never someone like Effie-audacious enough to actuallyy hands on her.

    Effie didn''t back down, lifting her foot as the receptionist lunged at her.

    Just then, Luther appeared. The moment he saw the receptionist raise a hand against Effie, his eyes widened in shock. He rushed over and yanked the receptionist away.

    "What do you think you''re doing?!"

    The receptionist, thinking Luther was on her side, blurted, "Luther, you''re just in time! This lunatic ims she knows you all, told me to call Mr. Etheridge because she wants to meet him. I told her to make the call herself, but she wouldn''t, and then-"

    "Enough!" Luther barked. He had no idea who the real lunatic was here, but this woman clearly had no idea she''d stepped way out of line.

    "You''re fired."

    The receptionist stared at him in disbelief, eyes wide and brimming with tears. "Why? I haven''t done anything wrong!"

    Luther thought, For your own good, you''d better leave now before things get even uglier.

    "Do you even know who she is?" Luther gestured at Effie. He almost revealed her identity, but remembered Lyman''s warning and bit back the words.

    "Get out."

    The receptionist shot Effie and Luther a venomous re. "You pair of degenerates!"

    Luther turned to Effie, lowering his voice apologetically. "Ma''am, I''m sorry. I was on my lunch break, so-"

    Effie waved him off. "This has nothing to do with you."

    She paused, then looked at the receptionist again. "I told you-pick those noodles

    out of the trash and eat them before you leave."

    The receptionist gritted her teeth. "Why should I? I''ve already been fired!"

    Luther wondered if Effie had some strange fetish, making someone eat food out of the garbage. But then, he realized the noodles in Effie''s hand were gone.

    Just a moment ago, Luther had texted Lyman to say he''d seen Effie bring food for him, and Lyman had told him not to bother bringing any lunch back. Now, seeing the empty hands, he understood. The receptionist had brought this on herself.

    "She told you to eat, so eat. Otherwise, don''t me anyone if you end up cklisted in the whole industry," Luther warned.

    Effie wasn''t usually like this, but the receptionist''s inexplicable rudeness had pushed her too far.

    At that moment, Isabel emerged from the back, stopping short when she saw Effie.

    The receptionist, voice quivering with indignation, rushed to Isabel. "Mrs. Etheridge, you have to help me! Luther and some crazy woman are bullying me. I was just following your orders, keeping all those tacky women outside, not letting them see Mr. Etheridge..."

 Chapter 331

    A flicker of panic shed in Isabel''s eyes. She clenched her jaw and snapped at the receptionist, "What are you talking about? I have no idea what you mean!"

    The receptionist froze, staring at Isabel in shock.

    "But... didn''t you just say "

    Isabel cut her off in a fluster, "Enough! If you want to get yourself in trouble, fine. But don''t drag me down with you."

    With that, Isabel turned, ready to make a hasty escape.

    Effie seized Isabel''s wrist, her voice cold and sharp. "Not so fast. You haven''t exined why you answered Lyman''s call."

    Isabel''s gaze darted away. Why had she answered Lyman''s phone? The answer was simple: she wanted to annoy Effie.

    But of course, Isabel wouldn''t admit that out loud.

    She put on an innocent look, ncing at Effie and then down at the hand gripping her arm. "You''re hurting me."

    "Let go of her! Keep your hands off Mrs. Etheridge!" The receptionist, red with anger, rushed forward. But before she could reach them, Luther stepped in and calmly lifted her away by the cor, as if she weighed nothing.

    "Luther, you''re helping the wrong person. You''ll regret this!" the receptionist protested.

    Luther just looked at her, exasperated. This idiot¡ªshe''d regret her words soon enough, once she realized who was really in the wrong.

    "Mrs. Etheridge? Isabel, start exining. Now." Effie''s eyes narrowed, a dangerous glint shing in them.

    Luther could hardly believe his eyes. He''d always thought Effie was harmless, like a gentlemb-turns out she had quite a bite.

    Isabel knew she couldn''t wriggle out of this. Backed into a corner, she braced herself and said, "She misunderstood. She thought I was Lyman''s fianc¨¦e-l never said I was."

    The receptionist''s jaw dropped. Was Isabel even listening to herself?

    True, Isabel hadn''t actually said anything directly; but she''d certainly led her on. Otherwise, why would the receptionist have mistaken Isabel for Mrs. Etheridge?

    "That''s not true! You-"

    "You what? I never imed anything of the sort. Don''t you dare put words in my mouth."

    Finally, the receptionist realized it¡ªshe''d been yed by Isabel from the start.

    Fuming, she lunged at Isabel and the two women devolved into a shouting, shoving match.

    Luther just shook his head at the spectacle. He had no ns to intervene¡ª instead, he led Effie away toward Lyman''s office.

    As soon as they opened the door, a fresh, clean scent-like expensive shower gel -greeted them.

    Lyman, who''d been anxiously watching the door since he heard Effie mighte up, immediately stood and strode toward her, beaming. "Honey-"

    He reached out, wanting to pull Effie into his arms, but suddenly paused. His eyes narrowed coldly at Luther. "What are you standing around for? Go make us some coffee."

    Luther caught the hint and bolted. "Right away! I''ll get the coffee."

    Once the office door closed, Lyman reached again for Effie''s hand.

    But Effie deftly sidestepped, slipping out of reach.

    Left hanging, Lyman stood there awkwardly, looking for all the world like a puppy who''d just had his treat snatched away. "Honey..."

    Effie almost melted at his pitiful tone.

    But she steeled herself, repeating silently: Don''t give in, Effie. Not yet. Not until you get to the bottom of this.

    She drew a deep breath and said coolly, "Out of nowhere, why did you take a shower?"

 Chapter 332

    "A shower?"

    Lyman quickly looked at Effie, eager to please. "Can you smell it? I used the lemongrass body wash you bought me."

    Instead of looking happier, Effie''s frown only deepened when Lyman admitted he''d just showered.

    She fixed her gaze on him. "Let me ask you, why did you need a shower?"

    Lyman froze, thrown off by her sudden change in mood. Why was she upset now?

    He tried to soften her up with a yful tone. "Honey, of course I showered for you. Luther told me you might be stopping by, so I didn''t want you catching a whiff of sweat."

    "Just sweat?" Effie pressed, her eyes narrowing. "Or were you trying to wash off something else? And why was Isabel the one who answered your phone?"

    Lyman stared,pletely lost. "Wait, what? Isabel? Who''s Isabel? She was here? Why didn''t I know?"

    "The AC was acting up this afternoon," he exined, "and I got caught up with work. By the time I noticed, I''d already broken a sweat. When I realized you wereing, I hopped in the shower so you wouldn''t have to deal with the smell."

    "Really?" Effie''s suspicion seemed to waver, if only slightly.

    "I swear!" Lyman said, holding up a hand for emphasis.

    "Then exin Isabel. Why was she in your office?"

    Lyman shook his head, utterly confused. "I honestly have no idea."

    He paused, remembering that while he was in the shower, he''d heard someone

    try the door handle, but he''d locked it from the inside so nobody could get in.

    "But you said you tried calling me-why isn''t there any record on my phone?" Lyman pulled out his phone to show her.

    Effie checked hers. Her call log showed the call.

    That was all Lyman needed to see. The pieces fell into ce instantly.

    His eyes narrowed, a dangerous glint shing across them. "I know exactly what''s going on now."

    "Luther,e in here."

    Luther entered a momentter, carrying a takeout bag from a five-star hotel.

    "From now on," Lyman instructed, "if anyone sees Isabel, stop her at the door. She''s not to enter The Etheridge Group at all."

    Well, that was that. Isabel wouldn''t just be barred from Lyman''s office-she wouldn''t even make it through the building''s front doors.

    Luther, for his part, thought this was a good idea. Isabel really was a troublemaker.

    "Understood, Mr. Etheridge. Here''s your lunch."

    "Wait a minute," Lyman said, turning to Effie. "Didn''t you say you got me some pasta?"

    Effie hesitated, ncing in Luther''s direction.

    Now everything made sense. No wonder she''d felt like someone was watching her when she was eating earlier-she''d dismissed it as her imagination, but it turned out she''d been right.

    Effie looked at Lyman. "I did buy some, but unfortunately there''s none left."

    "What do you mean, ¡®none left''? I want that pasta¡ªthe one you got for me,¡± Lyman insisted, thinking she was just teasing him.

    Luther, however, broke out in a cold sweat, like a man pulled from a river. He braced himself and confessed, "The pasta was thrown out by the receptionist, sir. Don''t worry I''ve already fired her. Mrs. Etheridge made her eat the pasta out of the trash before she left."

    Lyman gave a cold snort. "That''s too easy on her. Tell the team: cklist her from the entire industry."

    "Yes, sir..."

    Effie looked at Lyman, wanting to say something, but stopped herself.

 Chapter 333

    "Honey, is there something you want to say?" Lyman asked softly.

    Luther, standing nearby, could hardly believe his eyes. The way Lyman could switch moods was faster than flipping a page!

    Effie spoke up. "The receptionist made a mistake, yes, but she was misled by Isabel. She''s already been let go let''s just leave it at that."

    Lyman shook his head. "We can''t just let it go."

    Effie didn''t reply right away. She fixed her gaze on Lyman, unblinking.

    It was the first time Lyman had ever felt so unnerved by a woman''s stare. Testing the waters, he asked, "Sweetheart, is there something you want to say?"

    Effie arched an eyebrow at him before finally speaking. "What about Isabel? How do you n to handle her?"

    That''s when it clicked for Lyman-Effie was clever as a fox. She''d been leading him into a trap to see where he really stood on Isabel.

    "I''ll handle it as it should be handled," Lyman replied. "I''ll call the police. She trespassed into my office."

    Effie hadn''t expected him to say he''d call the police. "Isn''t that a bit harsh?"

    Lyman didn''t answer, but instead threw the question back at her, "Do you think it''s too harsh?"

    He watched her, the hint of a smile ying at his lips, eyes glinting with challenge. Since he asked, Effie saw no point in lying. "No, not at all. Someone who tries to ruin another person''s marriage deserves consequences."

    Her grandmother had always told her: when ites to marriage, never keep things bottled up. If you don''t clear the air, misunderstandings fester, creating cracks for troublemakers to slip through.

    She thought of Shepard Bagnold and Vera. Vera was cunning-she waited for her chance, ttering Shepard and stirring up trouble between him and Adriana Spencer. In the end, Vera got what she wanted.

    And even after she got Shepard, Vera didn''t stop; she did everything she could to keep him by her side. Shepard fell under her spell andpletely betrayed Adriana.

    Effie''s grandmother had seen it all-she''d watched Adriana and Shepard fight, watched Adriana eventually move out.

    That''s why her grandmother always said, "Conflicts have an expiration date. Deal with them immediately, or the silence will only make things worse. Letting things fester only deepens misunderstandings and makes everything spiral out of control."

    Her grandmother might have seemed like an ordinary old woman, with in clothes and modest manners, but there was an undeniable grace in her every gesture. She was Effie''s guiding light, the wise woman who shaped her after Effie lost her mother.

    Lyman knew how sensitive Effie was about affairs and betrayal; he also knew it was tied to what she''d been through. He wanted to give her all the reassurance she needed.

    He looked at Effie and said, ¡°This feels good."

    Effie nced at him, puzzled. "What does?"

    "Talking things through, face to face. It feels good." Lyman squeezed her hand. "Honey, we''re going to be together forever, right?"

    There was something else he wanted to ask, but the words caught in his throat.

    Effie didn''t answer directly. Instead, she said, ¡°I can''t promise you that. Feelings can change. Somest a long time, others fade quickly. No one can predict the future. But if you ever betray me, I won''t hesitate to leave."

    The word "leave" hit Lyman like a punch to the chest. He gripped her hand tighter, as if letting go would make her vanish.

    "I won''t. I would never betray you. Not ever!"

    Effie smiled softly. "You''re hungry, aren''t you? Let''s eat.¡±

    "I was actually hoping for some of that pasta you bought me," Lyman said, his tone carrying a hint of regret.

 Chapter 334

    Effie smiled. "Next time, I''ll buy it for you again. Or better yet, you cane with me and try it yourself-it''s really good."

    Lyman nodded. "Alright."

    He looked at her with a teasing glint in his eyes. "So, what brings you here today? Did you finally remember you have a husband?" His tone was yful, but there was a hint of sulking beneath it.

    Lyman had invited Effie to join him for lunch several times before, but she''d always turned him down, worrying that someone might find out about their rtionship.

    He pretty much went along with whatever Effie wanted.

    Effie nced at him, a little embarrassed. "Well... actually, I have something I need to talk to you about."

    A flicker of disappointment crossed Lyman''s face. There''s that old saying-no one visits the church unless they need something. It looked like Effie really was here because she needed a favor.

    Still, he forced a lighthearted smile. "Alright, out with it. What''s going on?"

    Effie exined the situation with Shirley''s scheming. "Honestly, I didn''t want to bother you with this, but things have gotten out of hand. Those people are just getting too bold, so I had to tell you."

    Lyman shrugged. "Don''t worry about it. I''ll have Luther take care of it."

    Effie stood up, relief washing over her. "Thank you so much. I''ll just¡ª¡±

    Before she could finish, Lyman grabbed her hand and pulled her toward him.

    Caught off guard, Effie lost her bnce and tumbled into his arms, instinctively clutching at his shirt.

    His scent-clean, fresh, and intoxicating-filled her senses. It set off a spark inside her, threatening to consume her whole.

    She found herself breathless, her heart racing, her mouth suddenly dry.

    "If you want my help," Lyman murmured, his voice low and maic as he leaned in close his

    breath warm against here Sexhis

    I''ll

    need something in return." Content.

    In that moment, Effie realized just how much of a businessman Lyman truly was. He never did anything without making sure he got something out of it.

    He drew even closer, his lips almost brushing her skin. Effie felt a jolt run up her spine, tingling all the way to her scalp. Her stomach tightened.

    Lyman inhaled deeply, drinking in her sweet scent-it reminded him of a slice of fresh orange pound cake, impossible to resist.

    Suddenly, the office door swung open. Luther strode in, holding a thick file. "Mr. Etheridge, I have an urgent document for-"

    He froze mid-sentence, his eyes wide. The words died in his throat.

    His cheeks flushed bright red as he backed out of the room in a hurry. "Sorry to interrupt. I''ll let you two have your privacy."

    As he closed the door behind him, Luther stationed himself outside, making sure no one else would disturb Lyman.

    He couldn''t help but mutter under his breath, rubbing his nose in embarrassment. "Why am I acting like some kind of... pce eunuch?"

    People at the office always joked that Luther was Lyman''s chief of staff-

    unppable, efficient, and absolutely indispensable.

    Luther thought to himself, If any other boss paid me a hundred grand a month, I''d

    make sure to be just as attentive.

    Back in the office, Effie snapped out

    of her daze. She shoved Lyman away, her cheeks burning as if she''d caught fire. Fanning her face she shot him a re.

    "This is your fault! Now Luther''s going to get the wrong idea."

    A sly smile curled at the corners of Lyman''s mouth. His dark eyes stayed fixed on her parted lips as he slipped one arm around her waist, the other hand cradling the back of her head...

 Chapter 335

    Lyman whispered, "I''m hungry."

    Before Effie could react, his lips were already on hers, stealing her breath, swallowing any protest she might have made.

    Effie let out a soft, involuntary sound, "Mm-"

    It was like a feather brushing against Lyman''s nerves-sensitive, electric. In that moment, whatever restraint he had left broke.

    He swept Effie up in his arms, slinging her over his shoulder with a sudden burst of strength.

    Dangling against him, Effie could feel the power in his body as he carried her down the hall. When they reached the lounge, Lyman kicked the door shut behind them, strode to the bed, and set her down.

    She sank into the soft mattress, trying to sit up, but Lyman was already over her, his gaze sweeping down at her flushed cheeks.

    She looked as delicate and radiant as a camellia in early spring, blooming just for him.

    Effie''s heart hammered-usually, these moments happened at night, in the safety of darkness. But now, in broad daylight, it all felt so exposed-so thrilling and a little nerve-wracking.

    Her throat felt dry, so she swallowed, unconsciously licking her lips.

    Lyman watched her intently, his eyes darkening. His voice dropped to a husky murmur. "You were the one who tempted me first..."

    "Me?" Effie managed, startled.

    But she didn''t get to say more-his mouth imed hers in a deep, lingering kiss. He treated her as if she were some exquisite treat to be savored, careful and thorough, not missing a single detail.

    He drew her close until there was no space left between them.

    Lyman''s throat bobbed as he caught his breath, and he said, halfughing, half- serious, ¡°Now I finally understand why old kings never wanted to leave their beds in the morning. No wonder they neglected their kingdoms."

    Effie lifted her hand, fair and slender, tracing a line across his chest. She poked him lightly. "You''re the one who started this."

    With a sudden twist, Lyman rolled them over so he was on top again, grinning down at her. "What do you say, one more time?"

    Effie barely had time to protest before he swept her up again, and she was swept along with him.

    And while Lyman was the one who initiated it, Effie couldn''t help but lose herself in the pleasure.

    By the time they finally stopped, Effie''s legs were trembling; she could barely stand, her arms too weak to lift.

    Lyman helped her dress, buttoning her shirt with gentle fingers.

    She shot him a look. "This is all your fault. How am I supposed to go to work like this?"

    He smiled carried her to the sofa, and settled her gently among the cushions. "Then don''t go. I''ll have Luther call Irving Butler and say you''re out with me on business today."

    Effie wanted to protest, but the truth was, she could barely walk. She sighed and gave in.

    Lyman smoothed her hair like he

    was calming a child. "Be good. Wait

    here for me. When I''m done, we''ll

    home early-and pick up

    Grandma on the way."

    Effie nodded.

    She nced around. "I''m going to be bored out of my mind."

    Lyman gestured to the wall lined with bookshelves. "Help yourself."

    Effie grinned. ¡°Mr. Etheridge, don''t tell me all these books are just for show?"

    His eyes glinted with amusement. "Maybe."

    She picked up a book at random, flipping through the pages.

    Suddenly, she froze.

    Scrawled in the margins were Lyman''s notes-bold, sweeping handwriting, every stroke sharp and confident.

    Just reading his words, she felt as if he were standing right there beside her, exining his thoughts, a touch of arrogancecing his untamed style.

    Effie nced at the shelves, guessing that maybe this was just the one book he''d annotated close at hand, easy to reach. The others might be untouched.

 Chapter 336

    Effie stood up, reaching for a book on a higher shelf.

    She picked one that was just out of reach. Undeterred, she jumped, fingers grazing the spine, and managed to snatch the book-only to lose her bnce and topple backward.

    But the pain she braced for never came. Instead, she found herself pressed up against something solid and warm¡ªa wall of muscle, not floorboards.

    Turning her head, she saw Lyman.

    His brows were drawn together, worry etched into his handsome face. "Are you alright?" he asked.

    The setting sun nted through the window, casting golden light across Lyman''s features. One half of his face was bathed in sunlight, sharp and striking, while the other half lingered in shadow, unexpectedly gentle.

    Effie stared, momentarily spellbound. It was as if God Himself had sculpted this man, and then decided He couldn''t possibly do any better.

    How could anyone be this good-looking?

    "I-I''m fine..." she stammered.

    Lyman gently set her down on the sofa. ¡°If there''s anything you want to readter, just tell me," he said softly.

    He''d been watching her the whole time. The moment she started to fall, his eyes went wide and he dashed over in a heartbeat.

    Thank God he was quick; otherwise, Effie could''ve gotten hurt. Even now, his heart was still pounding.

    Effie tried to wave off his concern. "Alright, alright. I promise, no more risky moves. Go finish what you were doing."

    Lyman nodded. ¡°Okay."

    But as he walked away, he couldn''t help but nce back at her every now and then, still worried. He caught himself and chuckled, shaking his head. When did he start acting like a babysitter?

    Finally, his work was done. He stood, stretched, and walked over to Effie. "Come on, let''s go home."

    Effie hurriedly snapped her book shut and nodded, "Yeah, let''s go."

    When they got back to her grandmother''s ce, they found her already packed- just a small travel bag sitting by the door.

    Effie understood immediately: her grandmother''s talk of moving in with them had just been a polite gesture. She never really nned to leave her own home behind.

    "Grandma, why''d you only pack so little?" Effie asked, feigning innocence.

    Her grandmother''s eyes flickered. "Oh, I don''t have much to take. Just grabbed a few things to change into, that''s all.¡±

    Effie smiled gently. "Grandma, if you ever want toe back here-even just for a visit I''lle with you. I promise."

    She could see how much her grandmother loved this house. It was the ce she and Grandpa had shared for decades. No wonder she was reluctant to leave.

    Her grandmother nodded, eyes soft. "Alright."

    Later that evening, the three of them went out for dinner. Halfway through the meal, Grandma excused herself saying she needed the restroom. Effie escorted her outside-there were no restrooms in the dining area, so guests had to use the ones down the hall.

    While waiting, Effie pulled out her phone to pass the time with a quick game.

    She''d been ying nts vs.

    Zombies since college, beating every level again and again. Each time she defeated the final boss, she''d start over, relishing the simple, mindless fun.

    Mitchell always teased her for it, iming her gaming tastes were boring.

    But Effie didn''t care. Games were

    antea

    supposed to be rxing. Mitchell, on the other hand, yedpetitive shooters, and whenever he lost a match he''d spend the rest of the day sulking and cursing at his teammates.

    She much preferred her way-something easy, something that made her smile.

    Suddenly, a mocking voice rang out behind her. "Well, well, look who it is."

 Chapter 337

    "Oh, it''s you, sis. Honestly, only someone as nostalgic as you would still bother with this game."

    Effie didn''t even need to turn around to know who it was.

    Not that she wanted to respond.

    But Suzan wasn''t about to let her off so easily.

    Suzan stepped right in front of Effie, blocking her view. "Why are you always so childish?"

    Effie looked up, fixing Suzan with a cold stare. "Get lost."

    Suzan leaned in close to Effie''s ear, whispering so only the two of them could hear, "You know, it''s because you''re so immature and lousy at making people like you-that''s why Mitchell left you."

    "Are you quite finished?" Effie''s gaze never wavered, her face unmoved, as if Suzan''s words hadn''t touched her at all. "Seriously, what have you been eating? Your breath is absolutely rancid."

    Suzan red at her, looking like she was ready to tear Effie apart. "Shut your mouth!"

    Effie just sneered. "Oh, so you get to insult everyone else, but no one''s allowed to talk back to you? That''s rich."

    Just then, her grandmother came out of the bathroom.

    Seeing Suzan cornering Effie, she spun on her heel and ducked back inside.

    When she reappeared, she was wielding an old mop, dark and grimy, reeking of something foul.

    She brandished it at Suzan. "Move aside. Good dogs don''t block the hallway." "You old bat-!"

    Suzan''s angry retort died in her throat as she recognized Effie''s grandmother. Her eyes darted, and a new idea shed across her face.

    Clutching her stomach, she crouched down with a dramatic groan, her face

    twisted in pain. "Ow, ow! Someone''s picking on a pregnant woman!"

    They were in a blind spot for the security cameras¡ªno matter what Effie or Mrs. Spencer said, there''d be no proof!

    That realization made Suzan smirk with satisfaction.

    "Grandma, hand me the mop," Effie said firmly.

    Suzan was after her. Even if Suzan tried to drag her grandmother into this, Effie was determined to protect her.

    But her grandmother understood and clung tightly to the mop. "No. I''m not giving you this."

    Effie looked at her helplessly.

    Grandma was too old-there was no way she could wrestle the mop from her without risking her falling. One wrong move and her grandmother could get hurt, and the doctor had warned them about her brittle bones. Another fall could be disastrous.

    Suzan watched them, a smug little smile curling her lips. So much for Effie pretending not to care-look at her now, panicking. Just like Mom said, you have to go straight for the weakness.

    If you''ve got Effie by her soft spot, what''s she going to do? Suzan thought, certain she''d finally won this time.

    Footsteps echoed down the hallway, and Suzan''s anticipation grew.

    When she saw that it was Mitchell approaching, her confidence soared.

    Clutching her stomach, Suzan put on her most pitiful expression and whimpered, "Mitchell, they''re bullying me. My stomach hurts so much..."

    Mitchell''s attention snapped instantly to Suzan. Her baby bump was impossible to miss, and thest thing he wanted was for anything to happen to her.

    He didn''t even nce at Effie or her grandmother as he snapped, voice tense, "Who? Who dared to hurt you?!"

    Suzan nearly gloated aloud at his reaction. This was going better than she''d hoped.

    She pointed directly at Effie and her grandmother. "It was them! Look, they''re still holding the mop!"

 Chapter 338

    Effie and her grandmother let go of their mops at almost the exact same moment.

    When Mitchell spotted them, he froze for a split second before reaching out a hand to Suzan. "Here, let me help you up."

    Suzan looked at him cautiously, unsure of his intentions. Still, under Mitchell''s steady gaze, she reached out her hand.

    Mitchell gripped her firmly and pulled her up from the floor in one swift motion. "You okay? Can you walk?"

    She had been pretending to be hurt, but the moment she heard Mitchell''s voice, her heart started racing uncontrobly, and her mind went nk.

    Everyone always thought she schemed her way into Mitchell''s life because of his status. But they were all wrong-it wasn''t like that at all.

    She had fallen for Mitchell the very first time they met, even though she knew he was Effie''s boyfriend. That didn''t stop her. She dove in headfirst, learned from Vera''s calcted moves, and slowly but surely, won Mitchell over.

    "I''m fine," she mumbled.

    "Good. Then let''s get out of here," Mitchell said, guiding her away.

    Suzan was stunned. By the time she realized what was happening, Mitchell had practically lifted her off her feet-her toes barely grazed the ground.

    She nced up at him, confused. "Mitchell, why? Why aren''t you letting me settle things with Effie?"

    Mitchell''s gaze darkened slightly. "Do you know who brought Effie and the others here tonight?"

    Suzan shook her head, but then a thought struck her. Her expression changed in an instant.

    She looked at Mitchell. "Wait... was it Lyman?"

    "That''s right," Mitchell replied. "I saw Lyman outside the private room just now-he was on the phone. He''ll be heading over to Effie and the others any minute."

    "Mypany''s already in shambles because of Lyman. You''re not nning on making things even worse, are you?"

    Suzan pressed her lips together and shook her head.

    She was going to marry Mitchell someday, which meant everything that belonged to him would be hers. Thest thing she wanted was more trouble for hispany.

    Effie watched as Mitchell and Suzan disappeared down the hallway, her eyes darkening. She muttered under her breath, "Seriously, what''s wrong with those two? Are they out of their minds, or just cursed?"

    "Effie, are you alright?" her grandmother asked, clearly worried that Effie hadn''t moved on.

    She was concerned that seeing her ex and the other woman together-even if Effie acted indifferent-would stir up painful emotions.

    Effie shrugged it off. "I''m fine. Just ran into a couple of lunatics, that''s all."

    Seeing Effie so unfazed, her

    Other finally rxed. "Come

    on, let''s go. Lyman must''ve been waiting forever in the private room."

    They were just about to head back when Lyman came walking toward them down the hallway.

    Relief washed over Lyman when he saw they were both safe. "You two were gone so long, I started to worry something had happened."

    Effie teased him, "If you''re that worried, maybe you should just stay glued to my side. That way, you''ll always know where I am."

    Lyman grinned. "Or I could just shrink you down and keep you in my pocket."

    "Deal," Effie said, and they bothughed.

    Effie''s grandmother watched their easy banter and finally let out a breath she didn''t know she was holding.

    Suddenly, Effie''s phone buzzed-a new message had juste through.

 Chapter 339

    Grandma lost her footing and nearly tumbled to the ground.

    Thankfully, Effie was right by her side, quick as a sh to catch her. "Are you okay, Grandma?" she asked, worry etched in her voice.

    The close call sent a chill down Effie''s spine. She''d been truly frightened; the thought of Grandma falling made her heart race, and the scare still lingered in her chest.

    Grandma pressed her lips together and shook her head. "I''m alright. I just got a little too worked up, and now my legs feel weak.¡±

    Effie paused, then broke into a smile.

    It was true¡ªshe''d beenpletely stunned moments ago, watching her usuallyposed Grandma emerge from the kitchen wielding that grimy old mop. Effie had barely recognized the woman she thought she knew so well.

    Grandma gave a sheepish smile, but it faded quickly.

    She gripped Effie''s hand tightly, her expression earnest. ¡°Effie, people can push me around if they want, but no one is allowed to hurt you. You''re the one your mother and I love most, and we''ll protect you for as long as we can. Unless I''m truly unable to move, I''ll always stand in front of you, no matter what."

    Effie felt a wave of emotion swell inside her-her eyes stung, and her nose prickled with the threat of tears.

    She tried to reply, "Grandma, I..."

    But some words just wouldn''te out, not when she was facing her grandmother directly. It felt awkward¡ªmaybe that was just the way reserved people were.

    "Hm? Effie, did you want to say something?" Grandma noticed her lips move and thought Effie had spoken.

    Effie shook her head, silently promising herself she''d do even more for Grandma from now on.

    "You must be hungry. Let''s go eat," Grandma suggested.

    "Okay."

    When they entered the private dining room, Lyman had already ordered. Their timing was perfect-the food arrived as soon as they sat down.

    Lyman had chosen all of Effie and Grandma''s favorite dishes.

    He served them both, then leaned in toward Effie and murmured, "Did something happen earlier?"

    Effie shook her head, deflecting. "These honey-zed chicken wings smell amazing. They taste even better."

    Lyman could tell she was dodging his question, but he didn''t want Grandma to notice, so he yed along. "Yeah, they''re really good. This dish was trending online for a while, but Elliott''s Cozy Room didn''t have it on the menu since they usually serve more traditional country-style meals. I asked the chef to make it special today."

    Effie grinned as she ate. "Lucky me, getting to try the exclusive version."

    "If you like it, I''ll ask them to make it again next time," Lyman said.

    "I''d like that," Effie replied.

    Meanwhile, in another private room, Vinson Elliott was having dinner with Randel and a few others when he suddenly felt a tickle in his nose and sneezed loudly. "Who''s thinking

    about me?"

    Randell shot back, "Why are you so sure someone''s missing you? Maybe

    someone''s cursing you instead.¡±

    Vinson rolled his eyes. "Oh, shut up."

    At that moment, Effie''s phone buzzed again.

    And again¡ªseveral times in quick session.

    Lyman noticed and nced over. "Everything alright?"

    Effie smiled wryly. "No idea. Usually, I don''t check my phone during meals, but I

    guess I''ll make an exception."

    She pulled out her phone and saw a number she didn''t recognize, though something about it felt familiar.

    She tapped the message and read:

    [I checked just now. There are no

    security cameras in that area-it''s a blind spot. I just did you a huge favor. How do you n to repay me?]

    [If you don''t reply, I''ll take it as a yes.]

    [Meet me at the usual ce.]

    [Why aren''t you answering, Effie? Answer me!]

 Chapter 340

    Effie finally remembered why that phone number looked so familiar. It was almost identical to Mitchell''s old number, except for thest two digits.

    Was Mitchell some kind of creep? He knew she''d blocked him, so he got a new number just to keep bothering her¡ªand even picked one that was nearly the same. Was he hoping she''d notice, or was he just desperate for attention?

    Disgust twisted her stomach. Same ce as always? Was he out of his mind?

    The message left her nauseous. She''d been enjoying her meal, but just reading those words made her lose her appetite.

    Lyman noticed the shift in her mood right away. He gently ced a hand on her shoulder and asked softly, "What''s wrong?"

    "It''s nothing," Effie replied.

    She''d nned to just block Mitchell''s new number and be done with it.

    But then she remembered something her grandmother had said. After a moment''s thought, she handed her phone to Lyman and said, "I wasn''t nning to hide it. Honestly, it''s just a trivial annoyance to me, but I can''t believe someone could be this gross."

    When Lyman realized what was going on, his eyes darkened, and a dangerous glint shed across his face.

    He clenched his fists, jaw tight. "If he wants to meet, then let''s meet."

    Effie stared at him in surprise, taken aback by his calmness. Was he really that easygoing about it, or was he already nning something behind the scenes? Almost as if he could read her mind, Lyman reached out his hand, silently asking for her phone.

    Puzzled but trusting, Effie handed it over.

    Lyman typed a single word in reply: "Okay."

    After dinner, Lyman turned to Effie''s grandmother. "We''re going out for a bit. Thought we''d spend some time together," he said, encouraging her to rest at home.

    Her grandmother smiled, clearly pleased to see their rtionship growing.

    On the way out, Lyman asked, "So where exactly is this ''same ce''?"

    Effie''s face tightened. "I think... it''s the amusement park where I first met him. We met in the haunted house."

    Back then Effie had been fearless. While

    she

    eryone else screamed, s walked through the whole thing t

    with

    a calm, expressionless face.

    That was what drew Mitchell to her in the first ce.

    After they started dating, it became a tradition-they''d return to that amusement park every year.

    But she''d heard the ce was about to be shut down. Business had dried up, and the owner couldn''t keep it running anymore.

    Yet when Effie arrived, she was surprised to find the amusement park still standing. The rides had been upgraded, and everything looked newer, brighter.

    A flicker of confusion crossed her eyes.

    This ce wasn''t in the city center

    Visitor numbers had dropped ofe

    long ago. The previous owner had been looking to sell, desperate to cut his losses.

    Who would be crazy enough to buy this ce and invest in renovations? Didn''t they care about making money?

    As they parked and started walking toward the gates, a staff member hurried over, eyes wide in shock at the sight of Lyman.

    "Sir-you''re the owner?"

    Lyman nodded slightly.

    Effie''s jaw dropped as she turned to him. So Lyman was the one who''d bought the park?

    "Why would you buy this ce?" she blurted out.

    After breaking up with Mitchell, she''d stopped paying attention to anything connected to him.

    Lyman squeezed her hand, his gaze gentle. "This amusement park means something special to me."

 Chapter 341

    "Special meaning? What kind of special meaning?" Effie couldn''t help but ask.

    Lyman looked at her as if weighing his words, then swallowed them back. "Maybe I''ll tell you next time, if we get another chance."

    She wanted to press him-why not just say it now?-but the question died on her lips.

    Maybe everyone has secrets they''d rather keep to themselves.

    Just then, the amusement park manager approached Lyman. "Mr. Etheridge, the park''s been reserved for a private party tonight. Only someone named Effie is allowed in."

    Effie stepped forward. "That''s me. Do you need to see my ID?"

    The manager''s mouth twitched as he nced between Effie and Lyman, his mind racing. Was he about to witness some messy love triangle drama? This could be even more of a disaster than the haunted house attraction his boss insisted on keeping!

    Lyman asked, "Want to check?"

    "Oh, no need!" The manager waved his hands, flustered. "Boss''s friends wouldn''t lie."

    It was odd, really. After buying the park, the owner only insisted on keeping the haunted house. Everything else could be upgraded or changed. You''d think he was attached to the ce, but he never showed up again.

    The staff figured he''d forgotten about them. Everyone just muddled along, collecting paychecks and not expecting much-well aware the park might go under again and force them all to find new jobs.

    But now...

    The boss was finally here!

    The manager could barely contain his excitement. He couldn''t wait to spread the

    news.

    Hand in hand, Lyman and Effie walked to the entrance of the haunted house. Suddenly, Effie turned to him. "Are you scared?"

    He replied, "What about you? Are you?"

    She shook her head. "Not at all."

    A faint smile tugged at the corners of Lyman''s mouth. In his mind, a memory flickered: a brave, expressionless face that now ovepped perfectly with Effie''s. "Let''s go, then."

    They stepped inside. It was exactly

    as she remembered-same props, sameyout. Only now, the air conditioning was cranked up to freezing, and the asional gust from a fan,bined with the dim lighting and spooky music, sent chills crawling up your spine.

    Effie walked coolly ahead, as if she were just browsing at the farmer''s market.

    Suddenly, she stopped and said, "In a moment, a bloody head drops from above right here."

    No sooner had she spoken than a gruesome, blood-soaked head fell from the ceiling, eyes and mouth twitching eerily.

    Anyone faint of heart would have screamed or bolted on the spot.

    But Effie didn''t flinch. Lyman was equally unruffled.

    Effie nced at Lyman. For some reason, he looked strangely familiar.

    "You..."

    Lyman looked at her with a hint of anticipation, as if waiting for her to remember something.

    But Effie shook her head. No way. If she''d met Lyman before-someone this devastatingly

    handsome-there''s no chance she''d forget. She must be imagining things.

    "Come on," she said.

    They continued on, passing all

    manner of ghouls and monsters

    Neither of them reacted, calm

    ever Soon, they were nearly at the end-and still no sign of Mitchell.

    Did she have the wrong ce? Maybe Mitchell hadn''t meant this haunted house after all.

    Just then, they heard footsteps. Mitchell, hearing them approach, peeked out from

    a corner. As soon as he saw them, he rushed out.

    "Effie!"

 Chapter 342

    But when he saw who it was, Mitchell froze. His face twisted as if he''d just bitten into something foul.

    "Why is it you?" Mitchell''s eyes darkened, his voice cold.

    Lyman smirked at him. "Looks like you haven''t been busy enoughtely, since you''ve got the nerve to make a move on my wife."

    Mitchell suddenly understood everything.

    "You''re despicable! You used Effie''s phone to message me, didn''t you?" Mitchell spat out the words, jaw clenched.

    Lyman regarded him with a look of mild contempt. Even now, Mitchell was fixated on the wrong thing-how utterly foolish.

    No wonder hispany had started spiraling the moment Effie left. Without her, it was unlikely the business would have ever gotten off the ground in the first ce.

    Back when that tiny agency started gaining traction-enough topete with the Etheridge Group''s design department-Lyman had actually admired them. It took him a while to realize that what he''d really admired was Effie, not the others.

    In the early days, Effie had been a force of nature, helping thepany rise fast. Maybe Mitchell saw her strength as a threat; he''d used a few tricks to push her out of the spotlight, keeping her behind the scenes. That''s when things began to unravel at thepany, but Mitchell had been too blind to see it.

    Now, with Effie gone, Lyman could crush Mitchell''s business with a single finger. He turned to Mitchell. "I''m warning you. Effie is my wife¡ª"

    Before Lyman could finish, Mitchell charged at him, shouting, "No! Effie belongs to me-she always has! You''re the one who stole her! After all these years together, you think she''d just walk away? She''s only upset with me right now-that''s all! You''re just a rebound! One day she''ll realize how she feels ande back to me

    He didn''t get to finish. Lyman''s fist crashed into his jaw, snapping his head sideways. The sharp taste of blood flooded Mitchell''s mouth.

    Damn Lyman-he didn''t hold back at all!

    Fine. If that''s how he wanted it, Mitchell wouldn''t hold back either.

    "Damn it! kill you!" Mitchell yelled

    the punch of his own. H d to believe he''d lose en et

    a ck belt, after all.

    was

    At first, Mitchell managed to block a few of Lyman''s hits, but it didn''tst. Lyman was too fast, too well-rounded; he was quick, and he knew how to defend. Mitchell had gone all out from the start, and his strength faded fast. Soon, he was exhausted, barely managing to defend himself as Lyman knocked him to the ground.

    What stung most was that Lyman stood over him,pletely unscathed.

    Just then, Effie stepped out from the shadows. "Are you alright?" she asked. Mitchell''s heart leapt she still cared about him!

    But his hope died as he realized she wasn''t looking at him at all. Effie walked right past him¡ªstraight to Lyman.

    She nced at Lyman''s hand,

    concern etched on her face. Gently,

    she lifted his hand and examined it.

    "You hit him so hard-your knuckles are red. Does it hurt?" she

    murmured, her voice tender.

    After all, every action has an equal reaction. If Lyman hit Mitchell that hard, it must have hurt him too.

    She didn''t spare Mitchell a single nce her whole focus was on Lyman.

    Lyman basked in her concern, his pride thoroughly satisfied.

    "Effie..."

 Chapter 343

    Mitchell was convinced Effie was just putting on an act. He remembered times

    when he was in a rare good mood and would peel fruit for her, only to identally nick his finger. Back then, Effie would fuss over him for ages, genuinely worried.

    So how could she possibly stay this cold when he was standing here in such a miserable state?

    He tried to y on her sympathy. "Effie, it really hurts," he said, voice soft and pitiful.

    Atst, Effie reacted. She shot him a frosty nce and replied, "If it hurts, go see a doctor. Don''t just stand in the doorway blocking everyone."

    Mitchell''s face tightened in disbelief. He never expected to hear words like that from Effie.

    "Effie, I know you''re just pretending," he pleaded. "You still care about me, don''t you? I can tell you''re just acting angry. I get it now-I finally know how miserable I am without you. Please, forgive me. Let''s start over, okay?"

    His voice grew thick, eyes rimmed red as if he might break down any minute. "I really can''t live without you! Do all these years we shared mean nothing to you? Do they really matter less than the few months you''ve spent with him?"

    Lyman''s grip on Effie''s hand tightened abruptly.

    Effie nced at Lyman, offering him a small, reassuring smile, as if tofort him and ease his worry.

    Then she turned to Mitchell. Her tone was calm, but her words were sharp. "The depth of a rtionship has nothing to do with how long itsts. You don''t need years to prove you love someone. If you''d really loved me as much as you say, you wouldn''t have fooled around behind my back. And don''t give me that nonsense about ''just having fun'' or ''needing to unwind''-like it''s some kind of game. I''m a living, breathing person with feelings, not some disposable thing you can toss aside when you''re bored!"

    "I can''t ept someone who betrayed me and our rtionship, only toe back and im it wasn''t on purpose. You make me feel dirty, Mitchell. You disgust me."

    "Even if I hadn''t chosen Lyman, even if I''d picked someone else, I still wouldn''t have chosen you. You make my skin crawl."

    Her eyes were icy, her gaze so cold it could freeze him in ce. "This is thest time I''m saying this: we''re over, so have the decency to move on. Stop with all these pathetic little stunts."

    "And another thing-don''t even think about going after my grandmother. If you do, I won''t let you get away with it."

    Mitchell looked utterly deted, like a rooster after a losing fight. He may have heard every word Effie said, but he refused to ept it.

    But Effie no longer cared whether he epted it or not. Her mind was made up, and nothing would change that.

    A smart person never goes back to chew old grass.

    ¡°Effie, are you really sure?" Mitchell tried onest time, locking eyes with her as if hoping for a miracle.

    "I''m sure," Effie replied, voice steady.

    Mitchell took a deep breath, clenching his jaw. "Fine. I''m calling the police. I''m reporting Lyman for assault!"

    Lyman''s eyes narrowed. He stared Mitchell down. "Are you sure you want to do that?"

    Mitchell scoffed, trying to sound braver than he felt. "What, are you threatening me? You hit me first. Even if the police show up, you can''t talk your way out of this."

    Lyman shrugged. "Suit yourself."

    vel

    Mitchell''s heart pounded with nerves he couldn''t shake the feeling Lyman was plotting something-but he refused to let Effie see him back down.

    Gritting his teeth, Mitchell called the police.

    Effie and Lyman grabbed a couple of chairs and sat outside the door, watching as

    Mitchell sprawled dramatically on the ground, ying dead.

    The police arrived quickly. After listening to Mitchell''sint, they asked to see the security footage.

    But the manager just shook his head

    and

    forained, "The cameras near

    the haunted house have be

    down

    days. There''s nothing recorded."

 Chapter 344

    The officers didn''t buy it and insisted on checking the footage.

    To their surprise, just as the manager had imed, there wasn''t a single useful frame-the cameras had captured nothing at all.

    Lyman shook his head. "Next time, don''t waste police resources. Filing false reports is a crime, you know."

    He stood his ground, insisting he hadn''tid a finger on Mitchell. And even if he had, Mitchell started it.

    Mitchell was livid. He''d honestly thought this time he''d finally get justice, but things had turned out the opposite.

    "Lyman, do you even have a shred of decency left?" Mitchell ground out, ring at Lyman with enough intensity to burn holes through him.

    Lyman just shrugged. "Not anymore. Lucky for you, you never had any to begin with. Consider it a gift."

    "You-!"

    "Officer, if there are no witnesses and no evidence, I''m free to go, right?"

    The officer nodded. "You''re free to leave."

    Lyman didn''t waste another moment. He left, Effie following close behind.

    Neither of them spared a nce back, while Mitchell stared daggers at their retreating figures.

    Not long after, Lyman''s phone buzzed. It was Fenton calling.

    He put him on speaker. ¡°Spit it out. If you''ve got something to say, say it."

    Fenton snorted. "Well, well, look at you-turning into a deadbeat, huh?"

    Lyman genuinely hadn''t expected the news to spread so fast. It had barely happened, and Fenton already knew.

    "Reception''s bad here, gotta run," Lyman replied.

    Right then, a woman''s high-pitched giggle drifted through the speaker, so

    suggestive that even Lyman felt his ears burn.

    "You sound busy," Lyman said dryly. "I''ll let you get back to it."

    Before Fenton could reply, Lyman hung up.

    Fenton kicked the sofa in frustration. "Damn it! Who''s got the bad reception now?

    If the signal''s so bad, why could he still hear that?"

    He nced over at Annabel, who was sprawled on the floor in a drunken heap, looking like she''d melted into the carpet.

    This woman, he fumed inwardly, was out clubbing every night, drinking herself senseless under the guise of work, never sparing him a thought.

    Tonight, she''d barely made it out of the bar before copsing on the sidewalk, A few unsavory characters had started circling, but luckily, Fenton had found her and brought her home-otherwise, things could''ve gotten ugly.

    Suddenly, Annabel''s eyes snapped open. She nced around blearily, mumbling,

    "This ce looks familiar..."

    Fenton snorted to himself. Of course it did this used to be their love nest.

    Then Annabel muttered, "Looks just

    like that bastard''s ce. Ugh, why am I still dreaming about him? Why can''t dream about someone handsome for once? God, why do I keep seeing that jerk in my dreams?"

    Fenton''s temper red. Who was she calling a jerk? Him? Seriously?

    He''d done her a favor, and now he was the bad guy?

    If he''d known this would happen, he''d have left her there.

    Suddenly, Annabel lurched in his direction. "Hey there, handsome..."

    Fenton straightened up, feeling a little pleased. At least she had some taste.

    He was about to say something when Annabel suddenly gagged. "Ugh... Why do you look just like my disgusting ex-husband? I think I''m gonna be sick... Ugh..." "Annabel!" Fenton roared, nearly bursting a blood vessel. "Not on my carpet!"

    After dry heaving, Annabel finally seemed to settle down, then promptly fell asleep right there on the floor.

    ...

    The next morning, Effie was jolted awake by a shrill ringtone.

    She fumbled for her phone, but before she could see who was

    calling Lyman snatched it from her,

    clearly annoyed. "Who the hell is

    calling this early and ruining my

    sleep? I''m turning it off."

    Lyman hadn''t slept well and was in a foul mood.

    Effie protested, "Wait, I think I saw¡ª"

 Chapter 345

    Effie quickly stopped Lyman and snatched back her phone.

    "Annabel?"

    Annabel''s voice was barely a whisper, as if she was terrified someone else might overhear. "Effie, help me! I don''t have any clothes on. Can you bring me

    something to wear? The address is..."

    Effie''s heart skipped a beat. No clothes? Did that mean Annabel was¡ª

    She jotted down the address while anxiety crept into her voice. "Annabel, should I call the police? Are you in trouble? Did someone hurt you?"

    A flicker of embarrassment crossed Annabel''s face, though she tried to sound casual. ¡°No, no, don''t call the police. It''s not like that. It''s just... someone I know."

    Effie was silent for a moment, listening to Annabel''s evasive tone. At this point, she couldn''t even tell whether Annabel had taken advantage of someone else, or the other way around.

    ¡°Alright, I''ll send someone with your clothes."

    "No, please. I need you toe yourself. Please, Effie.¡±

    Effie sighed. "Fine. I''m on my way."

    As soon as Effie hung up, she started getting dressed.

    Lyman stood up too, and wrapped his arms around her waist, resting his head on her shoulder. Even through the thin fabric, Effie could feel the heat radiating from him.

    She nced nervously at his strong arms around her waist and swallowed hard. "Stop messing around. I need to bring Annabel her clothes."

    Lyman said calmly, "You don''t need to. That address is her ex-husband''s ce."

    "Her... ex-husband?!" Effie''s eyes widened in shock.

    Wait a second-was Annabel trying to get back together with him?

    But that didn''t make sense. If she really wanted that, why would she want Effie to bring her clothes?

    Lyman dropped another bombshell. "Annabel''s ex-husband is Fenton. They had a whirlwind marriage, then split up for reasons none of us ever figured out."

    Effie''s jaw dropped. This was almost too much to take in all at once.

    "That exins it! No wonder Luther said you brought Annabel some antacids that day, and then I felt like someone was lurking around, watching us. Then Mr. Fenton showed up-so that''s what was really going on..."

    "The medicine was actually from Fenton. He just used my name. To be honest, Fenton''s never gotten over Annabel. He''s the one who wants to patch things up. Annabel, on the other hand, alwaysins about him, but whenever he''s in trouble, she''s the first to show up. I honestly have no idea what''s going on between those two." Lyman shook his head.

    Usually, Lyman never gossiped about other people''s private lives; he believed these things were none of their business.

    But this time, he figured Effie ought to know, otherwise the way she stood there, mouth agape, made her look a little foolish.

    "But if I don''t bring her clothes, Annabel will be mad at me."

    "Do you know why she didn''t ask her assistant, but asked you?" Lyman pressed. "Because she knows if you show up, Fenton won''t dare try anything. He''ll have to let her go."

    Effie licked her lips, thinking. "Then that''s all the more reason for me to go."

    "You don''t get it. Men and women think differently. If she wanted me to bring her clothes, it''d mean she didn''t want anything to do with Mr. Fenton right now. We should respect her wishes," Effie insisted.

    Lyman considered this and realized she had a point. He finally agreed to take Effie to deliver the clothes.

    When they arrived, Annabel was on the phone, wrapped in a bedsheet and trying to sneak out undetected.

    But the moment she opened the door, she found Fenton standing there, arms, folded across his chest a half-amused, half-exasperated smile on his face. "What''s this? You wreck my ce, and now you think you can just slip away?"

    Annabel put on her best innocent act. "You''re awyer, not a gangster. Stop

    making things up!"

 Chapter 346

    To her dismay, Fenton was already waiting there for her. He pulled out his phone, his expression smug. "Take a look at this. Do you even realize what you''ve done? I recorded everything!"

    Annabel stared at the video on his phone. For a moment, the world spun-she absolutely refused to believe that the crazed woman in that footage was actually her.

    "This is fake! You edited it with Al or something!" she snapped, desperate to deny

    it.

    Fenton smirked. "If you think it''s fake, go ahead and have it analyzed. In fact, why not show everyone? Let''s see how they react to your little meltdown."

    "You... Don''t you dare!" Annabel stamped her foot in frustration.

    A sly glint flickered in Fenton''s eyes. "Come on, Annabel. What are you going to offer to make it up to me?"

    Before he could finish, the doorbell rang.

    Fenton scowled, clearly irritated, but an uneasy feeling crept over him-someone was here to rescue Annabel.

    While he hesitated, Annabel seized her chance. She darted toward the door, moving so fast she nearly tripped over her own feet.

    Fenton lunged, grabbing at the bedsheet wrapped around her.

    Caught off guard, Annabel felt the sheet yanked away.

    She shrieked, arms flying up to cover her chest, then her hips, frantically trying to shield herself but only seeding in exposing more.

    Furious, she stamped her foot again, grinding out, "Shut your filthy eyes!"

    Fenton just grinned, his gaze lingering. "Why so shy? It''s not like I haven''t seen it all before."

    "You-you-" Annabel''s face flushed such a deep red she could barely get the words out.

    Then, from outside the door, came Effie''s voice: "Annabel? Are you in there? I brought you some clothes."

    Hearing Effie was like hearing angels sing. In a sh, Annabel snatched the sheet from Fenton''s hand, wrapped it tightly around herself, and rushed to open the door.

    Fenton watched her retreat with a resigned shake of his head. Another wasted day.

    "Annabel, are you alright?" Effie asked, concern etched on her face.

    She''d heard Annabel scream and was worried something had happened. But

    aside from her flushed cheeks, Annabel seemed otherwise unharmed.

    Annabel''s eyes flickered with embarrassment as she remembered the scene from moments before. "I''m fine. Let''s just go."

    She practically bolted out of the apartment.

    After dropping Annabel safely at home, Effie and Lyman headed off to work.

    Effie had barely stepped into the design department when she sensed the tension in the air. Several colleagues were clustered around Shirley, voices sharp and indignant.

    Shirley, trapped in the middle, looked utterly miserable, her head bowed in silence.

    Effie made her way over and greeted Shirley.

    The others shot her frosty looks. One of them snorted, "You''ve got a lot of nerve talking to Shirley! Hypocrite!"

    Another chimed in, "Yeah! If you can''t keep your promises, don''t make them! First you dangle hope, then you snatch it away-what kind of person does that?"

    No one named names, but their words were cutting.

    Effie turned to Shirley, her brow furrowed. "What happened?"

    Shirley nced up, red-eyed and fragile as a wounded rabbit. She opened her mouth, as if to speak, but couldn''t bring herself to say anything; she just turned away, looking even more dejected.

    It was clear Shirley didn''t want to talk to Effie.

    Effie frowned, bewildered by the hostility, but she was determined to sort things out. Shirley had been her very first friend at this<ppany-they''d clicked instantly. She''d always assumed they''d stay close. Now, suddenly, everything felt uncertain.

 Chapter 347

    "Shirley, I may not know exactly what''s happened, but if it''s about your designs, you can talk to me," Effie said gently. "I''ll help you sort it out."

    The mention of "designs" hit a nerve. Shirley''s eyes reddened and she clenched her jaw. "No need," she replied, her voice tight.

    Just then, Peter called out, "Shirley, could youe here for a minute?"

    Shirley stood up quickly and made her way toward Peter. As she passed Effie¡ª whether by ident or on purpose-she bumped hard into her shoulder.

    Effie frowned, but before she could say a word, Shirley was already walking away. "What is it, Peter?" Shirley asked, her mood clearly low.

    Peter studied her pale face, his tone almost sympathetic. "See? I told you from the start, Effie''s not someone you can trust. She gave you hope, but in the end she set you up and didn''t even pay you a cent. Don''t you feel cheated?"

    Shirley bit her lip and nodded, looking miserable. "I only realize it now. It''s such a loss. She took all the credit for herself, and I didn''t get a single thing out of it. I actually thought she was a good person, but she turned out to be the worst of all!"

    Peter sighed. "You can never really know what people are like on the inside. Next time, you''ll know who to trust."

    Shirley nodded faintly. "Once bitten, twice shy. I won''t go near her again."

    "If you want, I can ask Irving to move you to another spot," Peter offered. Shirley''s response was immediate. "Yes, please. I''d really appreciate that."

    When Shirley returned to her desk, she started packing her things,pletely ignoring Effie''s attempts to speak to her-acting as if she couldn''t hear a word.

    It didn''t take long for Shirley to finish. She turned and walked away without a backward nce, leaving Effie standing there.

    But as Effie looked over, she noticed Shirley had left something behind on her desk.

    She thought about catching up to her, but when she realized what it

    was, her expression darkened. It

    was the good luck charm they''d

    picked up together at that old.

    ??

    church during their trip to the coast. Effie picked it up, her hand tightening around it.

    "Designer Bagnold, there''s a client. here who''d like you to design a piece of jewelry," the design department''s receptionist announced, poking her head through the door.

    ¡°Alright," Effie replied, forcing a polite smile onto her face as she turned toward the door.

    But as soon as she saw the client, her expression faltered. It was Suzan.

    Effie was about to sit back down, but Suzan strode toward her with a bright, eager smile. "Sis, what''s wrong? You see me and don''t even say hello?"

    Sis?

    Everyone in the office nced over, curiosity piqued. Suzan and Effie didn''t look anything alike¡ªwhy would she call Effie her sister?

    Effie''s face was stony, making it clear there was some history between them.

    Suzan didn''t give Effie a chance to brush her off. She stopped right in front of her and said, "I''m so excited to see what kind of jewelry you''ll design for me!"

    Effie''s eyes narrowed, her voice turning cold. ¡°Sorry, I''m not interested in designing anything for you."

    Suzan just shrugged. "Oh? But isn''t it the policy at Etheridge & Co. that if a client requests a designer, and they haven''t worked together before, the designer can''t refuse?"

    So she''de prepared.

    Effie didn''t bother arguing. "Fine. If you insist, let''s discuss it in the conference

    room."

    Suzan, satisfied, followed Effie without another word.

 Chapter 348

    Effie swung the door shut behind her, folding her arms across her chest as she leaned casually against the conference table. From her elevated perch, she looked down at Suzan, her gaze sharp as a knife, radiating a cold intensity.

    Suzan met Effie''s eyes and said, "Aboutst night...I really owe you. You''re the one who snapped Mitchell out of it. He came home and just broke down. I spent the whole nightforting him, but finally he saw things clearly."

    She paused, then added meaningfully, "He said he finally knows who really matters to him."

    Effie arched an eyebrow, her voice icy. "Are you done? If you''re just here to gloat, I''m sorry to disappoint you-I don''t feel a thing."

    "No, that''s not why I''m here." Suzan couldn''t stop herself from ncing down and gesturing at her belly, which was already showing¡ªshe hardly needed to say it. She was pregnant, and anyone could tell.

    "Actually, the reason I came today is because the baby''s father and grandmother want to give a gift when the baby''s born. I want it to be something special, meaningful-so I''m looking for the best designer."

    She paused, her lips curving into a mocking smile. "You used to be a designer yourself, but it''s a shame you''re cklisted."

    Suzan''s face darkened in an instant. Leave it to Effie to cut right to her sore spot.

    "Shut up!" Suzan snapped, her temper ring.

    But Effie wasn''t finished. She smirked and went on, "You know, you''re putting yourself through all this-carrying their child, doing all the hard work. Even if you don''t get credit, you should at least get some thanks. They''re letting you pick any gift for the baby you want, so it''s not like they''re short on cash..."

    She let the words hang for a beat, then tilted her head, her tone sharp as ss. "So if money''s no object, why aren''t they giving you a gift too?"

    Effie''s wordsnded like a flurry of knives, each one hitting Suzan right where it hurt most.

    The thought had crossed Suzan''s mind before, more than once.

    Pregnancy made her emotions a rollercoaster anyway, and when she dwelled on it, it was obvious-Mitchell and his family only cared about the baby, not her.

    But no matter how much it stung, she refused to let Effie see her pain.

    "What''s it to you?" Suzan shot back, her words brittle. "Why do you care so much? The baby is mine, not yours!"

    Effie shook her head, her voice taunting. "No, no-the baby belongs to the Lloyd family. You''ve got nothing."

    She paused, a spark of amusement in her eyes. "Huh, didn''t expect that to rhyme."

    "Shut up!"

    Effie''s lips curted into a sly smile as she regarded Suzan. "Suzan, honestly, don''t get it. You could be living your life in peace, but instead youe here just to get insulted by me. If you want to keep hearing it, feel free to stick around."

    Deep down, Effie knew Suzan wasn''t here just to be berated. She''d already said

    some pretty harsh things, and yet Suzan still hadn''t left.

    Effie locked her gaze on Suzan, unflinching. ¡°All right, out with it. What do you really want?"

    Suzan realized she couldn''t keep

    pretending. Her expression

    hardened. "Fine. Let''s be clear;

    want you to stay away from Mitchell. You already have Lyman."

    Effieughed, incredulous. "You''re hrious. Mitchell started this-he''s the one who couldn''t make up his mind if you''re mad, go after him. What does any of this have to do with me?"

    Suzan''s eyes darkened, her jaw clenched. "If you hadn''t tempted him, he never would''ve strayed."

    She stared at Effie''s face with a mix of anger and something moreplicated,

    as if Effie''s very existence was an unforgivable crime.

    Her hand twitched at her side, her emotions swirling in her eyes.

 Chapter 349

    Effie watched Suzan warily, but she was still caught off guard when Suzan suddenly dropped to her knees right in front of her. "Please, can''t you just let Mitchell go and give Mr. Etheridge a real chance?" Suzan pleaded, her voice trembling with emotion. "Mr. Etheridge truly cares for you-he''d cherish you forever! Please, don''te between Mitchell and me anymore, okay?"

    Effie narrowed her eyes, her gaze fixed on Suzan as she spoke in a cold, sharp tone. "Suzan, have you lost your mind?"

    Suzan''s performance today was Oscar-worthy-tears streaming down her face, voice breaking with sorrow. If Effie didn''t know her better, she might have actually believed her.

    But suddenly, Suzan sprang to her feet. Though her eyes were still wet, the helpless little sister act vanished in an instant, reced by something far more calcting.

    "Effie, I know you''re not afraid," Suzan said tly. "But here''s a warning: I recorded everything that just happened and backed it up online. If you keep chasing after Mitchell-or if he so much ases looking for you I''ll send this little video straight to Mr. Etheridge."

    Suzan looked at Effie with smug satisfaction. "You and Mr. Etheridge have barely started dating; things between you two are still shaky. You wouldn''t want a stupid misunderstanding to ruin your rtionship, would you?"

    Effie let out a slow, exasperated breath. She''d seen shameless people before, but Suzan took it to a whole new level.

    "Keep your mutt on a leash," Effie bit out, every word edged with fury. "If hees sniffing around me again, I''ll make sure he regrets it." Her voice was low and dangerous, each syble practically seething with rage.

    Suzan expected a reaction, but Effie''s intensity still rattled her. She had never intended to truly go to war-she''d onlye to issue a warning. Now, she could only try to hold her ground. "Just worry about yourself."

    With a triumphant toss of her hair, Suzan strode over to the conference room door and flung it open, only to find a small crowd staring at her, their faces alight with curiosity and gossip.

    Suzan gave a disdainful snort, chin held high. "And here I thought working for a major firm would be so impressive. Looks like mypany puts this ce to shame."

    Suzan never missed a chance to boast, even daring topare The Etheridge Group to E&M.

    But what really caught Effie''s attention was Suzan''s casual im: "mypany."

    When did E&M be Suzan''spany? Effie had poured her heart and soul into building it from scratch, and though she''d cut her losses in time, it still stung to see someone else taking credit for her work. The injustice simmered inside her.  ?wnovel

    Suzan strutted out, still basking in her own self-importance. Irving Butler wasted no time piling on. "So, Effie, how''d the meeting go? I hear that woman''s engaged to Mr. Loyd from E&M, and she''s got her own jewelry design studio. Why would shee to you for design work?"

    Effie replied curtly, "Didn''t work out."

    Irving smirked. "Oh, so she turned down your designs? Can''t say I''m surprised..."

    He was only here to rub salt in the wound, never wasting an opportunity to belittle her.

    Effie shot him a frosty re. "Are you finished? Because if you are, I''d like to get back to work."

    Irving caught the edge in her voice and felt a smug little thrill. "Just try to do better next time, Effie. Maybe you''lDmanage a design someone actually wants. I''m right, aren''t I?"

    Effie drew a steadying breath. "Noted."

 Chapter 350

    Irving Butler nced at Effie and muttered under his breath, "That''s odd. Did Effie have a change of heart? She''s not even upset.¡±

    ...

    "Mr. Etheridge, do you want me to put this book away for you?" Luther gestured toward the novel Effie had finished reading yesterday, which now sat on the coffee table.

    "Just leave it there," Lyman replied.

    It was rare for Effie to set foot in his office, let alone leave something behind. Lyman didn''t want to erase that small trace of her presence at least, not yet.

    Luther eyed the casually abandoned book and couldn''t help but marvel at Effie''s influence. Usually, Lyman was the type of person who insisted everything be in its ce, who wouldn''t tolerate even the slightest disorder, yet he was letting a book just sit out in the open.

    Just then, Vinson Elliott and Randell pushed through the door.

    ¡°Lyman, what are you up to? We''re bored out of our minds. Why not join us for a ski trip abroad?¡± Vinson said, his face lighting up with excitement.

    "Ski resorts here are all the same-crowded and basic. The slopes are tiny, and you spend half the time waiting in line. It''s no fun at all."

    Lyman nced up at him, an unimpressed look in his eyes. "If you want to go, go by yourself. Don''t drag me into it."

    Randell picked up the book from the coffee table and flipped through it absentmindedly. "Lyman, why are you reading these again? Haven''t you already finished them ages ago?"

    It wasn''t just these few books; Lyman had read every single volume lining the wall-length bookshelf in his office.

    He had a terrifying habit-an almost photographic memory-and could speed- read like nobody else, taking in entire pages at a nce.

    No matter how you quizzed him afterward, he could recall every detail.

    It was downright intimidating. No wonder he''d skipped ahead in school while the rest of them had spent their lives ying catch-up.

    Randell thought to himself, Lyman just loves to show off. Why else would he install a whole wall of bookshelves in his office? It was practically an announcement: "Look at me, the most well-read man in the room."

    Suddenly, as Randell flipped through book,

    Hething caught his eye.

    He stared in disbelief. "Seriously? Lyman, I didn''t take you for a narcissist!"

    Lyman shot him a sharp look. "What are you talking about?"

    "I mean, it''s one thing to read, but why sketch a self-portrait in your book? Who can concentrate on the stor with your face staring back at them?" Randell teased.

    Everyone would be too distracted by the handsome guy in the margins.

    "What self-portrait? Let me see!" Vinson Elliott, ever the gossip, leaned in for a better look.

    He eximed, "Whoa, Lyman, I gotta say¡ªyou''ve really outdone yourself..."

    Before Vinson could finish his sentence, he caught Lyman''s icy re and swallowed the rest of his words.

    He cleared his throat. "When did you get so good at drawing? You never told us you had this hidden talent."

    Lyman strode over and snatched the book from Randell''s hands.

    When he saw the sketches inside, he froze.

    He hadn''t drawn these, but he knew exactly who had.

    Aside from him, the only other person who''d touched the book was Effie. He was certain-these sketches had to be hers.

    Without saying another word, Lyman tucked the book under his arm and headed for the door.

    "Where are you going?¡± Vinson called after him. "Come on, it''s just the three of us who''ve seen these ''self portraits.'' No need to rush off and destroy the evidence!"

    Randell elbowed Vinson and whispered, "Do you really think Lyman drew those?"

    "How should I know? Anything''s possible. Maybe he''s more self-absorbed than we thought,¡± Vinson replied.

    Randell rolled his eyes, at aplete loss for words.

 Chapter 351

    Lyman Etheridge''s phone went off, breaking the silence. He turned on his heel

    and strode to his desk. When he saw the message was from Effie Bagnold, a faint smile tugged at his lips.

    Effie: [Lunch together?]

    Lyman started to type a reply, but then paused, as if a new idea had struck him. Instead, he snapped a photo of one of the sketches lying on his desk and set it as his profile picture. Only then did he answer her.

    Lyman: [Sure.]

    Effie noticed the change almost instantly. Lyman had updated his profile picture¡ª and not just to any picture, but to one of the sketches she''d done yesterday when she was bored. Her cheeks flushed. She''d been in such a rush to leavest night that she''dpletely forgotten to get rid of the evidence.

    She''d assumed Lyman was too busy to go through those books, yet somehow he''d found her sketch anyway!

    Across the office, Randell Hoffman nced up at Lyman and snickered. "Look at him grinning like that," he said. "He''s smiling so wide, I''m surprised his face hasn''t split in half."

    "So what?" Vinson Elliott replied, unimpressed. "What exactly are you trying to prove?"

    Randell gave him an exasperated look. "Did you forget to take your meds again?" he shot back. "Because, honestly, that''s the only exnation for your cluelessness."

    Vinson didn''t take offense-he was used to Randell''s jabs. Among close friends, the teasing was merciless. The more familiar you were, the less you held back. Only acquaintances bothered with politeness.

    Still, Vinson knew there were lines you didn''t cross. Take Randell, for example- there was one subject that was strictly off-limits: the woman who had vanished from his life. Even a mention would be asking for trouble.

    "Rx, I remembered," Vinson said, pulling a bottle of pills from his pocket. "Want one? I''ll share."

    Randell rolled his eyes. "Seriously? You actually carry those around with you?"

    "How else am I supposed to cure you?" Vinson deadpanned.

    "Get lost."

    As Lyman reached for the door, he paused, turning back to fix Randell and Vinson with a look. "If you two have this much time on your hands, maybe trying up with ways to improve our revenue," he said.

    "Oh,e on, Lyman," Vinson protested, "Elliott''s Cozy Room is already doing so well that my servers are running themselves ragged. Any more, and they''ll be serving with smoke trailing from their trays."

    Randell kept quiet; his own resort''s business was barely limping along. He couldn''t help but feel that what he needed was a stroke of luck.

    "If you''ve got time to stand around chatting, you''re not working hard enough,"

    Lyman said, his tone final. "I want to see your business proposals on my desk by seven a.m. tomorrow. And you know how much I hate half-hearted work."

    "Oh, great."

    "Should''ve stayed home today..."

    Randell and Vinson groaned in unison.

    From across the room, Luther watched the two of them, offering a silent, momentary tribute. *Mr. Hoffman, Mr. Elliott, may you rest in peace.*

    After Lyman left, Vinson dered, "Looks like it''s time to break out my secret weapon!"

    Randell raised an eyebrow. "And what''s that supposed to be?"

    Vinson smirked. "Not telling."

    "I''ll pay you a million," Randell offered.

    "Please. You think I''m that shallow? Money can''t sway me," Vinson replied, feigning indignation.

    "Two million."

    "Money isn''t everything."

    "Eight million."

    Vinson hesitated, then grinned. "Well, who am I to turn down money?" He stuck out his hand. ¡°Cash up front, and I''ll spill."

    Randell shook his head but actually transferred the money to Vinson on his phone.

    Vinson checked the payment and nodded approvingly. ¡°Randell, you have to forgive a businessman''s bad habits. It''s just business, after all."

 Chapter 352

    Vinson Elliott leaned in close to Randell''s ear and whispered something only the two of them could hear.

    Randell froze for a second, then his expression changed dramatically. "You want eighty million for something this simple? Cancel it¡ªI want to take it back!"

    Vinson just shrugged. "A deal''s a deal. No refunds, no returns."

    "Crook!" Randell gritted out through clenched teeth.

    "Takes one to know one."

    "Fine, then I''ll use it too!" Randell shot back.

    "That''ll cost extra."

    ...

    Effie beat Lyman to the private dining room and was already sitting at the table, lost in thought, when he walked in.

    Lyman approached quietly. Hearing someonee in, Effie nced toward the door-only to find herself caught in the worried gaze of his eyes.

    "What do you feel like eating today?"

    He could tell she was a little out of sorts and wanted to cheer her up.

    Effie sighed. "I don''t really have a craving for anything special. Just order whatever."

    "Alright."

    But even though she said "whatever," Lyman ended up ordering all of Effie''s favorites: a spread of seafood, and a few fried dishes for good measure.

    Sure, fried food wasn''t exactly healthy, but it tasted fantastic-and there was nothing likefort food to lift the mood.

    The food arrived quickly, and by the time they''d finished, Effie felt noticeably better.

    She said with a smile, "Turns out, there''s nothing a good meal can''t fix. And if there is well, have another one."

    Lyman saw the gloom had finally lifted from her face. He took her hand gently and asked in a soft voice, "Will you tell me now what''s been bothering you?"

    Effie hesitated. "It''s nothing, really. Just feeling down for no reason. Maybe it''s that time of the monthing soon."

    "Family visiting?" Lyman asked, puzzled. "Don''t like them? Want me to deal with them for you?"

    Effie blinked, thrown by his literal interpretation. Deal with them? What did he mean by that?

    "No, that''s not necessary. Honestly, I''d be worried if they didn''t show up."

    Lyman leaned in and whispered in her ear, "Don''t worry. If there''s ever a little one on the way, we''ll wee them."

    Effie felt as if something exploded in her mind. She''d thought Lyman was clueless about these things, but clearly, he understood perfectly well.

    She shot him a sidelong nce. "So you do know what''s what, huh?"

    Lyman answered modestly, "I didn''t at first, butter I had Luther buy me a bunch

    of books. I studied them word by word, and now I get it."

    Effie had to stifle augh. "You''re really... studious, aren''t you?"

    She wondered if she should praise him, or maybe... just praise him.

    "It''s nothing," Lyman said, feigning humility.

    "Did you see my new profile picture? Like it?"

    Effie paused, knowing this wasing.

    "About that... I didn''t mean to doodle all over your book. I just got carried away,"

    she tried to exin, although even she found her excusecking.

    Lyman squeezed her hand reassuringly. "I''m not here to scold you. Actually-I think it''s cute. Draw more next time. I love seeing it."

    Effie''s cheeks flushed pink. She nodded, stiff and embarrassed.

    After their meal, as Effie and Lyman left the restaurant, they bumped into Friedman and Lindy Etheridge emerging from the private room across the hall.

    Friedman was holding Lindy''s hand, his grip gentle and unashamed. When he spotted Effie and Lyman, he didn''t let go or seem awkward-just genuinely pleased to run into them. "You two came to eat here too?"

    "The food''s really good," Lyman replied.

    Friedman smiled. "Your mom was saying it''s been ages since we ate out, so I thought I''d bring her. If you two like it, next time-let''s alle together..."

    Lindy gave a little cough and shot Friedman a look.

 Chapter 353

    Lindy shot Friedman a look, warning him to keep quiet.

    Of course, when a young couple is together, it''s only natural they want a bit of

    privacy.

    Just then, Effie chimed in, "Sounds great! I love a lively crowd."

    Suzan Bagnold, watching from a short distance away, narrowed her eyes and muttered through clenched teeth, "So fake."

    Jealousy twisted in Suzan''s chest. She couldn''t understand it-Effie was hardly anyone special, just someone''s castoff, yet the Etheridge parents doted on her.

    Meanwhile, Suzan was forced to lurk in the shadows, like some pariah, never allowed to show her face.

    Today, Adeline had gone off to a luncheon with the other societydies, but for once, she hadn''t invited Suzan along.

    Maybe it was because Suzan''s pregnancy was too conspicuous now. Or maybe Adeline was still annoyed after the fiasco at thest tea party.

    But what really rankled was: why did Effie get to be happy when Suzan couldn''t?

    "Suzan, just bear with it. Keep your head down and things will blow over," Vera whispered, leaning in.

    Suzan turned to look at Vera. Truthfully, Vera''s own position was precarious, too.

    She''d wed her way into the Bagnold family, edging out Adriana Spencer to be the newdy of the house, but everyone knew she hadn''t yed fair. The other women in their circle didn''t approve of her, and she was never really wee at their gatherings. If she forced her way in, they wouldn''t kick her out directly, but when it came time for group photos, they''d crop her out of every picture before posting them online.

    Some of them even went so far as to p a sticker over her face.

    Their message couldn''t have been clearer: she simply didn''t belong.

    Vera''s social standing was always just a little too low. Pushing her way in only made her look desperate, but she never seemed to mind.

    Now, she turned to Suzan. "Listen, you just need to hold on until the baby''s born and you marry into the Lloyd family. Once that happens, my own status will rise with yours!"

    Suzan nodded, a spark of hope in her eyes. "Let''s see who dares keep you out of their parties then, or crop you out of their photos!"

    Vera winced. Did Suzan have to spell it out like that? She had some pride, after all.

    Suzan sighed. ¡°But my stomach''s been hurting a lottely. The doctor says I need bed rest."

    "I don''t want to stay in bed! You have no idea, Mom. Mitchell Lloyd has lost his mind-he''s totally ignoring me. He''s always out chasing women. Now he''s found one who looks just like Effie. He takes her to hotels all the time! Once, he even brought her back to our apartment-I caught them together. Mitchell just told me if I couldn''t handle it, I could leave!"

    Suzan broke down in tears.

    Vera, embarrassed by the scene, quickly soothed her and pulled her into a private

    room.

    She whispered urgently, "Why didn''t you tell me sooner? You didn''t lose your temper with him, did you?"

    Suzan pressed her lips together, eyes darting away.

    Vera could guess from her reaction.

    "Oh, Suzan, you fool. You can''t lose your temper with him¡ªnot now!"

    Suzan''s eyes filled with tears. "I just couldn''t help it. I really love him."

    And she wanted all of him-couldn''t stand to share.

    Vera shook her head, feeling sorry for her. She knew all too well: in love, the one who gives the most is usually the one who ends up losing.

 Chapter 354

    Vera nced at Suzan''s belly and said, "You''re pregnant, so of course Mitchell can''t be intimate with you right now. It''s normal for him to feel a bit lonely. But snapping at him isn''t the way-it just pushes him further away."

    Suzan had to admit, ever since she''d started arguing with Mitchell more often, he''d definitely grown distant.

    Anxious and worried, she asked, "Mom, what should I do?"

    Vera took her hand. "Come with me¡ªI''m going to help you pick out something nice to wear for the night."

    "Nightwear? That''s not necessary. I already have plenty."

    Vera shook her head. "Not the right kind."

    Suzan followed Vera into a boutique specializing in lingerie. Only then did she realize what her mother meant by "not the right kind."

    All the pajamas Suzan thought were sexy suddenly seemed utterly tamepared to what filled these racks.

    "Mom, these... these are barely more than scraps of fabric. Is this even wearable?"

    Vera gave her an exasperated look. "You''re just wearing it at home, not out on the street. What are you worried about? If you want to keep Mitchell''s heart, you have to make the effort. So, are you in or not?"

    Suzan had to admit,pared to Vera, she was still a novice at this.

    As soon as they walked in, the sales assistant greeted Vera warmly. Clearly, Vera was a regr.

    Suzan leaned in and whispered, "Mom, I had no idea you and Dad were so... adventurous."

    For a moment, Vera''s smile faltered, and somethingplicated flickered in her eyes.

    "Pick this ck one. You have fair skin-it''ll look stunning on you."

    Suzan figured her mother knew best, so she let her choose.

    They left the boutique with a discreet bag in hand, unaware of a familiar figure lurking in the shadows nearby.

    "Miss, would you like to buy that nightgown?" the sales assistant asked Nita with a bright smile.

    "Huh?"

    Nita had sneaked in while tailing Suzan and Vera, grabbing the first thing she saw just to blend in. Only now did she realize she was clutching a slinky piece of lingerie that barely qualified as clothing.

    The silky fabric felt scorching hot in her hand-she wanted nothing more than to toss it away.

    She forced a sheepish smile. "Um... I..."

    "Miss Nita never would''ve guessed

    you''d go for something so wild," came a familiar, teasing voice. Vinson Elliott was about to walk

    past, but when he looked again, it really was Nita.

    Vinson was shameless, and even though he knew exactly what kind of shop this was, he strode right in.

    Nita was already mortified. Seeing Vinson sent her brain spinning; she felt an explosion of panic inside her head.

    In her panic, she shoved the nightgown into Vinson''s arms and bolted.

    Vinson stood there, stunned. "... What the-?"

    Did she really just dump that thing on him and run?

    She did. She actually ran.

    "Sir, would you like to purchase this?" the sales assistant asked politely.

    For once, Vinson''s cheeks turned red. Even with his thick skin, this was a new level of emba

    vel of embarrassment.

    "No, thank you," he muttered.

    He walked out trying to look unbothered, but as soon as he was clear of the shop,

    he sped up to a near-jog, practically fleeing.

    "Mr. Elliott."

    Nita''s head popped out from the doorway of a nearby store.

    Vinson smirked to himself. Gotcha. He crossed his arms and looked at her. "So, why did you throw that thing at me and run off?¡±

    Nita gave him an awkward smile. "Well... I figured you''d know what to do with it. You seem more experienced."

    Vinson''s eyes narrowed, a mischievous glint shing in them.

 Chapter 355

    "What do you mean by ''I''m more experienced''?" Vinson Elliott''s eyes darkened, and he let out a cold scoff.

    Nita''s heart skipped a beat. She forced augh and tried to y it cool. "Um... nothing. Forget it."

    She could never win an argument with him, so her instinct was to escape. But Vinson was quicker; he caught her by the back of her cor before she could take a step.

    Nita froze, awkwardly twisting around to face him. "Mr... Mr. Elliott."

    Vinson said, "To make up for the emotional damage you''ve caused me, you''re buying me dinner."

    Nita thought to herself, He really has a knack for squeezing every penny out of me. For something this minor, he''s already eyeing my tiny paycheck. Does he have any idea how hard it is for me to make a living?

    Every app on her phone was constantly bombarding her with special offers, and with all the holidays nowadays, it felt like every day was some sort of shopping festival. Her wallet had already been depleted by endless sales, and now she had to treat her boss to dinner. She was still breathing, but inside, she felt utterly dead.

    Vinson looked at her frowning face and thought, If I didn''t know any better, I''d think I was dragging her to her own execution.

    "I want pasta," Vinson said atst.

    Nita was still lost in her own misery. When she heard him say he wanted pasta, it felt like she was dreaming.

    "No interest in treating me? Fine, then let''s go for sushi," Vinson said, raising an eyebrow.

    "No! Sushi''s all cold and raw. That''s terrible for your stomach. Someone like you, who''s always out drinking and at business dinners, should eat something warm.¡±

    Vinson smiled approvingly. "That''s what I like to hear from my star employee. Always looking out for me."

    Nita''s mouth twitched. What choice did she have? If she didn''t pamper him a little, her money would be gone for nothing.

    "I know a ce that does amazing pasta. Let''s go there," Nita said, perking up.

    Vinson''s lips curled as he watched her sudden enthusiasm, as if she was terrified he''d change his mind at any second. She really was something else.

    In the end, dinner for two turned into dinner for four.

    Nita''s favorite pasta ce had

    ahh rmended by actually been rmended by

    it just happened to be The Etheridge Groups

    Effie turned to Lyman. "Last time we missed out. Now you finally get to try it. How is it?"

    Lyman replied, "It''s good, but a little spicy."

    Effie handed him a carton of milk. "Drink some milk. It helps with the heat."

    Vinson eyed her skeptically. "Effie, you sure milk works for that?"

    "Of course," Effie replied. "Every I ate something too spicy as a my mom would give me

    always helped." Content milke

    "Then I''ll take a bottle," Vinson said.

    "Sorry," Effie said sheepishly. "I only brought one."

    Lyman sipped contentedly, clearly pleased with himself.

    He shot Vinson a smug look. "Mm... this is really good milk. Honestly, the best I''ve ever had."

    Vinson leaned in and whispered, "Lyman, aren''t youctose intolerant? Careful, or you''ll regret itter."

    Effie

    intoles about myctose

    Lyman grinned. "You''re t

    intolerance, so she brought

    Vinson stared. ¡°Wow, that''s ridiculously thoughtful!"

    He looked at Lyman, envy written all over his face. "Tell me how do I find a wife

    as considerate as Effie?"

    Lyman shook his head. "Impossible."

    "Why not?"

    "Because there''s only one Effie."

    Vinson''s mouth twitched. "You know what? I''m starting to think you''re just showing

    off."

 Chapter 356

    While Lyman and Vinson Elliott were deep in conversation, Nita leaned in close to Effie and whispered, "Earlier today, when I went to meet a client, I suddenly spotted Vera and Suzan slipping into this really unusual store. I got curious and followed them inside."

    An unusual store?

    Effie''s eyes flickered with suspicion. What kind of ce could make Nita so hesitant to even speak its name?

    "What kind of store was it?" Effie asked, lowering her voice.

    Nita shot a quick, nervous nce at Lyman and Vinson Elliott before leaning closer to Effie''s ear, her voice barely audible as she finally exined.

    Effie was so shocked her hand jerked, sending her fork ttering to the floor.

    The noise was enough to draw Lyman''s and Vinson Elliott''s attention. Both men turned to look at her.

    Lyman''s tone was gentle. "Is everything alright?"

    Effie forced a bright smile and shook her head. "It''s nothing. Nita just dropped a bit of gossip on me, and I need a moment to process it."

    Nita caught Lyman''s gaze and offered him an embarrassed smile before turning back to Effie.

    "You wouldn''t believe it," she muttered. "Vera has no shame at all. She was right there in front of the sales clerk, teaching her daughter how to dress to lure in Mitchell. It was shameless-like she was prepping her for some sleazy business. Absolutely disgusting."

    "No wonder your dad and Mitchell both fell for those two women," Effie replied wryly.

    Nita licked her lips, watching Effie closely. "Are you okay?"

    Effie shook her head. "I''m fine."

    But truthfully, a bitter difort twisted inside her. She and her mother had both lost to people like that. Was that really the kind of woman men preferred?

    Sensing her mood, Nita tried tofort her. "At least you have Mr. Etheridge. He''s the type who''s practically allergic to drama. No way he''d get involved in something like that."

    Effie nodded, barely managing a smile. "Yeah."

    Just then, out of the corner of her eye, Effie spotted Shirley and Peter passing by not far away.

    Hidden behind a decorative screen, Effie knew Shirley couldn''t see them.

    Nita followed Effie''s gaze and saw Shirley too.

    "Hey, there''s Shirley. I''ll go say hi and

    invite her in. I can''t believe she''s dating someone behind my back! But that guy..." Nita wrinkled ber

    nose. ¡°He seems a bit sleazy to me.¡±

    Effie quickly grabbed Nita''s hand, shaking her head. "Don''t. She probably doesn''t

    want to see me right now."

    Nita hesitated, a little startled. "What''s going on? Did something happen?"

    Effie smiled faintly. "It''s nothing serious. Just a misunderstanding."

    "Then clear the air while you have the chance," Nita urged.

    Effie shook her head again. "It''s not the right time. I''ll wait."

    Nita could only sigh. "Alright, if you say so."

    She''d only known Shirley for a short time, but the bonds forged over a fewte-night card games felt genuine Shirley struck her as straightforward and easygoing if there wasn''t some major issue, it was hard to imagine her falling out with Effie.

    But since Effie didn''t want to talk about it, Nita decided not to push. Still, curiosity got the better of her, and she sent Shirley a quick text, asking what was going on.

    No reply.

    She was about to send another message when she realized Shirley had blocked her.

    Nita huffed, clearly annoyed. "That''s just cold. We''re friends, for crying out loud- Shirley didn''t have to block me too."

    Effie apologized softly. "Sorry, I didn''t mean to drag you into this."

    Nita waved her off. "Hey, don''t say that. We''re friends-there''s no such thing as dragging each other down. If anything, I''ve caused you more trouble than you''ve ever caused me."

 Chapter 357

    "All done? Let''s get going," Lyman said to Effie and Nita.

    Just then, Vinson Elliott cleared his throat.

    Nita snapped to attention, suddenly remembering something. She shot Vinson a wounded look, thinking to herself, Seriously? It''s just a simple bowl of noodles- it''s barely a few dors. Does he really need to squeeze this out of me?

    "Alright, alright, I got it. Lunch is on me today," Nita muttered, sounding like she was being dragged to her own execution.

    Effie grinned. "What''s the asion, Nita? Did you get a raise or a promotion?"

    Nita pulled a face. "Do you really think that''s possible?"

    Vinson Elliott chimed in, "Actually, Nita just got promoted to sales manager today. Well, assistant manager for now, but if you keep working hard, there''s plenty of room to move up."

    Nita froze,pletely stunned. Her jaw dropped, and Vinson, watching her, made a fist and held it up, looking unimpressed.

    Are all women''s mouths really that small? Can''t even fit my fist, he thought.

    Suddenly snapping out of it, Nita stared at Vinson, her voice trembling with excitement. "Wait-Mr. Elliott, when did I get promoted? No one told me!"

    Vinson shrugged, calm as ever. "Just now."

    "Just now...?"

    Nita''s tone flipped in an instant. "Mr. Elliott, you''re amazing! I always knew you had an eye for talent. With an employee as great as me, how could you possibly let me go to waste? Lunch is definitely on me!"

    She threw up her hands in triumph, grinning like she''d just won the lottery.

    Seeing Nita so happy, Effie couldn''t help butugh too.

    After saying goodbye to Effie, Nita was still floating on air.

    Vinson nced over. "You''re really this happy?"

    Watching her strut around like she''d conquered the world, Vinson felt a mischievous urge to mess with her.

    "I said you were promoted, but I was just giving you a trial card. You get to test- drive the manager job for a day-how about that?"

    Nita blinked, her smile faltering. The mouth that had practically split her face a minute ago snapped shut.

    She looked at Vinson, searching his face. "You''re joking, right, Mr. Elliott?"

    Vinson just stared back at her, expression unreadable.

    Nita''s eyes stung, her nose prickled She was on the verge of tears, but she forced herself to take a deep breath and pretended nothing was wrong. "Alright, I understand."

    She told herself she should be satisfied-after all, she''d gone from regr staff to supervisor in record time.

    "Understand what?" Vinson asked.

    Nita turned away, refusing to look at him.

    Does he really think it''s funny to keep teasing me like this?

    Seeing her eyes glisten, Vinson felt a pang of guilt.

    "I was messing with you," he

    admitted, "With your results, yo

    should''ve been promoted long ago. I just thought you were a bit young and wanted to test you first."

    This time, Nita no longer felt the same excitement. Her emotions had been

    yanked up and down so many times she''d gone numb.

    "Nita, are you okay?" Vinson asked, suddenly worried.

    Why isn''t she happy anymore?

    In her mind, Nita cursed Vinson''s ancestors, but she didn''t say it out loud. Instead, she forced a smile. "With a boss as wonderful as you, Mr. Elliott, how could I possibly be upset?"

    Vinson looked at her, feeling an odd pang in his chest.

    "Don''t look at me like that, Nita," he said quietly. "You''re scaring me. That smile''s

    more tragic than if you were crying."

 Chapter 358

    Effie had barely been home a few minutes when her phone started buzzing-a message alert. At first, just a couple of notifications, but soon her screen was

    lighting up nonstop.

    Lyman was about to hop in the shower when he suddenly paused, turning stiffly toward Effie. "Is Mitchell bothering you again?" he asked, his tone wary.

    Effie shook her head. "No. I blocked every number he has ages ago."

    She hesitated, then added, "It''s Nita. She''s ranting about Vinson Elliott, calling him crazy."

    Lymanughed. "Maybe he forgot to take his meds before leaving the house today."

    Effie blinked, thrown by thement. "Wait, he''s sick?"

    Lyman grinned. "Not really. He''s just a bit neurotic, so we always joke about it¡ª especially Randell. He loves teasing Vinson about missing his medication."

    "I see," Effie replied absently, her fingers flying over the screen as she typed, probably trying to cheer Nita up. With that, Lyman headed to the bathroom.

    When he came out, toweling off, Effie was still on her phone, but now there was a beautiful nightgownid out on the bed-whitece, delicate and... rather minimal. Just looking at it, Lyman could easily picture how stunning Effie would look wearing it; his pulse quickened at the thought.

    "New?" he asked, his voice a little rough.

    Effie turned to him, noticing a different look in his eyes. She swallowed nervously. "Yeah. It''s from Nita-she said it''s a wedding gift."

    Apparently, Nita had slipped it to Effie earlier when Lyman and Vinson weren''t paying attention. The moment Nita saw the nightgown, she thought of Effie, certain this was made for her and her alone.

    Effie had dug it out of her bag just moments ago, feeling awkward as she tossed it

    on the bed-only for Lyman to walk out and catch her in the act.

    "So... do you like it?" she asked, her voice tense.

    "It''s... nice," Lyman replied, his Adam''s apple bobbing.

    Effie picked up the nightgown, and Lyman''s gaze tracked every movement of her hands, his eyes burning with intensity.

    With a quick flick, she tossed the nightgown at him. "If you like it so much, you can wear it for a couple

    of days," she teased, then darted out of the room, mortified.

    Lyman stared at the nightgown now lying at his feet. He picked it up, shaking his head in disbelief and amusement.

    Did she really think he could wear this?

    Later, when Effie came out of the shower, she absolutely refused to put on the nightgown. Thankfully, Lyman didn''t push it, and she breathed a quiet sigh of relief.

    ***

    Elsewhere, Suzan had also slipped into something alluring for the night, though she covered it with a whitez robe for now. Vera had insisted that leaving a little to the imagination was more exciting-a sh ofce here, a glimpse of skin there. Suzan tucked away all of Vera''s advice.

    It helped that Suzan was Vera''s

    daughter she had inherited that et

    natural, effortless allure. Every move she made, no matter how subtle, seemed to drip with sensuality.

    Mitchell was working in his study when he heard a knock at the door. Annoyance

    flickered across his face, but he forced himself to sound patient. "Come in."

    Suzan entered, her rounded belly leading the way. Even pregnant, she took impable care of herself; except for her baby bump, her figure was still slender and graceful.

    "Mitchell..." she purred, her voice soft and inviting.

 Chapter 359

    Mitchell froze, his whole body tensing as he slowly looked up at Suzan.

    He''d only meant to nce at her, but the moment their eyes met, a jolt shot through him-heat tightening in his belly, his senses suddenly alive. It was as if he''d been bewitched.

    Stiffly, he got to his feet and started toward Suzan.

    Suzan yed along, swaying her hips as she walked over to him, her voice dripping with flirtation. "Mitchell, darling."

    Mitchell reached her in two strides and pulled her into his arms.

    He inhaled deeply; there was something unusual, almost intoxicating, about her scent, and it drew him inpletely.

    "You smell incredible," Mitchell murmured, his voice rough with desire.

    Suzan giggled, rising on tiptoe to nuzzle against him.

    Just as Mitchell was about to lose control, his hand brushed against Suzan''s stomach.

    He paused, going rigid, and pushed her back a little.

    Suzan looked up at him, eyes hazy with longing. "What''s wrong?" she murmured sweetly.

    Mitchell''s gaze dropped to her rounded belly, and suddenly any desire he''d felt vanished. Frustrated, he raked a hand through his hair. "Do you... do you even realize your situation right now?"

    Suzan only pressed closer, her voice low and sultry. "It''s fine. I asked they said after the third month, it''s safe..."

    Mitchell''s interest sparked again. "Are you sure?"

    Suzan nodded, slipping her robe open just enough to reveal her curves.

    Mitchell''s eyes darkened. He lost control, pulling Suzan down with him, intent on making her his right then and there.

    Suzan, starved for intimacy herself, melted into him, the two of them tangled in a desperate embrace.

    Maybe it was the aphrodisiac perfume Vera had given

    her-whatever the cause, neithal

    of

    them could stop. Again and again, they gave in to their desires...

    Then, all at once, Suzan cried out in pain. "My stomach-Mitchell, it hurts¡ª"

    Mitchell froze at the anguish in her voice.

    He looked down between her legs, and the shock of bright red blood made his vision blur.

    "You... you''re bleeding," he stammered, barely able to process what he was seeing.

    Suzan clutched his hand in panic, her voice trembling. "The hospital-I need to go to the hospital. Please, the baby-something''s wrong..."

    Outside the emergency room, Mitchell stood in shock, his clothes stained with blood.

    He was shaking, his mind aplete nk. How had things spiraled so far out of control?

    Suddenly, hurried footsteps echoed down the hall.

    "What happened? Is my grandson okay?" Adeline rushed over, her voice tight with worry.

    Mitchell bit his lip, shaking his head helplessly. "I don''t know. She said her stomach hurt, and then there was blood..."

    Adeline frowned, her worry quickly turning to frustration. "It must be Suzan''s carelessness. She never-"

    Her words trailed off as she caught

    sight of the love bites on Mitchell''s neck. Her eyes narrowed, and her

    tone grew sharp. "Did you cheat on her, and she found out? I told you, this is not the time-you need to Control yourself! Wait until after she gives birth. If anything happens now, I swear-"

    "Mom," Mitchell interrupted, his voice strained. "Enough. It was me and Suzan... today."

    "What?!" Adeline''s eyes widened in shock, her hand shooting up as if to p him-though she stopped herself at thest second. "Are you out of your mind? You know she''s pregnant, and you still-"

    Mitchell stared at her, helpless. "It wasn''t my fault. She came on to me, said it was

    safe now, that we could... I just¨D"

 Chapter 360

    Adeline''s eyes darkened, her re sharp enough to kill.

    She let out a cold, contemptuous huff. ¡°She''s just like her good-for-nothing mother -can''t keep herself in line for a second! That woman-if anything happens to my precious grandson, I swear I won''t let her off the hook!"

    At first, Adeline had assumed Suzan came from decent stock, being the daughter

    of the Bagnold family. But after spending some time around her, she realized Suzan was little more than a pretty face with nothing between her ears.

    Later, after digging around, Adeline finally learned the truth about Suzan''s background.

    She was even worse than Effie!

    If she''d known from the start, she would never have let Suzan and Mitchell get involved. But it was toote now.

    So, for the time being, Adeline could only grit her teeth and bear it.

    She''d wait until Suzan gave birth, and then she''d make sure Suzan paid for everything.

    Just then, Vera and Shepard Bagnold arrived, only to catch the tail end of Adeline''s venomous tirade.

    Vera''s face flushed red, then drained pale, her expression shifting between embarrassment and fury.

    Shepard shot Vera a hard look. "What''s going on here?"

    Vera bit her lip, not wanting to answer.

    Under Shepard''s stern gaze, Vera finally caved and told him everything.

    By the time she finished, Shepard was so angry he looked like he might explode. "You think your daughter is some streetwalker? Teaching her-" Shepard broke off, shaking with rage. "You''re going to be the death of me! The Bagnold family''s reputation is in ruins thanks to the two of you!"

    Vera felt wronged. Everything she''d done was to keep Mitchell from straying, to make sure Suzan held onto her ce.

    She protested, "It''s just normal married life¡ªnothing should have gone wrong. Back when I was pregnant with you, nothing happened to me.....¡±

    Shepard''s cheeks flushed with embarrassment. He stammered, "That was then. Maybe Suzan''s not as robust as you were."

    Privately, Vera wondered if Mitchell and Suzan had simply gotten too carried away.

    But right now, Suzan was still in the emergency room, her fate and the baby''s hanging by a thread.

    If they questioned Mitchell, he''d never tell the truth anyway, so all they could do was wait for Suzan to pull through and ask her what really happened.

    They waited all through the night into the next day. Hours dragged on, everyone exhausted and frayed, but Suzan and her unborn child were still not out of danger.

    That very morning, Effie and her grandmother hade to the hospital to pick up some blood pressure medication. On their way in, they overheard some cleaningdies whispering about the drama.

    It wasn''t as if they were trying to eavesdrop-they just happened to be in the

    same elevator and couldn''t help but hear.

    When the elevator doors slid open, Effie''s grandmother led her out and said, "Effie, listen to me: if you get pregnant, don''t go doing anything reckless with your

    husband. It''s not just your e

    safety at stake, but the baby''s too. I don''t want anything to happen to you, understand?"

    She spoke matter-of-factly, but Effie''s cheeks flushed crimson with embarrassment.

    Effie nodded obediently. "I understand."

    "Well, well, what are you understanding?" A mocking voice cut through the hallway. "A hen that''s neverid an egg is worried about batching chicks? Maybe worry about getting pregnant in the first ce before you start fretting about anything else."

    Effie knew that voice all too well. She turned and, sure enough, there was Adeline,

    her face twisted with scorn.

    Behind her stood Mitchell, Shepard, and the rest.

    Effie''s gazended on Mitchell''s pajama top, still stained with blood-and in that instant, everything clicked.

 Chapter 361

    Noticing Effie''s gaze, Adeline smoothly stepped in front of Mitchell, her tone cutting and cold. "Effie, your little schemes are written all over your face. You want what''s on your te and what''s still in the oven." She sneered. "Dream on, sweetheart. Some things are just out of your league."

    Shepard had always known Adeline could be sharp-tongued, but he''d never realized she could be this ruthless. Both his daughters had just been humiliated by her, and the room hung heavy with tension.

    He shifted, ready to intervene.

    But Vera, as if reading his mind, quickly grasped his hand and shook her head ever so slightly.

    In a whisper meant only for him, Vera said, "Suzan''s in critical condition after the mess she caused. If you anger Mrs. Lloyd now, we''ll all suffer the consequences."

    Shepard weighed his options in a sh, then decided against speaking up for Effie.

    Effie raised her chin. "Sorry, but I''m really not interested in your family drama. But whatever you''ve gotten yourselves into, the whole hospital''s talking about it. Only you people could pull off something so disgraceful."

    "You little brat, what did you just say?!"

    Adeline''s temper red. She raised her hand to p Effie.

    Before she couldnd the blow, two hands shot out toward her. The one from behind Effie was faster, blocking Adeline''s arm.

    When she saw Lyman standing there, Adeline''s eyes narrowed, though she tried topose herself. "Lyman, dear¡ª"

    He shook off her hand with an icy re. "We''re not that close, Mrs. Lloyd."

    Adeline''s face flushed, then paled, herposure crumbling. He hadn''t spared her even a shred of dignity.

    But right now, what really stung was the other hand that had reached out from behind her. She knew her own son-there was no mistaking it. That hand belonged to Mitchell.

    Sure enough, when she turned, she locked eyes with him.

    "Mitchell, what''s the meaning of this?" Adeline''s voice was cold as ice.

    Suzan was still fighting for her life, and here he was defending another woman?

    As if things weren''t chaotic enough already.

    "Mom, there''s no need to make this uglier than it already is," Mitchell muttered, jaw tight. "You know how things have been for metely. You know why."

    Adeline''s expression shifted.

    Of course. She''d almost forgotten how Lyman had made Mitchell''s life hell recently.

    She turned to Lyman, her voice hard. "Keep your girlfriend in check. Don''t drag innocent people into this mess."

    Lyman shot back, "Maybe you should keep your own mutt on a leash. Wouldn''t want him barking at everyone in sight."

    With that, Lyman and Effie led Grandmother out of the room.

    As they walked, Lyman turned to them. "Sorry I waste. I had to circle the lot for a parking spot."

    Grandmother huffed. ¡°If you hadn''t

    Her words were cut short by a fit of coughing, her anger still simmering.

    Effie hurried to rub her back,

    soothing her. "Don''t worry about me,

    SE People like that aret

    like that are

    talk. She wouldn''t dare touch me."

    Lyman said, "Now that we''ve picked up the medicine, how about we stop for some

    tea?"

    Grandmother brightened. "Oh, I''d love some herbal tea right now."

    "Perfect. Tea it is," Lyman replied.

    "And ckmire''s pastries," Effie added with a grin.

    Lyman chuckled. "All the pastries you want."

    Effie turned to her grandmother. "What about you, Grandma? Want to join us?"

    Grandmother''s eyes sparkled. She loved ckmire''s pastries, and she always knew just which ones were the best.

 Chapter 362

    My mother once told me that my grandmother used to live in ckmire for a while before she married Grandpa and moved with him to Neo-Arcadia.

    Grandma often said, "Oh, I''d love to, but it''s hard to find real ckmire-style pastries these days. Back then, they were always made fresh, wheeled out on little carts. If you wanted your favorite treat, you had to be quick-everyone else was trying to grab them, too."

    "They say it''s all pre-made now, so the taste just isn''t quite the same."

    Lyman chimed in, "Why don''t we go to Elliott''s Cozy Room? They''ve just brought in an amazing new chef, and the ce has started its soft opening. I''ve heard everyone who''s eaten there has nothing but praise."

    "We really should give it a try, then."

    In fact, it was Lyman who''d suggested the chef to Elliott''s Cozy Room.

    Last time he''d brought Grandma there, she had said the spare ribs reminded her of the food she used to have in ckmire, and she''d mentioned how much she missed it. After that, Lyman had asked Vinson Elliott to hire a local ckmire chef. When they arrived at Elliott''s Cozy Room, Grandma insisted they sit in the main dining hall for the lively atmosphere, rather than taking a private room.

    Sure enough, there was a cart being pushed around nearby. People gathered around it, peeking in to see what was on offer, grabbing their favorites and leaving with satisfied smiles.

    Effie turned to Grandma. "What would you like to eat, Grandma?"

    Grandma replied, "Shrimp dumplings, barbecue pork rolls, and those roasted chicken."

    "Alright, I''ll go see what I can find."

    Lyman went with Effie, worried she might burn herself.

    Heughed and said, "Grandma really knows her food."

    Effie grinned. "Of course! She used to live here, after all."

    "Moved to Neo-Arcadia with Grandpater."

    "So, is Grandma from ckmire?" Lyman asked.

    Effie shook her head. "I''m not actually sure."

    Effie ordered a few things, with Lyman helping her carry the tes.

    As they made their way back, they ran into Fidelia Etheridge and Isabeling from the opposite direction.

    Fidelia blinked in surprise at the sight of Lyman, then quickly said, "Big brother, you''re here for brunch too?"

    Lyman just gave a neutral nod and turned away.

    His attitude was distant, and he didn''t linger.

    Isabel bit her lip and gently tugged at Fidelia''s hand.

    Fidelia nced at Isabel, her eyes flickering with sympathy. She might be afraid of Lyman, but for Isabel''s sake, she could only steel herself.

    She led Isabel over to Lyman. "Big brother, can we join your table? There aren''t any open seats left."

    "If there aren''t any seats, then get a private room," Lyman replied.

    "But the private rooms aren''t as lively-it''s not as much fun. I''m working on a sociology project at college about changing habits in how people socialize."

    At that moment, Grandma spoke up. "We''re all family here. If you don''t mind, just sit with us."

    Grandma had no idea about Fidelia''s attitude toward Effie, so she greeted Fidelia and Isabel warmly.

    Effie didn''t say much either, figuring as long as Grandma was happy, that was what really mattered.

    Still, if those two tried anything funny, she definitely wouldn''t let it slide.

    Lyman leaned in close to Effie''s ear and murmured, "If you''re notfortable, you can make them leave."

    Effie replied, "It''s fine. Grandma''s rarely in such a good mood. But if they try anything, I won''t be polite."

    Lyman squeezed her hand gently, his voice soft. "Alright, whatever you say."

    Watching Lyman and Effie so close together, Isabel''s face darkened, her jealousy written all over it.

 Chapter 363

    Grandma looked at Isabel with concern. "Miss Isabel, are you feeling unwell? You look so pale-do you need to see a doctor?"

    To Isabel and Fidelia, her words sounded almost like a challenge rather than

    genuine worry.

    Fidelia scoffed, her tone sharp. "Of course Isabel isn''t feeling well. The man she loves was stolen away by a tramp. It''s no wonder she''s upset."

    Lyman''s eyes darkened. His voice was cold andmanding. "Fidelia, that''s enough. Don''t talk nonsense."

    Isabel''s face had drained of all color. She clung to Fidelia''s sleeve and whispered, "Fidelia, stop, please. That''s not how it happened. It''s not true."

    But the more Isabel tried to retreat, the angrier Fidelia became.

    How could Effie walk around so self-righteous after stealing someone else''s love?

    "I''m not talking nonsense. Whoever did this knows exactly what they did," Fidelia shot back, ring pointedly in Effie''s direction.

    To her disbelief, Effie sat calmly, sipping her tea and nibbling pastries. When Grandma finished her drink, Effie quietly refilled her cup, handling everything with an effortless grace.

    Grandma tapped her fingers on the table in a gentle gesture of thanks, and Effie nodded in acknowledgment.

    Watching this peaceful exchange made Fidelia''s chest tighten with frustration.

    She turned her attention to Effie. "What about you, Effie? Care to exin yourself?"

    Effie looked up slowly, meeting Fidelia''s gaze. "You can''t just go by rumors. You say someone stole her beloved. But did that man ever return her feelings? Or did he agree to be with her, only to go after someone else? If that''s the case, it''s his fault-not the woman''s."

    "But if a woman shamelessly wedges herself between two people in love, scheming to break them apart, then yes-she deserves everyone''s contempt."

    Effie''s eyes flicked to Isabel. "Don''t you agree, Miss Isabel?"

    Isabel felt the weight of Effie''s words pressing down on her, her face turning ashen.

    Sensing Isabel''s distress, Fidelia snapped at Effie, "Effie, what sort of rubbish are you spouting?"

    Effie watched her coolly. "Do you think I''m wrong? Isn''t that exactly the kind of behavior you despise? As far as I know, the man Isabel likes never returned her feelings. In fact, she''s the one who''s always tried to meddle and break up someone else''s rtionship."

    "That''s a lie!" Fidelia hissed through clenched teeth.

    She turned to Isabel, desperate. "Isabel, none of that is true, right?!"

    Isabel''s lips trembled. "I... I didn''t."

    Of course Isabel would never admit it.

    Fidelia trusted Isabel implicitly, as if under some spell.

    "That woman is truly wretched," Fidelia continued, her voice shaking with emotion. "Always doubting people''s motives, scheming to ruin their happiness, and even getting Isabel fired from her job."

    Effie let out a coldugh. "So tell me which is more legitimate: a rtionship protected byw, or one that exists only in someone''s imagination?"

    "Love isn''t about who came first. You either love, or you don''t. Maybe you should figure that out before using others."

    Before thest word had even faded, Isabel shot to her feet and fled the room, unable to bear any more.

    Fidelia''s heart ached as she watched Isabel go. She started after her, but Lyman spoke up sharply.

    "Wait."

    Fidelia froze, looking back at him. "B-Big brother..."

    "ording to the Etheridge family rules, you''re responsible for what you''ve done today. Go back to the main house and ept your punishment."

 Chapter 364

    Punishment?!

    At the thought of spending the night kneeling alone in the chilly, gloomy family chapel, Fidelia''s heart filled with dread.

    Tears streaming down her cheeks, she pleaded, "Big brother, I know I was wrong, I..."

    "Do you really know what you did wrong? Or are you just saying that so you can avoid kneeling in the chapel?" Lyman''s voice was frigid. "I''ll speak to Grandfather.

    If you don''t go back, you''ll have to deal with the consequences."

    Fidelia flinched, her whole body deting like a punctured balloon, robbed of its energy.

    Head hung low, she shuffled away.

    After that little episode, Effie found herself in even better spirits. Honestly, who wouldn''t feel lighter after an annoying presence finally left?

    Suddenly, Effie felt her grandmother''s gaze upon her.

    She looked over and called softly, "Grandma?"

    Her grandmother smiled and said, "Effie, you did well today. That''s exactly how you should handle people like her."

    Effie was taken aback. She''d half expected a lecture, but instead¡ª

    Lyman quickly interjected, "Grandma, I''m sorry. Today was my fault. I should have handled things better."

    Her grandmother waved a dismissive hand, "Nonsense. It''s not your fault. You''re the golden boy of the family-of course you attract a lot of attention, that''s only natural."

    "But your cousin Fidelia truly doesn''t know right from wrong. Thank goodness our Effie doesn''t have to live under the same roof as her, or it''d be a disaster."

    Lyman understood perfectly well what his grandmother was implying.

    He said earnestly, "Don''t worry, Grandma. I won''t let anyone bully Effie."

    Effie chimed in, "Grandma, trust me¡ªI can take care of myself. I''m tougher than I look."

    Her grandmother broke into a wide grin. "Don''t be stubborn, dear. Lyman''s your husband. It''s perfectly natural for him to help you when you need it."

    Lyman echoed her words, parroting, "That''s right. Perfectly natural."

    Effieughed. "Alright, I understand."

    After asking Luther to drive her grandmother home, Effie and Lyman headed off to work.

    On the way, Lyman''s phone kept buzzing non-stop. The caller ID shed again and again: Uncle Fowler Etheridge. But Lyman ignored every call.

    Effie nced over and said, "He''s

    called you a dozen times alreadmet

    Why don''t you just turn your phone off? That way you won''t have to listen to his barrage of calls."

    Lyman shook his head. "No need. If I switch off my phone, he''ll give up after a few tries. But if my phone keeps ringing and I never reject his calls, he''ll keep calling, hoping answer. The one getting desperate isn''t me-it''s him."

    Effie smiled to herself. Now that''s ssic Lyman.

    As they neared the office, Effie hopped out of the car.

    Lyman had barely driven a block before a dark figure darted out in front of him, forcing him to stop.

    Effie''s heart raced-she''d just watched Lyman nearly get into an ident; she couldn''t help but worry, so she lingered at a distance, keeping an eye on him.

    The man hurried around to the driver''s side, rapping on the window and motioning for Lyman to roll it down.

    Expression icy, Lyman slowly lowered the ss.

    The moment Fowler saw Lyman''s

    face, he stiffened. Lyman might be younger, but the force of his

    presence was so intense that even a

    seasoned schemer like Fowler almost couldn''t withstand it.

    Drawing a deep breath, Fowler stared at him and demanded, "Lyman, what''s

    going on? Why are you making Fidelia kneel as punishment?"

    Lyman shot him a cold look. "You know exactly why she''s being punished, don''t you?"

 Chapter 365

    Fowler was getting desperate. "But is it really fair to punish your own sister for the sake of an outsider?" he protested.

    Lyman fixed Fowler with a hard stare, his eyes turning cold.

    "Outsider? Effie is my wife. She''s legally part of this family. The fact that none of you respect her or treat her as one of us just proves you don''t see me as family either, does it?"

    With such a heavy usation hanging in the air, Fowler realized that if things escted, he might end up in trouble himself.

    "Lyman, that''s not what I meant, I¡ª"

    "Then what did you mean?" Lyman pressed, his tone icy. "Just tell me: if someone disrespects the wife of the Etheridge family''s eldest son and heir, should they be punished or not?"

    Fowler knew there was no salvaging the situation now. He gritted his teeth and muttered, ¡°Yes. She should be punished."

    Lyman''s window began to slide up, but he paused while there was still a crack open.

    "Oh, and Fowler," he said coolly, "be sure to tell Fidelia I''ll be home tonight to keep an eye on her. She shouldn''t get any ideas about cking off."

    Without waiting for any further response, Lyman signaled the driver to go. The car pulled away, leaving Fowler in a cloud of exhaust.

    Fowler stood there, fists clenched so tightly his knuckles turned white, ring after Lyman''s car as if he could burn holes through the trunk with his stare.

    "Just wait, Lyman," he muttered under his breath. "Your day wille."

    After a moment, he turned and stalked off.

    Effie was still standing where Lyman had left her. Just then, Shirley happened to pass by. She nced at Effie with cool indifference and walked on without a word.

    A momentter, Effie spotted Peter in the distance. She shook her head, drawing a deep breath to steady herself before heading off to work.

    ...

    Atst, the lights above the operating room flickered off. Mitchell and the others, drained and anxious, rushed to the doctor. "Doctor, how are the mother and baby?"

    "After more than ten hours of effort," the doctor replied, "we managed to save both mother and child. However, the patient''s condition is still fragile. She''ll need strict bed rest until delivery."

    Adeline exhaled, relief flooding her features. As long as her grandson was safe, nothing else mattered.

    Vera pressed anxiously, ¡°But doctor, won''t it be ufortable for herto

    1

    stay in bed all the time? Is she really not allowed to get up at all? Not even for ten minutes?"

    Adeline''s re was icy and sharp as a knife. "Your daughter almost cost me my precious grandson. Now, after all this, you''re worried about herfort? If anything happens to my grandson, I swear-you''lkanswer forit."

    IMS

    Vera''s eyes widened in fear. She knew she couldn''t match Adeline''s authority, and

    in that moment, she lost all her nerve, falling silent.

    She turned pleadingly to Shepard, but he too was silent-he relied on the Lloyd family''s support now and dared not speak.

    Though Vera was boiling with anxiety and resentment, she could only swallow her anger and endure.

    Thankfully, the doctor added, "It''s alright for her to get up and walk a little¡ªjust no strenuous activity."

    "Thank you, doctor. Thank you so much!" Vera eximed, relief in her voice.

    She felt Adeline''s sharp gaze on her but pretended not to notice.

    ...

    That evening, after work, Effie¡ªstill feeling the sting of being ostracized-rode home with Lyman to the Etheridge estate.

    Lyman led her to the family chapel. Sure enough, Fidelia was there, kneeling on the stone floor, with the butler keeping a watchful eye nearby.

    The butler addressed Lyman respectfully, "Don''t worry, sir. The master instructed me to watch Miss Fidelia, and she''s been kneeling here as ordered."

 Chapter 366

    The butler had barely finished speaking when Fidelia suddenly swayed on her feet.

    The truth was, Fidelia was already at her limit; she was just gritting her teeth and forcing herself to hold on.

    Lyman noticed her wavering, but chose to ignore it. If she couldn''t handle even this bit of family discipline, then perhaps she needed to ept her own limitations ¡ªand stop provoking Effie.

    Lyman and Effie were about to go find Bancroft Etheridge when a figure hurried toward them.

    It was Marcia.

    Lyman had anticipated Marcia''s arrival and, as expected, instinctively stepped in front of Effie to shield her.

    "Lyman, Fidelia is still just a child. She knows she was wrong-please, let her off this time,¡± Marcia pleaded, her eyes rimmed red, as if she might burst into tears at any second.

    Lyman''s tone was ice-cold. "Aunt Marcia, everyone has to take responsibility for their actions. Without rules, a family falls apart. If we forgive every mistake without consequence, what would be of the Etheridge family?"

    ¡°But..... she''s just so young..." Marcia''s voice trembled, on the verge of crying.

    To her, Fidelia hadn''t done anything unforgivable¡ªshe''d only said the wrong thing. Did it really warrant such a harsh punishment?

    Just then, Bancroft joined them, leaning heavily on his cane. He rapped it against the floor for emphasis. ¡°Lyman is right. The Etheridge family has its rules, and we don''t bend them for anyone."

    "Sir..."

    Marcia looked at Bancroft, words caught in her throat. In the end, she swallowed them, resigned.

    Bancroft turned to Lyman and Effie, his stern expression quickly softening into a genial smile. "It''s not often you''re both home. Stay for dinner tonight, won''t you?"

    Lyman nced at Effie rather than answering right away.

    Effie smiled. "We''d love to."

    Only then did Lyman nod. "All right."

    Whatever Effie decided, Lyman would always go along with it.

    That evening, Lyman and Effie joined the old man for dinner.

    Halfway through the meal, the entire room was plunged into darkness.

    Effie had just been sipping her soup and nearly snorted it out her nose in surprise.

    "Power''s out?" Bancroft asked, breaking the silence.

    "Yes, sir," the butler replied. "There''s an outage. I''ve already sent someone to check what''s going on."

    "Just a moment, I''ll have them bring some candles."

    Soon enough, the flicker of candlelight filled the room, restoring a warm, gentle glow.

    "What happened?" Bancroft asked. "Was it the house''s wiring, or is it outside?"

    The butler rushed back in. ¡°Sir, they''ve checked-it''s the external power supply. Workers from the utilitypany are already making repairs, but there''s no telling how long it''ll take."

    "I see," Bancroft said, looking over at Lyman. "Qur front gates are all electricz With the power out, none of them work. You''ll have to stay here tonight-wait until the electricityes back before you go."

    Lyman narrowed his eyes, watching Bancroft. Was it just his imagination, or did

    the old man actually seem excited as he said this?

    Effie shrugged. "It''s no problem. There''s no telling when the power will be back-

    no use running around in the dark."

    She nced at Lyman with a mischievous wink.

    "In that case, you''ll stay the night. I''ll have staff get your rooms

    "Bancroft said, unable to

    delight in his voice.

    belongs to .nox Co

 Chapter 367

    Bancroft followed right behind them, climbing the stairs at a measured pace. As soon as Effie and Lyman stepped into the room, there was a loud *thud*-the door mmed shut behind them.

    From the hallway came Bancroft''s anxious voice, apanied by the sound of his fist knocking on the door. "Oh dear! What now? Looks like the wind must''ve blown the door shut."

    Lyman turned on the shlight app on his phone and nced toward the window. Since they rarely stayed overnight in this room, the windows and doors were only opened at scheduled times for air cirction; otherwise, everything was kept tightly closed.

    There were no windows open at the moment-no draft, no airflow. There was no way a gust of wind could have mmed the door like that.

    Which meant Bancroft had done it on purpose.

    Just then, they heard the butler''s voice outside the door. "Sir, everything''s ready. The power won''t being back on before sunrise."

    Bancroft immediately shushed him, raising a finger to his lips. "Keep your voice down! They''ll hear you."

    "Alright, alright. I''ll be careful."

    Standing by the door, Effie and Lyman couldn''t help but exchange amused looks, grins tugging at their lips.

    Those two old men were both a little hard of hearing. Even though they were trying to keep their voices down, to Effie and Lyman-who had perfectly normal hearing-they might as well have been shouting. Every word came through loud and clear.

    Effie fanned herself with her hand. "Why is it so hot in here all of a sudden?"

    She tugged at her cor, trying to cool down.

    It wasn''t just her-Lyman felt it too.

    He frowned. "With this weather, there''s no reason it should be so warm. I bet the old man slipped something into our drinks."

    Effie just mumbled a distracted agreement. The heat was getting to her-her

    cheeks were flushed, her skin prickled, and she felt as though she might burst into mes at any moment.

    "So hot..."

    As her temperature climbed higher, Effie''s whole body felt

    hypersensitive. Every inch of her skin seemed alive to Lyman''s nearness, and her mind grew hazier by the minute, making it impossible to think straight.

    Lyman took a slow, shaky breath, struggling to keep his own desire in check. He scooped Effie up in his arms, unsteady on his feet as he carried her to the bed.

    There was nothing he could do-his

    mind was filled with images that definitely weren''t suitable for

    ???

    children, and Effie''s presence only stoke the fire. He felt like a starving wolf, eyes zing, desperate to devour her whole.

    Effie lost track of how many times she surrendered to the sensation. All she knew

    was that tonight, she was insatiable-an endless well, longing to be filled.

    When dawn finally broke, Effie slowly came to. She tried to stretch, only to discover she ached all over, as if she''d been run over by a truck.

    Biting back the pain, she turned toward Lyman''s side of the bed-only to find it empty.

    She reached out and felt the sheets where he''d slept. They were cold. He must have gotten up a while ago.

    Effie muttered to herself, "Could''ve at least woken me up..."

    That''s when she noticed a sticky note on the nightstand, written in Lyman''s bold, unmistakable

    handwriting: "An important guesmet

    arrive out of the blue. I have to go meet them. Make yourself at home, don''t be embarrassed. If you''re not feeling well, go stay with your grandmother-I''ll take care of everything else."

    Effie smiled to herself, feeling a gentle warmth in her chest. Even when something urgent came up, Lyman still thought of her.

    She got dressed and headed downstairs. Bancroft had already gone out for his morning walk, and the house was empty-almost as if it had all been arranged for her alone.

    She quickly said goodbye to the housekeeper, then slipped out the door.

    After all, everything here still felt unfamiliar. Without Lyman by her side, she had no desire to linger any longer.

 Chapter 368

    After Effie left, Bancroft finally stepped out of the room.

    "You''re clever as ever, sir," the butler said with a knowing smile. "Noticing that the young master had gone out, you guessed the youngdy wouldn''t want to stay put either. So you pretended to go for a walk yourself."

    Bancroft chuckled. "Of course. She''s a wonderful girl, just a bit shy still. Once she settles in, she won''t feel so uneasy."

    As Effie headed out, she nearly collided with someone just outside the door.

    Still startled, she blurted, "Are you alright?"

    The young man she''d nearly run into looked just as shaken. Pressing a hand to his chest, he managed a shakyugh. "I''m fine."

    Effie got out of the car, ncing over at the man. "Are you sure you''re okay? Do you need me to take you to a hospital or something?"

    She pulled out her phone and snapped a quick photo of him.

    He raised an eyebrow, a mix of amusement and exasperation on his face. "Miss, you don''t actually think I''m trying to scam you, do you?"

    Effie gave an embarrassed grin. "Sorry! I''ve just seen so many videostely about scam artists jumping in front of cars. Figured I''d better be cautious."

    He gave a wry smile. "Fair enough. But I promise, I''m not one of those people." After a brief pause, he asked, "Do you know which one is number 1002?"

    Effie had a good memory. After a few visits here, she''d memorized the area pretty well. She gave him directions, and after a quick thank you, he headed off.

    Effie didn''t rush to leave. Instead, she pulled out her phone and called the police, calmly exining what had just happened, recounting the details clearly and thoroughly.

    Meanwhile, the man realized he''d dropped something and returned to look for it- only to catch part of Effie''s phone conversation.

    He gave a helpless littleugh and muttered to himself, "Didn''t think I''d get

    mistaken for a criminal my first day back in the country."

    He spotted his fountain pen lying near Effie''s feet. After a moment''s hesitation, he walked over.

    He startled Effie, who jumped slightly at his sudden reappearance.

    "Sorry, didn''t mean to frighten you," he said, gesturing toward the pen on the ground. "I just dropped my pen and came back to get it."

    Only then did Effie realize she''d misunderstood. She quickly crouched down,

    picked up the pen, and handed it over. "Sorry about that."

    "No, no, I should be the one apologizing," he replied, epting the pen. "Thank you."

    "You''re wee."

    With all the polite formalities exchanged, an awkward silence fell between them. Effie broke it, offering, "If you start feeling unwell or anything, just let me know..." Just then, a sleek ck Cullinan pulled up. The man inside rolled down the window and called out, "Jacques Crawford!"

    Jacques''s face lit up when he recognized his friend. He waved, grinning.

    Seeing that her part in this was over, Effie got back into her car and drove away.

    As the engine roared to life, Jacques nced back and watched Effie''s car disappearing down the driveway. A flicker of disappointment crossed his face.

    Maxwell, the driver, shot him a

    teasing look. "What''s with you, man? You look like you''ve just seen a ghost-or maybe lost your soul to a pretty one?"

    Jacquesughed awkwardly. "I wouldn''t mind if she did take my soul. Trouble is, I don''t think she''s interested."

    "So what are you even doing out here?" Maxwell asked, still grinning. ¡°This is the Etheridge estate-home of the richest family in the country."

    Jacques shrugged, a little sheepish "I haven''t been around here in ages,

    took a wrong turn. Nearly got run §Ñ§é

    over by one of the Etheridges, actually."

    "That woman just now?" Maxwell had only caught a glimpse and

    hadn''t gotten a good look at Eff

    face but he''d definitely noticed it was a woman.

 Chapter 369

    Jacques couldn''t shake the image of Effie from his mind. Even without a trace of makeup, she radiated a natural beauty that drew every eye in the room-

    impossible to look away.

    "I need to find out who she is," he said, almost to himself.

    "How old is she?" Maxwell asked, ncing over.

    "Around twenty," Jacques replied.

    He''d spent years abroad, where women tended to look more mature. Back home again, he found it hard to judge the age of local girls-they all seemed so young and fresh-faced that pinning down a number felt almost impossible.

    "Early twenties, I guess..."

    Maxwell thought for a moment. "Well, the Etheridge family only has one young woman who matches that age range. Still, I can''t say for sure if she''s the one you met..."

    Jacques shot Maxwell a look of exasperation. "Could you be any more roundabout? Is it her or not? Who is she?"

    Maxwell shrugged. "If I had to guess, I''d say she''s the youngest daughter in the Etheridge family-Fidelia."

    "Fidelia..." Jacques tasted the name. "Free as a swallow, it suits her perfectly."

    Maxwell, hands on the wheel, waved a hand in front of Jacques'' face. ¡°Hey, snap out of it! A grown man like you, you''ve seen plenty of beautiful women. Didn''t think you''d turn into a lovesick fool over one."

    Jacques shot back, "You don''t get it. I swear, she''s the most stunning woman I''ve ever seen."

    Maxwell hesitated. "Seriously? Are you sure? Fidelia is pretty, sure, but she''s still so young-awkward even. I wouldn''t call her breathtaking."

    Jacques gave him a sideways look. ¡°That''s because you always go for the curvy types. We don''t exactly share the same taste."

    Maxwell shrugged inwardly. To each his own; beauty really is in the eye of the beholder. Still, for all Jacques'' years living abroad, Maxwell couldn''t help but think his taste had gotten worse, not better.

    ...

    At the airport, Lyman greeted Lionel Harper and his wife Yvette, apanied by the little girl at their side.

    The girl was their adopted daughter, Teresa Harper.

    The moment Teresa set foot in the terminal, her eyes darted everywhere, taking in

    the unfamiliar sights with open curiosity.

    Trying to put her at ease, Luther

    struck up a conversation: "Miss Harper, how do you like

    Neo-Arcadia? Things have changed so much here. You''re always wee to visit, travel the country, and experience the best of what we have to offer."

    Teresa abruptly stopped walking and frowned in open displeasure. "It''s... kind of disappointing, honestly. Everything looks so old and shabby. The houses are all brick and tile, and the streets are just dirt. You call this an international city? Compared to ckmire, it doesn''t evene close."

    Luther froze, his weing smile faltering. He''d only meant to make small talk,

    but clearly, he''d touched a nerve.

    Why were kids these days so bold?

    Lionel stepped in, his tone gentle but firm. "Teresa, that''s no way to speak. These brick houses are townhouses with a long history. Neo-Arcadia is a blend of old and new, East and West. The city keeps its original charm while embracing modern architecture. It''s a perfect example of tradition meeting innovation."

    One word from Lionel, and Teresa immediately fell silent. She hurried over to

    Yvette''s side, mumbling a soft, "Mommy."

    Yvette, though not Teresa''s biological mother, had raised her since she was small. To her, Teresa was every bit her own child.

 Chapter 370

    Sometimes, all it took was a nce or a subtle gesture from Teresa for Yvette to sense her mood shift or read her thoughts.

    "It''s alright," Yvette murmured gently, offeringfort.

    Only then did Teresa slowly nod, looking a bit more at ease.

    Luther quickly apologized, but Lionel, ever the easygoing type, didn''t think Luther was at fault at all-he saw no need for an apology.

    "Mr. Harper, you and your family havee such a long way-I hope we haven''t been remiss in our wee," Lyman said to Lionel with a cordial smile.

    Lionel shook his head. "No need for apologies. If anything, I should be the one to say sorry. I rushed over here because there''s something very important to me-l wanted to get it settled as soon as possible."

    "Anything you need, Mr. Harper, just say the word. I''ll do everything I can to help," Lyman replied.

    Lionel was the founder of The Harper Group, a name recognized across the globe.

    Beyond developing real estate in ckmire and throughout the maind, The Harper Group owned dozens of ports around the world, bothrge and small.

    Whenever The Etheridge Group needed to export their products, they inevitably had to work with The Harper Group.

    So, Lionel and Lyman had always maintained a strong rtionship.

    But this was the first time Lionel hade to the maind in such a high-profile manner, and the first time he had personally reached out to Lyman.

    "Thank you," Lionel said, his tone sincere.

    Then, ncing at Lyman, he asked, "I heard that you''re married now?"

    Lyman smiled. "Yes, I am."

    Lionel chuckled. "That''s truly a shame. I''d been hoping to introduce you to a few wonderfuldies from ckmire."

    After all, who doesn''t have a few personal motives? If Lyman had hit it off with one of the women Lionel introduced, it would have been a boon for The Harper Group''s ns to expand into the maind market.

    Pity, such a pity.

    Yvette studied Lyman''s handsome features, curiosity flickering in her eyes. What kind of person, she wondered, could have won his heart?

    Lyman personally escorted Lionel and his party to The Etheridge Group''s most luxurious hotel.

    After they settled in, he took them out for dinner at Elliott''s Cozy Room, a local favorite.

    Once all the arrangements were seen to and dinner finished, Lyman took his leave.

    Yvette turned to Lionel and said,

    "Honestly, Lyman''s quite the catch-handsome, wealthy, and exuding ss in everything he does. I was even thinking about setting him up with my niece, but... well, toote now."

    Lionelughed. "No point dwelling on it. He''s already married, so let''s put those

    little schemes to rest."

    Yvette always listened to Lionel. She nodded. "Of course."

    "So, when are we going to look for your mother?" Yvette asked.

    "I''ve already sent someone to make inquiries. We''ll hear something soon, I''m sure,¡± Lionel replied.

    "I hope we find her and bring her back to ckmire," Yvette said with a soft smile. "She can finally enjoy her golden years in peace."

    A shadow flickered in Lionel''s eyes. "We''ll see. She might not even want toe with me."

    For years, Jonel had believed his mother had abandoned him, and he hated her for it. Every letter she sent, he tore up without reading, swearing in front of his father that he''@never see that woman again.

    It wasn''t until this year, when his father was on his deathbed, that the truth finally

    came out.

    His father had been lying all along.

    His mother hadn''t run off and left

    her family. In reality, his father had cheated on her-and worse, had

    6eabusive. She''d had no choice

    but to leave.

    But his father couldn''t bear the thought of her taking Lionel away, and to protect

    his own image as a good father, he ndered her in front of Lionel.

    Learning the truth had left Lionel stunned and deeply regretful.

    He''d made a vow to himself: he would find his mother, apologize, and beg for her forgiveness.

    Lionel let out a long, heavy sigh.

 Chapter 371

    "Mr. Etheridge, would you like me to drive you back to the old manor?" Luther asked.

    Earlier today, when Luther hade to the manor to see Lyman, he''d learned from him that Effie was still asleep upstairs. Lyman had wanted to bring Effie along when he left, but she''d looked so peaceful, he''d decided not to wake her and headed out alone.

    "No need," Lyman replied. ¡°Let''s go back to The Marble Heights."

    "Alright."

    When Lyman returned home, he unlocked the door and was greeted by an empty, silent house.

    "Effie? Grandma?" he called.

    No one answered.

    For a moment, Lyman froze in confusion, then pulled out his phone, ready to call Effie. Just then,ughter drifted in from the direction of the stairs. Looking up, he saw Effie and her grandmother emerging from the elevator, arms linked.

    Effie carried a grocery basket in one hand.

    Catching sight of Lyman, she waved excitedly and called out with a bright smile, "You''re back!"

    Relief washed over Lyman as he smiled back. "Did you go shopping?"

    Effie nodded. "Yeah. Grandma says there''s only a supermarket in our building, not much choice, and nothing''s really fresh. So I took her to the local farmer''s market nearby. We brought back loads of food, and tonight, I''m cooking."

    Lyman realized that in all the time he''d known Effie, this might be the first time she''d offered to cook herself. He couldn''t help but feel a little anticipation.

    "Sounds great."

    Effie grinned. "By the way, who did you meet with today? You left so early this morning."

    "A businessman from ckmire,st name Harper-"

    Suddenly, there was a loud thud as something heavy hit the floor. Both Lyman and Effie turned to see what had happened. Grandma, while unpacking, had dropped something.

    "Grandma, are you alright?"

    Sheughed it off. "I''m fine, just fumbled a bit."

    Effie took the item from her hand. ¡°Grandma, why don''t you go sit down and

    rx? I''ve got dinner tonight-you just wait and enjoy."

    Grandma looked at her, eyebrows raised in concern. "Are you sure you want to cook?"

    Effie winked. ¡°Grandma,e on, making dinner isn''t rocket science."

    Grandma gave her a long, meaningful look, then quietly shuffled out of the kitchen.

    Once she was sure Effie couldn''t hear, Grandma tugged Lyman aside and lowered her voice. "Lyman, trust me-you might want to order some takeout in advance."

    He looked surprised. "Why? She seems pretty confident in the kitchen."

    Grandma sighed. "Don''t be fooled by appearances. She looks like the picture of the perfect housewife, but her mother never taught her how to cook, and when she moved in with me, felt bad making her leam. Her cooking is... let''s just say, edible is as good as it gets."

    Lyman shrugged, unconcerned. "As long as it''s cooked through, I''ll be fine.¡±

    Grandma shook her head, clearly unconvinced that he understood what wasing. ¡°Lyman,e here, show me how to order takeout on my phone."

    He watched as Grandma, sses perched on her nose, fiddled with the food delivery app. He couldn''t help but think she might be overreacting a little.

    Then "Whoa-!"

    A loud sizzle from the kitchen, followed by Effie''s shriek, cut him off. Instinctively, both Lyman and Grandma hurried toward the sound. Grandma''s pace was no match for Lyman''s, so by the time she reached the kitchen, Lyman was already there, snapping the lid onto the pan. The small burst of mes died out as the lid shut tight, leaving Effie wide-eyed and breathless in the middle of her culinary adventure.

 Chapter 372

    Effie nced at Lyman, still a bit shaken. "I... I really don''t know what happened. The heat was just so intense."

    Lyman gently patted her on the shoulder, his voice soothing. "Don''t worry. It''s probably just this stove running a little too hot. It''s not your fault at all."

    Lyman always knew how tofort people. When things went wrong, he''d me the tools-the oven, the utensils, the recipe-never the person. In his eyes, how could it ever be Effie''s fault? It was always the equipment acting up.

    He turned to her, a sudden spark in his eyes. "You know what? I''ve got this urge to cook. Why don''t you go rx in the living room and let me whip something up for you?"

    Effie hesitated. "But... isn''t that unfair? I promised I''d cook tonight. How about I just help out?"

    Lyman could tell there''d be no persuading her otherwise. If he didn''t let her stay, she''d never agree to leave the kitchen.

    So, Effie busied herself alongside him, though half the time it was unclear what exactly she was helping with. After a flurry of chopping, stirring, and clinking dishes, dinner was finally served. All three at the table breathed a sigh of relief.

    "This is delicious," Effie said, grinning.

    "That''s only because you helped," Lyman replied, smiling back at her. "I couldn''t have made anything half as good without you."

    "Really?" she asked, her eyes lighting up.

    "Really."

    They exchanged a look, their faces glowing with happiness.

    ***

    At the hospital, Suzany sprawled on her bed, scrolling aimlessly through her phone. Boredom practically radiated off her.

    "Mom, when can I go home? I''m going stir-crazy here," Suzanined.

    Vera watched her daughter with aching sympathy. Suzan had always been so full

    of life, always running and jumping around, but now she was trapped in this tiny hospital room.

    What stung even more was that

    Mitchell and Adeline hadn''te by

    to visit again-not even once.

    was

    as if to the Lloyd family, Suzan was

    nothing more than a surrogate.

    The thought made Vera furious, but she knew she couldn''t confront them. It would

    only make things worse.

    iet

    "You''re doing so well, sweetheart. Just a little while longer, and you be up and moving again," she said, brushing a stray hair off Suzan''s forehead.

    Suzan let out a dramatic sigh, still bored but with no other choice.

    Just then, Shepard walked in unexpectedly.

    Seeing him during work hours, Vera was surprised. "Honey, I thought you were at the office for meetings today?"

    Shepard opened his mouth as if to say something, hesitated, then mped it shut.

    Vera caught the look and guessed he was holding back because of Suzan. "Don''t worry. We''re all family here."

    Shepard hesitated a moment longer, then finally spoke. "Someone came to see me today, asking if I knew a woman named Leonora."

    "Leonora..." Vera repeated, frowning as she tried to ce the name. "Why does that sound so familiar?"

    Suddenly, her face changed. "I remember now. That''s Adriana''s mother-the old bat! Her name is Leonora!"

    Shepard nodded. "That''s right. The guy said his boss is Leonora''s son, and he''s desperate to reconnect with his mother."

    He leanedan a little, lowering his voice. "Think about it-Effie is that old woman''s granddaughter. If we can convince her to reunite with them, we''ll be set for life."

    No sooner had the words left his mouth than Vera and Suzan burst outughing.

    "Dad, you do realize it''s broad daylight? Daydreaming at this hour is really something," Suzan teased.

    Shepard scowled, his brow furrowing in frustration. "Well, what do you suggest we do, then?"

 Chapter 373

    Suzan nced at her father, testing the waters. "Dad, is that guy really rich?"

    "Rich?" Shepard gave a dry chuckle. "He''s in the top ten of the global billionaire rankings. That''s not just rich-that''s unimaginably wealthy."

    He went on, "Lyman can''t evenpare to Lionel. Because Bancroft has three sons, the shares are split up. But Lionel? He owns The Harper Group outright¡ª seventy percent of the whole thing is his."

    Suzan blinked in disbelief. "So his worth must be in the hundreds of billions?"

    "Exactly." Shepard nodded.

    His own fortune, stacked up against Lionel''s, was like a drop in the ocean.

    Suzan''s eyes sparkled, her mind racing with possibilities. If only she had that kind of money-she''d be set for life!

    But Vera was the first to recover. "Honey, are you thinking straight?" she said, nudging Shepard. "You really believe that just because you find Effie, she''ll help you? Did you forget how she and that old woman humiliated you thest time you went looking for them?"

    Shepard''s face clouded. He had remembered and that was exactly why he hesitated now.

    If Effie''s heart had been with him and Suzan, he would have told her about the family connection long ago.

    Vera pressed on, "Effie''s doing just fine now-she doesn''t need us. The ones struggling are us! Look at Suzan, going through so much for the Lloyds, and have they evene to visit her once?"

    "Why do you think that is?" Vera pinched herself hard, forcing out a few tears. "It''s because the Lloyd family thinks they''re better than us. They look down on your little business-on all of us."

    The truth was, Adeline didn''t really look down on The Bagnold Group. She just couldn''t stand Vera. But Vera wasn''t about to split hairs now-she''d twist the story however she needed to.

    The only thing that mattered was convincing Shepard to give Suzan this shot.

    And she could see he was wavering.

    Sensing her chance, Vera leaned in, her voice urgent. "Think about it. If Suzan had a billionaire

    uncle-someone with real power and status wouldn''t the Lloyds have to bow their heads? We''d have our pick of eligible bachelors for Suzan, not just the Lloyds!¡±

    Suzan had been nodding along, but at this, her face changed. "No," she said firmly. "I only love Mitchell."

    Vera shook her head, exasperated. "You''re hopeless-head over heels, just like I was..." She caught Shepard watching her closely and quickly changed tack, "Just like me-once I fall for someone, I can''t evendook at anyone else."

    Shepard seemed pleased with that answer.

    Vera straightened up. "Whatever happens, as long as we im that rich rtive, nobody will dare look down on us again," she dered.

    "Oh, and while I was packing, I found Adriana''s old photo album. I was going to toss it, but now it mighte in handy."

    "Why didn''t you tell me about this before?" Shepard asked.

    Vera thought to herself, If I''d told you, who knows what you''d do? You''d probably start pining for her all over again, and that would be a disaster.

    She knew all too well she wasn''t as beautiful as Adriana. If she hadn''t yed her cards right back then, Shepard would never have chosen her.

    Adriana was gone now, no threat to her. What worried Vera most was if Shepard suddenly remembered how good Adriana was and started doting on Effie-the girl she''d left behind. If that happened, all the affection and benefits might flow to Effie, and Vera and Suzan would be left with nothing.

 Chapter 374

    She would never allow something like that to happen.

    Shepard said, ¡°Let me think for a moment. We need a n."

    The three of them huddled together, each offering their own ideas. Their goal was the same: they wanted to acknowledge Lionel as family, but couldn''t let Effie and the others find out.

    Effie and Nita were out shopping together. Nita had just closed a major deal that day, earning herself a generousmission. Feeling ted, she insisted on treating Effie to a day out and a good meal.

    Suddenly, Nita sneezed. Sheughed, "Honestly, every time I have free time, I drag you out with me to shop or hang out. Isn''t your husband going to hate me for stealing you away all the time?"

    Effie grinned. "You sneeze because your nose tickles, and now you''re ming my husband for it?"

    Nita rolled her eyes. "Listen to you! Always leaping to his defense! You''re not the same Effie you used to be."

    Effie looked at her helplessly. "I swear, I haven''t changed."

    Meanwhile, Jacques was trudging along behind his mother, Cami, as she browsed one boutique after another. For him, being dragged out like this was pure torture.

    Bored, he let his eyes wander around the mall-when suddenly, out of the corner of his eye, he caught a glimpse of an unexpected face.

    It was the girl he''d seen at the gates of the Etheridge family estate that day.

    Fidelia!

    Jacques muttered her name under his breath and immediately hurried in Effie''s direction.

    His mother, Cami, had just spotted a ne she liked. She turned to ask, "Jacques, what do you think of this one?"

    There was no reply.

    Cami spun around, only to find that her son, who''d been right beside her a moment ago, was already halfway to the entrance.

    She called after him a few times, but Jacques didn''t seem to hear.

    But when Jacques rushed outside, Effie was nowhere to be seen.

    A wave of disappointment washed over him. Had he imagined it? Was he missing

    Effie so much that he''d started seeing her everywhere?

    At that moment, Fidelia was walking by with a cup of tea in her hand when someone bumped into her, nearly knocking her over.

    Jacques happened to be right next to her. He reacted instantly, steadying Fidelia before she could fall.

    For a moment, Fidelia stood frozen. When she realized who had caught her, her heart skipped a beat-Jacques, with that strikingly handsome face.

    "Th-thank you," Fidelia stammered, still dazed.

    Once Jacques saw she was okay, he quickly let go and said, "As long as you''re alright."

    Fidelia could feel her heart pounding so loudly it seemed ready to leap from her chest.

    Just before she''d been bumped, she thought she heard someone call her name which was probably why gotten distracted in the first

    she''

    §Ú§Þ

    ce.

    She never expected a random ident would lead to such a strange and

    wonderful encounter.

    But Jacques had his mind elsewhere-still preupied with thoughts of Effie-so he hurriedly excused himself and walked away.

    Cami, who had followed him out, witnessed the whole thing. For the first time, she saw her son, who''d always seemed so indifferent to women, being so attentive to a girl.

    Once she got a good look at Fidelia, Cami''s mind started turning with new ideas.

    "Fidelia?"

    "Mrs. Crawford." Fidelia greeted her with a warm, polite smile.

    The more Cami looked at Fidelia, the more she liked her. She nodded approvingly. "Are you out shopping today?"

    "Yes, I''m meeting a friend to catch a movie," Fidelia answered.

    "A boyfriend?" Cami couldn''t help asking, even though it was a bit forward.

    Fidelia blushed and shook her head. ¡°No, just a college friend."

    Almost involuntarily, she added, "She''s a girl."

    Cami felt a surge of hope-maybe there was a chance here!

    She smiled, "That young man you just met is my son, Jacques. He''s just returned from studying abroad,

    astly, he''s still a big kid at

    heart."

    Fidelia''s eyes lit up instantly.

 Chapter 375

    Fidelia had been worrying about how to find information on that man from earlier, but luck was on her side today-just as she needed an answer, the opportunity practically fell into herp.

    Still, she didn''t press for details. As a young woman from a prominent family, she carried herself with a certain dignity.

    She smiled and said to Cami, "Mrs. Crawford, would you mind passing along my thanks to him?"

    "Of course, dear," Cami replied warmly.

    Fidelia grinned. "I''m off to catch my movie-the show''s about to start."

    "Go on, then! Don''t miss the best part," Cami encouraged her.

    With a spring in her step, Fidelia walked away. She had the odd feeling that

    Cami''s gaze lingered on her, but she couldn''t be sure if she was just imagining

    it.

    In fact, Cami did watch Fidelia and her ssmate head toward the cinema before finally turning her attention elsewhere.

    "Not bad, not bad at all," she murmured to herself.

    Just then, Jacques returned, looking a little dejected.

    He hadn''t been able to find Effie, and disappointment was written all over his face.

    Cami asked, ¡°Where did you run off to just now? You disappeared so quickly!"

    He didn''t want to talk about it; failing to find Effie had left him in a foul mood. "I just had something urgent to take care of," he said curtly.

    Cami assumed he meant he''d needed the restroom and let the matter drop.

    As they neared home, Cami turned to Jacques and asked, "What do you think of that young woman from earlier?"

    Jacques'' eyes flickered-he wondered if Cami knew he''d gone after Effie. "Which young woman?"

    "Today''s guest-the Etheridge family''s daughter, Fidelia. She''s lovely, isn''t she? Polite and well-educated."

    Until now, Jacques hadn''t been sure if the girl he''d seen was truly the Etheridge heiress, but now that Cami confirmed it, he knew he hadn''t been mistaken.

    "She''s nice, isn''t she, Mom?" he replied.

    Cami nodded. With Fidelia''s background, there was nothing to criticize.

    "She may not be from the senior branch of the Etheridge family, but she''s their only daughter, and the

    whole family dotes on her. Whoever marries her will have a brigh@future ahead."

    Jacques pulled a face he had no interest in family politics.

    When he liked someone, it was simply because he liked them, nothing more.

    Meanwhile, Effie and Nita were strolling through the mall when they suddenly saw someone copse ahead of them.

    They exchanged a look and rushed over.

    Others had witnessed the fall too, but most just stood around, unwilling to step in and help.

    Effie quickly checked the man and realized his heart had stopped and his breathing was barely there.

    "I learned CPR at a training session," Effie said, kneeling beside him. "Let me try."

    "Okay, I''ll call for an ambnce,¡± Nita replied, fumbling for her phone.

    With no sign of the paramedics yet, Effie kept up the chestpressions.

    Nita could see how exhausted Effie was bing, but she didn''t give up. "Keep going, Effie," she encouraged softly.

    Effie pressed her lips together, silent,

    didn''t dare pause, knowing that any

    She was tired, but she

    x could undo all her ha

    efforts.

    Atst, the medics arrived. Miraculously, the man''s heart started beating again

    just in time.

    The lead paramedic praised her, "Ma''am, your technique is

    excellent-you saved him durim

    those crucial first minutes! Are you a professional doctor?"

    Effie shook her head. "No, but mypany values this kind of training. They

    made sure we all learned emergency response skills."

    She''d taken the lessons especially seriously, knowing her grandmother lived with them-danger coulde at any time.

 Chapter 376

    She never expected those first aid lessons would actuallye in handy.

    Effie remembered the training well. The instructor had said that if you started CPR within four minutes of cardiac arrest, the chances of saving someone were much

    higher.

    Past those four minutes, brain cells could start suffering irreversible damage from theck of oxygen.

    Watching the man regain his breathing before being taken away by the paramedics, both Effie and Nita let out a collective sigh of relief.

    Nita cleared her throat, then reached out as if holding an invisible microphone. "Let''s do a quick interview-Miss Effie, were you scared at all just now? When you rushed over to help, did it cross your mind that he or his family might turn on you and me you if things went wrong?"

    Effie shook her head. "Honestly, my mind wentpletely nk. I just wanted him to start breathing again. There wasn''t time to think about anything else."

    "I mean, it''s a living, breathing person. How could I just stand by and do nothing?"

    Nita grinned. "Seriously, you''re amazing."

    "You look exhausted. I''m treating you to a massagee on, you deserve to rx." Nita insisted.

    Effie gave a rueful smile. "Don''t even joke, I really need it. My arms feel like they''re about to fall off."

    To Effie, the whole incident was just a small detour in her day. By the next morning, it was already fading from her mind.

    But when she got to work, someone unexpectedly came looking for her.

    Effie groaned inwardly. Please don''t let this be more trouble.

    Then a man appeared in the doorway, catching her off guard.

    "You''re..."

    The man stepped forward. "Hi, I''m Lionel. You saved my lifest night. If it weren''t

    for you, I wouldn''t have made it until the ambnce arrived."

    Effie replied, "It was nothing, just doing what anyone would do."

    Lionel asked, "Do you know who I am?"

    Effie found the question a bit odd, but something in his eyes gave her a hint.

    She answered, "Honestly, I didn''t know who you werest night and I still don''t, I''m not interested in your identity. You don''t need to thank

    me-it was just basic de thank ne

    Anyone else would have done the same. In the end, it was the doctors at the hospital who really saved you."

    Lionel looked stunned, clearly not expecting that response.

    Then he broke into a broad grin. "Either way, I really want to thank you. How about letting me buy you dinner?"

    Effie''s guard went up. "That''s not necessary."

    Lionelughed, picking up on her wariness. He''d half expected her to try to cozy up to him, but apparently, she was more worried about his intentions.

    She really was an interesting one.

    He handed her his business card. "No worries. Take this if you ever need anything, give me a call."

    Effie took the card. "Thank you."

    Lionel left, and Effie slipped his card into her purse without a second thought.

    That evening, Lyman called. "Want toe with me to a dinner tonight?" "Sure," Effie replied.

    "I''ll have Luther pick you up."

    Effie hesitated. "Is this a formal event? Should I dress up?"

    Lyman

    rxed, but Effie

    if it was a formal

    gathering and she showed

    underdressed, it would embarrass

    him.

    "Don''t worry, it''s just a casual get-together. Wear whatever you like," Lyman told her.

    Effie nodded, feeling a little relieved.

 Chapter 377

    When Effie arrived at Elliott''s Cozy Room, she nearly collided with Suzan, who was pale as a ghost and clutching her lower back on her way to one of the private dining rooms.

    Suzan froze at the sight of Effie, a flicker of terror shing in her eyes.

    Effie found it odd. She hadn''t done anything to Suzantely, so why did Suzan look at her as if she''d seen a specter?

    Could it be that Suzan had a guilty conscience about something?

    Effie walked closer.

    Suzan stepped in front of her, blocking her path, her tone icy. "Effie, what are you doing here?"

    Suzan''s mind was racing. Did Effie know something? If she did, Suzan would do whatever it took to get rid of her. After all, she''d finally found a chance at happiness-she couldn''t let Effie ruin it.

    Effie answered coolly, "I''m here for dinner, obviously. Or should I be here acting crazy like you?"

    "You-"

    Suzan''s hands pressed protectively against her swollen belly. Her breathing grew rapid and shallow, as if she might faint at any moment.

    Effie shot her a cold look. "What now? nning to y dead again? I haven''tid a finger on you."

    Effie raised her hand, ncing deliberately toward the security camera in the

    corner.

    Suzan gritted her teeth. At that moment, the door to the private room swung open and Lionel stepped out.

    When he spotted Effie, his face lit up with surprise and delight. "Miss Bagnold! Fancy seeing you here again."

    Effie offered a nomittal nod, her eyes flicking to the number on the door behind Lionel. She''d wondered if she''d gotten the room wrong, but apparently not.

    Suzan''s heart skipped a beat. So Lionel and Effie had already met? Did Effie know something after all?

    Just then, Lyman emerged from the private room as well.

    He beamed when he saw Effie. "There you are! Why didn''t youe in?"

    Effie jerked her chin toward Suzan.

    Lyman followed her gaze. Suzan''s throat tightened, and for a moment she thought she''d lost her voice.

    Maybe it was her guilty conscience, but Suzan couldn''t shake the fear her secret would be exposed.

    Lionel took the opportunity to introduce Suzan to Effie. "Let me introduce you- this is my niece."

    Niece?

    Effie narrowed her eyes at Suzan.

    She''d already looked into Lionel''s background, which exined why he''d asked her those pointed questions before. But if Suzan really had such a powerful uncle, why hadn''t she ever bragged about it?

    Suzan never struck anyone as the modest type quite the opposite, in fact.

    Feeling Effie''s gaze, Suzan grew visibly tense, but she forced herself not to show

    it.

    Lionel turned to Suzan and said, "I came back this time to reconnect with family, and I''m d I did. At least now, I have one more person I can call my own."

    Suzan managed a strained smile. "I''m grateful too. I never knew I had such an amazing uncle."

    As she spoke, her eyes reddened and tears welled up, threatening to spill at any moment.

    Lionel, rough around the edges and not exactly known for his

    sensitivity his wife often teased him about how clueless he could be-couldn''t help but soften at the sight of Suzan''s trembling lip "Come on now, don''t cry. Your uncle''s here; I won''t let anyone hurt you again."

    Suzan nodded obediently. "Thank you, Uncle."

    Effie couldn''t shake the feeling that was off, but without any

    somethi

    proof, she knew saying anything would be pointless. Lionel would

    never take her word for it.

    At that moment, Lyman introduced Effie to Lionel, reaching for her hand. "And this

    is my wife, Effie."

 Chapter 378

    "I never imagined fate would bring us together like this. You saved me yesterday, and here we are meeting again today and you''re even my business partner''s wife," Lionel said with a smile.

    "Saved you?" Suzan nced curiously at Effie and Lionel, feigning concern as she looked at Lionel. "Uncle, what happened? Are you not feeling well, or...?"

    Lionel brushed her off with an easy smile. "It was nothing, really. I just felt a bit unwell, but I''m perfectly fine now. No need to worry."

    "That''s a relief," Suzan replied, her tone warm.

    Despite Suzan''s apparent closeness with Lionel, Effie couldn''t shake a vague sense of difort, as if something about the whole situation was off.

    "Let''s not just stand around. Why don''t we go inside and take a seat?" Lyman suggested.

    The group made their way into a private dining room and settled around the table.

    Perhaps Suzan was eager to make a good impression on Lionel; she was on her best behavior that evening, never once making things difficult for Effie or even bringing her up in conversation. For a moment, Effie wondered if Suzan had undergone some miraculous transformation. Yet, the more Suzan acted this way, the more unsettling it felt.

    Suzan''s pregnancy was showing-she excused herself to the restroom several times.

    During one such absence, Effie finally leaned toward Lionel and spoke in a low voice, ¡°Mr. Harper, when you and Suzan reconnected, did you ever confirm things officially? Like a DNA test? Are you certain she''s really your niece?"

    Lionel''s smile vanished. He fixed Effie with a chilly stare. "Miss Bagnold, why would you ask me something like that? Do you think I''m so gullible I could be tricked?"

    Lionel was a man who valued his dignity above all else and couldn''t stand anyone who looked down on him.

    He wasn''t like the other rich kids¡ªhe''d grown upfortable, but after his parents'' divorce, everything fell apart. His father spiraled, the family business copsed, and Lionel ended up scraping by with his dad in one of the roughest parts of Rust Row.

    He''d wed his way back up, and every step had been hard-won. That fierce

    pride made him constantly wary that others might think less of him.

    Effie''s question, to him, was a p in the face-like she thought he was some fool who couldn''t even recognize his own family.

    1.n

    Effie rushed to exin. "I''m sorry, I didn''t mean it like that. It''s just that Suzan..." She trailed off. No, even if she spoke the truth now, Lionel would probably suspect her of?ying or trying to nder Suzan. "Igust think it''s important to be careful with something so major. This is for life, after all. It doesn''t hurt to go through the right steps-better safe than sorry, you know?"

    Lionel''s expression stayed cool. "Thank you for your concern, Miss Bagnold, but I''m not a fool. I did everything by the book. I wouldn''t have acknowledged Suzan otherwise."

    With that, Effie knew she couldn''t press the issue any further.

    She managed a small smile. ¡°You''re right. I was overthinking things."

    Lyman slipped his arm around Effie''s shoulders, his voice gentle. "Mr. Harper, my

    wife is just cautious by nature. She meant no harm."

    He squeezed Effie''s hand beneath the table-a quiet signal of reassurance,

    letting her know he was right there with her.

    Effie turned to meet Lyman''s gaze, his warmth settling her nerves.

    Lionel gave a cordial smile. "Mr. Etheridge, Mrs. Etheridge, let''s not dwell on it. It''s all in the past."

    Hearing this, Effie finally felt herself rx a little.

    Still, a knot of unease lingered in her chest-something she couldn''t quite swallow or spit out.

 Chapter 379

    Suzan stood in the doorway, her hand gripping the handle so tightly her knuckles stood out white against her skin.

    That wretched Effie-she was starting to question who Suzan really was.

    Suzan needed toe up with a way to get rid of Effie. And soon.

    She drew a long breath, schooling her features into calm before she opened the door and took her seat at the table, moving with deliberate grace.

    "Uncle, I''m done eating. I should get back to the hospital," Suzan said to Lionel. Lionel sprang to his feet. "Of course. Let me walk you out."

    It was clear how much Lionel cared for her.

    Meanwhile, Effie and Lyman, hand in hand, were just leaving Elliott''s Cozy Room when they ran into Randell and Vinson Elliott at the entrance.

    Vinson grinned. "So that''s why you''ve been dodging my calls, Lyman. You''ve got a beautiful woman in your arms now and no time for us lonely bachelors."

    Lyman shot him a cool re. "Why don''t you bark for us, then?"

    Vinson turned to Randell, putting on a wounded expression. "You see this, Ray? He''s bullying me."

    Randell rolled his eyes. "Well, go on-give us a couple barks. You act like a stray half the time anyway."

    Vinson sputtered. "Seriously? Are you both insane?"

    Ignoring him, Randell addressed Lyman, "Lyman, never mind him. I need to talk to you about something."

    He gave Effie a meaningful nce.

    Lyman caught on immediately. "It''s fine. Go ahead. Effie''s my wife. She can hear anything."

    Randell shrugged. "Doesn''t bother me. I just thought you might want to keep this from her."

    Effie, sensing the tension, smiled politely. "It''s all right. I''ll give you two a moment," she offered, already stepping away.

    Lyman frowned slightly but slipped an arm around her shoulders. "It''s fine. Go ahead."

    Randell sighed. "All right, but don''t me me. You asked for it."

    Lyman scowled. "You always have to make it a production, don''t you?"

    Randell was used to his friend''s sharp tongue by now.

    "I heard you''ve got and development project that''s been put on hold by Mr. Lawrence. He''s refusing to sign off, right?"

    Randell looked at Lyman as if to say: See? I didn''t want to bring this up, but you forced my hand.

    Effie turned to Lyman in surprise. He seemed so unbothered-how had she never heard about this?

    Lyman replied, "It''s nothing. I''ll handle it."

    Randell pressed on. "I did a bit of digging. Turns out your Uncle Fowler is behind it, pulling some strings."

    Uncle Fowler?

    Effie''s heart skipped a beat, and she instinctively tightened her hold on Lyman''s hand.

    Was Fowler doing this to get back at Lyman for making Fidelia kneel as punishment?

    Lyman shrugged. "That''s just his

    usual scheming. It''s nothing

    e likes to stir up trouble

    $1

    now and then, but he''s not a real

    threat."

    Randell nodded. "From the sound of it, you''ve got it under control. I''ll stay out of it, then."

    "Yeah," Lyman replied simply.

    Vinson sidled up, eyes twinkling mischievously. "Lyman, want toe out for a drink with us?"

    He was curious: deep down, would Lyman choose his wife or the friends who''d been by his side for years?

    Lyman didn''t hesitate. "I''m taking my wife home."

    Vinson clucked his tongue. "Wow, Lyman. You''ve changed."

    Lyman shot back, "I don''t hang out with lonely bachelors."

    Vinson was indignant. "Oh, so now you''re looking down on us?"

    "Absolutely."

    Before Vinson could protest further, Randell mped a hand over his mouth With his muffled yelps, he really did sound like a barking dog which was probably why everyone said he resembled one.

    Randell turned to him. "Enough, man. Stop embarrassing yourself."

    With that, he dragged Vinson away.

    Lyman nced at Effie, relieved. "Finally, some peace and quiet."

    Effieughed. "I like it. Watching you all banter reminds me of me and Nita. We''re always teasing each other-that''s how you know the friendship''s real."

 Chapter 380

    "Yeah."

    Lyman didn''t argue with Effie, because deep down, he felt exactly the same way.

    Effie went on, "Honestly, if you wanted to go out with them for a bit, I wouldn''t stop you. Just because we''re married doesn''t mean we have to be glued together all the time, right?"

    Before she finished speaking, Lyman squeezed her hand tightly.

    Effie nced up and saw the tense furrow between his brows.

    His gaze wasplicated as he looked at her. "Already tired of me?"

    Tired? As if!

    "No, that''s not it. I just mean... getting married doesn''t mean you have to give up your friends. You deserve your own space too."

    Lyman shook his head. "I don''t want it. I like being with you. All the time."

    Effie was caught off guard for a moment. "You''ll get sick of me."

    "I won''t. Never," Lyman said, firm and unwavering.

    Something mmed into Effie''s heart, making it beat wildly. She gripped his hand even tighter.

    "Ready to go home?" Lyman asked softly.

    She nodded. "Yeah."

    As soon as they got inside the elevator, Lyman slipped his arm around Effie''s waist and pulled her close, so quickly she stumbled into his chest.

    He tilted her chin up. Effie stared at him, wide-eyed, her gaze shining and ssy, as if she were standing in a pool of starlight¡ªmesmerizing, impossible to look away from.

    Lyman suddenly closed the distance, his handsome face filling her vision, then blurring as he pressed his lips to hers in a fierce, possessive kiss. Effie never stood a chance-she could only melt into his arms and surrender.

    The elevator doors slid open again. They were home.

    Effie managed to gather her wits, gently pushing Lyman away as she caught her breath. "Let''s go to our room..."

    Lyman''s eyes darkened. He took a deep breath, clearly struggling to tamp down his longing.

    He unlocked the door. The living room was pitch ck-her grandmother must have already gone to bed.

    Hand in hand, they tiptoed to their room, careful not to make a sound.

    The moment the door closed behind them, Lyman caught Effie''s wrists and pinned her hands above head, trapping her between him and the wall.

    His other hand gripped her waist, pressing her body firmly against his, leaving not

    a sliver of space between them.

    Even through the thin fabric of her clothes, Effie could feel the heat radiating from him.

    Lyman''s lips found hers again in another deep, hungry kiss. Effie could only gasp, a soft whimper escaping her.

    It was like a feather brushing over Lyman''s everyst nerve. He lost all restraint¡ª he wanted her,pletely.

    The next morning, Effie woke in Lyman''s arms, her cheeks still flushed.

    Lyman was already awake, propped up on one elbow, watching her with a satisfied smile. "Morning."

    Effie murmured a sleepy reply.

    She couldn''t help wondering whe

    Lyman got all his energy. After everything that happened yesterday,

    he

    Coas still so lively, as if nothing

    could faze him.

    She said, "I didn''t get a chance to ask youst night, so tell me honestly: Was

    Uncle Fowler giving you a hard time because of me?"

    Lyman was surprised she''d held onto that question all night.

    He gently brushed a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "It has nothing to do with you. He''s always like that. He and Uncle Healy both have it out for

    me. They want me out of The

    Etheridge Group."

    "Really? It''s not because of me?"

    "They''ve had all sorts of reasons to go after me. What happened with you is nothingpared to the rest."

    Suddenly, Lyman rolled over, bracing himself with his arms on either side of her, looking down at Effie from above.

 Chapter 381

    Effie froze, forgetting what she was supposed to do, her gaze locked on Lyman as her breathing slowed.

    "What now?" Lyman''s voice was rough, his eyes fixed on her. There was

    something about his gaze-dark and deep, as if he could pull her in and never let go.

    "Hm?" Effie looked at him, puzzled.

    "This is all your fault," Lyman said quietly.

    Before Effie could react, he leaned in and kissed her again...

    By the time Effie and Lyman slipped quietly out of the house, her grandmother had already left. Breakfast sat waiting on the table, alongside a neat note in her grandmother''s graceful handwriting: "Gone to buy groceries. Make sure you eat before heading to work."

    Effie said, "I want to get Grandma a car. Whenever we''re busy, she has to take the bus everywhere-it''s just not convenient."

    Lyman nodded. "Alright. I''lle with you to pick one out for her."

    "Aren''t you going to ask if she even knows how to drive?" Effie joked.

    Lyman shot her an amused look. "If she didn''t, why would you buy her a car? Wouldn''t it just take up space in the garage?"

    He remembered how Effie had turned down his offer to get her a better car. She''d insisted she already had one, and for her dailymute, something simple was enough. She''d used that same reasoning to refuse him.

    Originally, Effie had nned to let her grandmother use her own car, since she usually rode to work with Lyman anyway. She didn''t really need it.

    But her grandmother thought the old gas car was too much trouble-she wanted something electric.

    Effie exined, "Grandma got her license when she was young and she''s always been driving. Later, when Grandpa got sick and needed money for treatment, the family had to sell almost everything-including her beloved car."

    "She really loves driving-loves taking the car out for a spin. Even now, in her seventies, she goes for a medical check-up every year, passes all the tests, and keeps her license tucked in her purse, just in case."

    Lyman squeezed Effie''s shoulder gently. "From now on, I won''t let something like that happen to your family again."

    Effie just gave a nomittal hum.

    In her mind, promises meant little. The only person she could truly rely on was herself.

    Shepard had once sworn up and down he''d take care of her mother and their family. But when Grandpa fell ill and they needed money Shepard always found an excuse-he never came through.

    It''s like that old saying: only you know if the water you drink is warm or cold.

    After work, Effie headed home to take her grandmother car shopping.

    "In such a hurry? Aren''t you going to talk it over with Lyman?" her grandmother asked.

    "I already did," Effie replied. "He had

    ast-minute meeting with some international partners, so he told me

    to take you first. If you find

    something you like, we''ll buy it.4f

    not, we''ll wait for him ande back together."

    Her grandmother nodded. "That works."

    At the dealership, Effie turned to her. "So, which one catches your eye?"

    Her grandmother leaned in, whispering, "This one''s a foreign make. Looks expensive. Let''s look at the others¡ªthe domestic brands are more affordable these days."

    Effie thought to herself that price didn''t matter. If Grandma liked a car, imported or not, she''d buy it for her.

    Truth was, her grandmother had her eye on one particr model-she liked the design and the way it handled. She wanted to take it for a test drive.

    Just then, a saleswoman strode over, eyeing them up and down with a frosty, dismissive look. "Can you even afford anything here? If you can''t, don''t touch the merchandise."

    Effie met her gaze calmly. "How can we know if a car''s right without a test drive? If

    it doesn''t suit her, I don''t care how expensive it is¡ªwe''re not buying."

    The saleswoman sneered, sizing Effie up. "Big talk for someone with empty pockets. Do you even know how much these cars cost? Even the base models start at thirty thousand. People like you don''t betong here."

    §ï§Ý

 Chapter 382

    Effie said coolly, ¡°Even if I had money, I wouldn''t buy from you. And you can forget about getting themission."

    "You" The salesman''s face turned red with anger.

    Just then, another saleswoman approached. She smiled warmly at Effie. "Ladies, if you don''t mind, perhaps you could tell me what kind of car you''re interested in, or what you''ll be using it for, as well as your ideal price range. I''d be happy to help you find something suitable."

    Effie nodded. "Sure."

    The male salesman shot the woman a sharp look. "Lenora, are you sure you want to take this one?"

    Lenora''s friendly smile faltered for a moment. She nced at him and replied, "Hanson, it didn''t seem like your conversation with the customers was going very well. I just thought I''d help take some of the pressure off you."

    Hanson gave a derisive snort. "You''re new here you think you need to take the pressure off me? Just don''te running to me for helpter when things go south."

    Lenora forced a polite smile, then led Effie and her grandmother away from the sales floor.

    She showed them several cars and exined their features as Effie''s grandmother test drove a couple of them.

    While her grandmother was upied, Effie pulled Lenora aside and spoke in a low voice, "When my grandmother asks about the price, just tell her it''s a bit cheaper¡ªsay, around twenty thousand. I''ll make up the difference for you. Just mention some kind of special discount to make it believable for her."

    Lenora hesitated but nodded. "I''ll do my best."

    A few minutester, Effie''s grandmother called out, "Effie, these two are both quite nice. Which one do you think is better?"

    Effie replied, "I think they''re both great, but this one seems to suit you better."

    Lenora chimed in, "This is a hybrid. The electric motor kicks in when you''re driving at low speeds or starting up, which takes some of the load off the engine and helps you save on gas..."

    Even though they''d looked at several cars and hadn''t made up their minds yet, Lenora remained patient, exining everything thoroughly and never once losing herposure.

    In the end, Effie made the decision and settled on a fifty-thousand-dor model.

    As Lenora led Effie to the cashier''s desk to sign the paperwork, Hanson stepped in to block their way.

    "Hold on. Did you say she''s going for the fifty-thousand-dor domestic model?"

    Effie shot him a chilly nce. "Sorry, I can''t afford imported, but the domestic ones are well within my budget."

    Hanson''s face flushed, then went pale-like he''d just been pped.

    "Lenora,e here a second."

    Lenora''s smile stiffened, and she looked at him, clearly reluctant.

    She''d heard the rumors: Hanson was notorious for stealing sales from his colleagues.

    Hanson seemed to guess what she was thinking and sneered, "Fine. Just wait."

    It wasn''t until he walked away that Lenora let out a discreet sigh of relief. She turned to Effie, apologetic. ¡°Miss Bagnold, I''m sorry you had to witness that."

    Effie waved it off. "Don''t worry about it. Is he always like this?"

    Lenora''s eyes flickered. She didn''t want to say too much in front of a customer-no sense in dragging down the whole dealership''s reputation. She just smiled. It''s not so bad, really."

    A voice called out, ¡°Lenora, the contract printer''s down. The manager needs you in the office."

    "Huh?"

    ¡°I''ll..... I''ll head over right now." Lenora offered Effie an apologetic smile and hurried away.

    No sooner had Lenora left than Hanson returned. Wearing a fake smile, he approached Effie. ¡°Miss

    Yold, let me help you finalize

    your purchase."

    ¡°Miss Bagnold, would you be interested in financing? We''re offering some great

    rates right now-zero down payment, low interest-"

    Effie raised a hand, cutting him off. "Hold it right there."

 Chapter 383

    Hanson''s smile froze, a flicker of irritation passing through his eyes.

    He turned to Effie, struggling to keep the genial expression on his face.

    "Miss Bagnold, any other questions?" he asked, his tone stiff.

    Under his breath, barely louder than a whisper, he muttered, "Women always make thingsplicated. If it were a man, this would''ve been signed already..."

    Effie ignored him. "Where''s Lenora? Where did she go?"

    Hanson gave a silent huff, then replied, ¡°I''m sorry, Lenora had something urgent to take care of. She asked me to handle the paperwork for her.¡±

    Effie nodded curtly. "Alright. If Lenora isn''t here, I''ll just wait until she''s avable."

    A shadow crossed Hanson''s face. He didn''t believe Effie had all day to spare- she''d cave soon enough.

    He pressed, ¡°Lenora''s busy, and she might not be back until this afternoon. Maybe not even until tomorrow."

    "That''s fine," Effie replied, her voice calm. "I''lle back tomorrow to sign and pay."

    Hanson clenched his jaw. "Do you really insist on having Lenora handle the contract?"

    Effie looked him straight in the eye. "That''s right. If it''s not Lenora, I''m not signing." "Fine. Just wait." Hanson bit out each word through gritted teeth.

    He spun on his heel and stormed off, leaving in a flurry of irritation much like the way he''d arrived.

    Effie''s grandmother watched him go, worry creasing her brow. She turned to Effie and asked, ¡°Effie, do you think something''s wrong? What if Lenora''s in trouble?"

    "She''ll be okay," Effie said, pulling out her phone. "Let me make a call."

    Effie had barely ended her call when Hanson reappeared, dragging Lenora along behind him, with another man trailing after them.

    Lenora looked stiff and uneasy, her steps reluctant, as if she''d been forced toe.

    Effie caught her eye and called out, "Lenora! Didn''t you have something urgent to take care of?"

    Lenora thought to herself, If I hadn''t said that, how could Hanson have

    Proped in to take my client? They

    probably never expected Effie to insist on seeing me before signing.

    Forcing an awkward smile, Lenora said, "Sorry, I had to step out for a bit. I''m back

    now I''ll finish helping you."

    Effie leaned in, her voice low. "Are you alright? Did they threaten you?"

    Lenora hesitated, unsure what to say. Before she could answer, Hanson cleared his throat sharply. "Lenora, let''s pick up the pace. The customer''s waiting."

    Lenora gave a small nod and started gathering the documents.

    "Miss Bagnold, you can sign the contract now," she said, sliding the papers across the desk.

    Effie took the contract, scanning it carefully. "I just want to be clear-if I sign, does themission go to you?"

    Lenora met Effie''s gaze, saying nothing, but her expression spoke volumes.

    Effie closed the folder and shook her head. "No deal. I''m not signing this contract."

    Hanson''s demeanor shifted instantly, his voice turning icy. "What''s that supposed to mean? You here to make trouble because you can''t afford it?"

    He looked like he was ready to blow up at any second.

    Effie stood her ground. "What is this, some kind of scam? Are you going to force me to buy something now?"

    She nced toward the entrance, hoping the person she''d called would arrive soon.

    "You''re just a broke pretender, aren''t you? If you can''t afford it, get out!" Hanson spat.

    Effie''s voice was steely. "Is this how you treat your customers?"

    Her grandmother tugged gently at Effie''s hand, worry etched on every line of her face. "Effie, let''s just go. There''s no point arguing with people like this-we can buy somewhere else."

    Effie knew she was right; there was no reasoning with someone so unreasonable.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 384

    Effie turned to leave with her grandmother in tow.

    But when Hanson heard they were nning to buy from another dealership, he grew agitated and rushed to block their way.

    "What do you want from us?" Effie''s voice was cold and steady. "You won''t let us make a purchase, so we''re leaving. If you keep blocking me, I''ll call the police."

    She pulled out her phone, but Hanson lunged, trying to snatch it from her hand.

    Lenora, who witnessed the scene, shot a nervous nce at the man standing behind them. "Manager, this is getting out of hand, isn''t it?"

    The manager replied curtly, ¡°Lenora, stay out of it."

    Still, Lenora hesitated only a moment before instinctively hurrying toward Effie.

    Just then, a man appeared at the entrance, his voice ringing out, "Hold on! Is this really how you treat customers? All of you-stop this right now!"

    Effie recognized the man and gave him a polite nod. "Mr. Patterson."

    "Designer Bagnold, I''m sorry-I was in a meeting. As soon as I saw your message, I came straight here."

    Effie nodded slightly and said, "Since you''d invited me to help design for yourpany, I thought I''d give you my business as well. I never expected to run into something like this..."

    Mr. Patterson''s expression darkened as he turned to the manager. ¡°Marlin, care to exin what''s going on here?"

    He''d long heard whispers that employees in the dealership were pulling tricks on customers, but every time he checked the security footage, he found nothing conclusive. The matter had been left unresolved-until Effie''s message brought him running today. And sure enough, he''d caught them in the act.

    Marlin, the manager, stiffened. Hanson, looking panicked, nced over at Marlin. "Uncle, what do we do?"

    "Oh, just shut your mouth!" Marlin snapped, teeth clenched.

    Things were bad enough already; now, thanks to Hanson''s outburst, his own involvement was as clear as day.

    "Boss, please, listen to me. We''re from the same town-don''t believe what some outsider says."

    "Then why don''t you exin what happened?" Mr. Patterson''s voice was icy.

    "I... well¡ª"

    "That''s enough! I trust what I saw with my own eyes. Both of you get out. You''re fired!"

    He turned to Effie, his tone

    softening. ¡°I''m sorry you had to go through that. Please, let me make it

    up toyou-dinner''s on mot

    and your grandmother."

    Effie blinked and smiled. ¡°Dinner isn''t necessary. Maybe just give me a discount instead?"

    Mr. Patterson burst outughing, agreeing at once.

    Effie then pointed to Lenora. ¡°Mr. Patterson, you really shouldn''t overlook talent. Lenora here might be new, but she has an excellent attitude and knows her stuff. No matter which car we asked about, she had all the details at her fingertips. Honestly, her knowledge is impressive."

    Lenora blushed, surprised by the praise.

    SS Bagnold, you''re toone

    kind. I''m just doing my job-a good salesperson should know every detail about the cars we sell."

    Mr. Patterson threw a few tough questions Lenora''s way, but she answered them

    all with confidence and rity.

    He nodded in approval. "Well, not only did I root out the bad apples today, but I also discovered a real gem."

    "Thank you, Designer Bagnold," Mr. Patterson said, turning back to Effie.

    "No, no, I should be thanking you¡ªI saved a bundle today," Effie quipped, her easygoing charm making Mr. Pattersonugh out loud.

 Chapter 385

    Mr. Patterson said that while other customers might have to wait weeks for a new car, for Effie, he insisted on making sure she got hers right away.

    So, the moment Effie signed the papers and paid, her grandmother was already in the driver''s seat, beaming as she pulled their brand-new car out of the lot.

    "Can you believe it?" Effie joked, settling into the passenger seat. "After all these years, I get to ride shotgun with Grandma at the wheel again."

    Her grandmother''s eyes shimmered with emotion. She took a steadying breath, wiped at her eyes, and looked straight ahead. "I''m not just going to drive you around," she said. "Someday, when you have children of your own, I''ll take them out for a spin too. We''ll go shopping together, the three of us."

    She paused, then added with a meaningful nce, "You and Lyman should work on that."

    A flush crept across Effie''s cheeks. "Alright, Grandma..."

    "So, where to?" her grandmother asked, clearly not ready to head home just yet. Effie grinned. "Actually, Grandma, there''s somewhere I''d like to go."

    "Oh? Where''s that?"

    Effie gave her the address, and they set off. Along the way, she stopped at a roadside stand and picked up some fresh fruit and vegetables.

    When they arrived, her grandmother parked, curious. "What made you want toe here?" she asked.

    The ce was the Lawrence residence. Old Mrs. Lawrence had once shared a hospital room with Effie''s grandmother. Back then, the two elderly women had be unlikelypanions.

    Old Mrs. Lawrence''s own family was always busy with work and rarely visited- most things were handled by a hired nurse. Maybe that was why she often felt neglected, prone to outbursts and picking at every little thing.

    While caring for her grandmother, Effie would bring meals for Old Mrs. Lawrence, too. Little by little, they''d all grown close. Effie and Old Mrs. Lawrence had be friends, despite the age gap.

    When Old Mrs. Lawrence was finally discharged, a whole entourage came to pick her up-including Irwin Lawrence, who at the time was the deputy chief of police. That''s when Effie realized why her family had stayed away from the hospital: with their social standing, frequent hospital visits would have drawn unnecessary attention, so they''d hired help instead.

    Later, Old Mrs. Lawrence had even invited Effie and her grandmother out to dinner. But time passed, and without many chances to meet, they''d lost touch for a while.

    Still, when Effie and her grandmother walked up to her door, Old Mrs. Lawrence greeted them warmly, no airs or distance at all.

    "Effie, it''s been ages! I miss your cooking," she said with a smile.

    Effieughed, a little embarrassed. "Actually... I can''t cook to save my life. Those meals were all made by my best friend."

    Back then, Nita had been between jobs and was staying at Effie''s grandmother''s house. She''d offered to cook for Effie, who delivered the meals to her grandmother and Old Mrs. Lawrence. After she was done in the kitchen, Nita would head out to job interviews, rarely having time to visit the hospital herself.

    Old Mrs. Lawrence chuckled. "That exins it! Well, I still owe you thanks-you brought me such delicious food. We really should get together more often. Let''s n a get-together soon."

    Effie handed over the fruit and vegetables she''d brought. "Actually, I came today because I need a favor."

    Old Mrs. Lawrence waved her off. "Don''t be so formal. We''re old friends. If you need help, just say the word."

    Effie exined Lyman''s project and how it had hit a wall.

    Old Mrs. Lawrence nodded thoughtfully. If it''s your husband''s work, I''ll arrange for you all to meet

    in a few days. As it happens, my ne

    birthday''sing up. Why don''t you alle to the party? It''ll be a lively crowd, and we can talk then."

 Chapter 386

    Given Irwin''s current position, plenty of people were tripping over themselves to curry favor with the Lawrence family these days.

    Old Mrs. Lawrence had once thrown herself a birthday party, and the whole thing had dissolved into a parade of gift-givers-everyst one of them there for Irwin''s sake. The whole affair reeked of pretense and boredom.

    After that, she''d vowed never again to host one of those tedious gatherings. For years now, she''d kept her birthdays simple: just quiet family time, nothing more. This year, though, for the first time in ages, she was inviting someone over. "Thank you," Effie said quietly.

    "Oh,e now, we''re hardly strangers. No need for all that," Old Mrs. Lawrence waved her off with a smile, then turned to Effie''s grandmother. "Old friend, why don''t you join us?"

    Her grandmother shook her head. "I''m too old for all that excitement. I''ll let you young people have your fun."

    Effie was here with a request and had brought Lyman along for that reason; it wouldn''t be right for her grandmother to tag along too.

    But Old Mrs. Lawrence was sharp-she saw right through it. She didn''t push, either. In truth, she''d never cared for those formal celebrations and the polite small talk that came with them. This-sharing a meal and a real conversation- was infinitely better.

    Her grandmother felt much the same.

    Old Mrs. Lawrence had the staff prepare dinner, using the fresh produce Effie had brought from the countryside to make a simple, home-cooked meal.

    She enjoyed her dinner immensely, showering Effie withpliments about the delicious vegetables she''d chosen.

    After the meal, they lingered, chatting for a bit longer before Effie and her grandmother said their goodbyes and headed home.

    On the drive back, Effie turned to her grandmother. "I''m sorry for dragging you into this today."

    Her grandmother kept her eyes on the road but replied gently, "Silly girl, there''s no need for apologies. If I hadn''t helped you kids out, I wouldn''t have thefortable life I do now, would I?"

    She smiled. "Besides, Old Mrs. Lawrence isn''t the type to keep score."

    Effie nodded. After a moment, she hesitated, then added, "Grandma, please don''t mention any of this to Lyman for now. I''m worried it might bruise his ego."

    Her grandmother nodded in understanding. "Alright, I get it. This is between you and your husband-handle it however you think best."

    "Thanks, Grandma. I will," Effie said softly.

    When they got home, Lyman was already there, changed into his

    casual clothes and chattinge

    phone in the living room. As soon as he saw theme in, he ended the call.

    "You''re back?"

    Effie darted over, draping herself across hisp. "Mm-hmm, we''re back. We visited Grandma''s old friend, had dinner, caught up a bit. Grandma drove the whole way-smooth as ever."

    Lyman tensed for a moment, then rxed and gently stroked her hair. His voice softened. "You should take Grandma out whenever you get the chance."

    Effie grinned. "She doesn''t need me anymore-she''s got her own car now. She can go anywhere she likes."

    Lyman frowned slightly. "Didn''t I give you my bank card this morning? Why didn''t you use it?"

    Effie''s eyes flickered. She hesitated, then mumbled, "I forgot."

    Lyman sighed. ¡°Next time, just use the mone

    I give you, alright? I work

    hard so you can spend it. If you

    don''t what''s the point? I''d lose all

    motivation to earn more."

    "Okay, okay," Effieughed. "From now on, I''ll do my best to give you plenty of motivation."

    Something seemed to ur to Lyman, and his eyes brightened.

    He leaned in, murmuring in her ear, "There are other ways to spend money, you know."

    Effie looked up at him, puzzled. "Oh? What did you have in mind?"

 Chapter 387

    "I''ll end up raising a little money-eating monster who''ll spend all my cash," Lyman joked, grinning.

    Effie snapped out of her daze and gave Lyman a yful smack, blushing as she protested, "You''re ridiculous! Who calls their own kid a monster?"

    "So what would you call them then?" Lyman''s lips curled into a teasing smile as he looked at her.

    "Baby," Effie dered.

    "Alright, baby it is," Lyman replied without missing a beat.

    Effie stared at him, momentarily thrown off, then, realizing what he''d said, swatted him again, this time with even more indignation.

    But her blows were so light they barely registered on Lyman, more like a tickle than an attack.

    The two of them bickered andughed together, while Effie''s grandmother looked on from the side, her face lighting up with delight at their antics.

    Later that day, Effie had to attend Old Mrs. Lawrence''s birthday dinner. Knowing Mrs. Lawrence''s fondness for all things handmade and natural, she decided to pick out a thoughtful gift.

    Old Mrs. Lawrence loved artisanal scents.

    So Effie made her way to Zenith Aroma. As soon as she stepped inside, a shop assistant recognized her. "Miss Bagnold! What brings you here today? Are you looking for the teacher? She''s in the garden."

    "I thought I''d drop by to see Mrs. McKenzie-and maybe pick out a gift for a friend," Effie replied.

    "Of course, right this way."

    Out in the garden, Mrs. McKenzie was sitting alone at a chessboard, deep in concentration. When she spotted Effie, her eyes lit up. "Effie! You haven''t visited me in ages. I''m stuck on this endgame-would you take a look?"

    "Sure thing," Effie said, settling beside her.

    She studied the board thoughtfully. "What about this move?"

    "Tried it already-leads to a stalemate."

    "But if you follow up with this one?"

    Mrs. McKenzie''s eyes widened. "Oh! That just might work-suddenly everything makes sense!"

    Seeing how absorbed they were, the shop assistant quietly stepped back inside. At that moment, Mitchell and Suzan arrived in the shop.

    Suzan immediately eyed a batch of sandalwood incense, freshly made by Mrs McKenzie that month. But when she asked about it, the assistant hesitated. "I''m sorry, but there''s only one set left."

    "Perfect, I''ll take it," Suzan said at once.

    "I''m afraid it''s not that simple, ma''am," the assistant replied apologetically. "That

    Suzan''s tone sharpened. "What do you mean? The other assistant said you had some in stock, and now you''re telling me it''s not for sale? Are you ying games with us?"

    Her voice rose, drawing curious nces from nearby customers.

    The assistant bowed her head. "I''m really sorry. We only just found out ourselves."

    In truth, the assistant was thinking: Effie mentioned she wanted to buy a little gift, so she''d decided to hold this set aside for her.

    "I want to see Mrs. McKenzie! I''ll ask her myself what''s going on," Suzan insisted.

    "You know Mrs. McKenzie?" The assistant regarded Suzan with suspicion. They all knew exactly who Mrs. McKenzie''s regr visitors were, and Suzan definitely wasn''t one of them.

    "I don''t, but my boyfriend does," Suzan said, tugging Mitchell forward. Mitchell, already irritated, felt his annoyance spike as he was dragged into the spotlight. But he couldn''t let it show.

    Now he truly understood what it meant to be the lesser half in a rtionship.

    Ever since Su?an''s uncle had be the wealthiest man in town, the bnce of power between them had flipped. Mitchell had no choice but to put on a good face for her, and he didn''t dare let his reab feelings show.

    Lately, it felt like he was suffocating.

 Chapter 388

    Although Lionel had some clout in ckmire, things didn''t always go his way once he crossed into the maind.

    Take this time, for instance. He tried to get and development project off the ground, only to find himself stonewalled at every turn.

    Suzan, eager to prove herself in front of Lionel, did everything she could to dig up information on the Irwin family.

    To her surprise, her efforts actually paid off-she found out that Mrs. Lawrence would be celebrating her birthday in a few days. Not only that, but Mrs. Lawrence was known for her fondness for Zenith Aroma''s fragrances, so Suzan made a point toe by the boutique and buy some herself.

    Suzan remembered that Mitchell had once bought the same fragrance for a business partner. Back then, when everyone else came up empty-handed, only Mitchell managed to secure a bottle¡ªand that was how he clinched the partnership so smoothly.

    When the shop assistant spotted Mitchell, she froze mid-step.

    She''d been sure she''d imagined it, but now, seeing him up close, there was no mistake.

    Suzan had imed Mitchell was her boyfriend?

    Then who on earth was Effie?

    Mitchell greeted the staff, "Hi, I''ve bought fragrances here before. I''m also a ck Card member."

    Thest time, the staff had treated him with the utmost respect-warm, polite, eager to please.

    He assumed shing his membership would work just as well this time.

    To his surprise, their attitude was far less enthusiastic than he remembered. "Just

    a moment, please. Let me check with my manager," the assistant said, vanishing into the back of the shop.

    In the storeroom, she found Effie helping Mrs. McKenzie resolve a tricky situation. Both women looked pleased with themselves.

    "Miss Bagnold," the assistant whispered, "there''s a man out front who looks really familiar-almost like your ex, Mr. Lloyd. Only, he''s here with another woman, and they''re asking to buy thest batch of Mrs. McKenzie''s handcrafted sandalwood scent. Since you just arrived, I haven''t sold it to them yet."

    Effie instantly understood-Suzan and Mitchell had shown up together.

    Last time, because of Effie, Mitchell had enjoyed VIP treatment here.

    But Effie had never mentioned any of this to Mitchell. Just like she''d quietly helped Lyman behind the scenes this time.

    Effie said softly, "To be precise, he''s my ex. We broke up. We have nothing to do with each other anymore. Besides, I''m married now."

    "What?!" Mrs. McKenzie eximed, eyes wide. ¡°Sweetheart, you got

    now

    married and didn''t tell me? wer!.

    I simply *have* to give you a proper wedding present!"

    Effieughed. ¡°Oh, that''s really not necessary. We know each other so well, you don''t have to fuss."

    Mrs. McKenzie shook her head. "It''s not about fussing, dear. I promised you ages ago-when you got married, I''d give you a gift. Have you forgotten?"

    Effie blinked, realizing she actually *had* forgotten.

    Mrs. McKenzie smiled. "You may have forgotten, but I haven''t."

    She turned to the assistant. "As for that Mr. Lloyd or whatever his name is¡ªif it weren''t for this girl, I wouldn''t give him the time of day. From now on, he gets no special treatment in this shop. His ck Card is O canceled, effective immediately." C¨®ntent

    "Understood," said the assistant, nodding.

    She returned to the front and, with a polite but firm smile, refused to sell anything

    to Suzan and Mitchell. She also asked Mitchell to surrender his ck Card.

    Mrs. McKenzie, ever the cheeky old

    J.ne

    decorative screen that separated the front and back rooms so they could sneak a peek at the action outside.

    She grinned, whispering, ¡°Come on, how often do you get to watch a jerk get hiseuppance for free? We''d be crazy to miss this!"

    Effie couldn''t help butugh at Mrs. McKenzie''s mischief. What a character.

    Honestly, Effie had nned to stay out of their drama for good, but a little free entertainment? Why not?

    Suzan''s voice rose, indignant. "Wait a minute, that ck Card was given to us by the store. How can you just take it away?"

    The assistant thought to herself, *Shameless. As if they don''t know exactly how Mitchell got that card in the first ce.*

 Chapter 389

    "Sorry, but the terms of our membership cards are entirely at our discretion. We''re simply reiming Mr. Lloyd''s card-nothing out of the ordinary."

    "What? You have to give me a reason!"

    Suzan was already fuming from not being able to buy anything, and now she felt her chest about to burst with anger.

    "A reason? Do you really want one?" The clerk nced at Suzan, then shifted her gaze toward Mitchell.

    Suzan nodded, jaw clenched. "Of course I do."

    The clerk smirked. "Let''s put it this way-Mrs. McKenzie doesn''t care for people who can''t make up their minds. Especially the type who flits from one lover to the next, leaving a trail of broken hearts."

    She paused, the corner of her mouth curling as she looked Suzan up and down. "Does that exnation satisfy you two?"

    She didn''t spell it out, but her meaning was clear enough. Whether it was Mitchell or anyone else nearby, everyone could read between the lines.

    Murmurs rippled through the onlookers-rumors swirling that Mitchell had cheated, and Suzan was the other woman.

    A strange sensation crawled over Suzan, as if someone was watching her from the shadows. She spun around, quick and sharp, and caught a glimpse of a pair of eyes peering through a crack in the partition wall.

    In two strides, Suzan crossed the room, charging straight for the divider.

    Some of the staff tried halfheartedly to stop her, but given her obvious pregnancy, no one daredy a hand on her. To everyone''s surprise, she managed to slip past them and dart behind the partition.

    "Effie! You little="

    But the words died on her lips. Instead of Effie, there was only a frail, elegant olderdy with icy eyes. No one else.

    Suzan''s gaze flicked desperately past Mrs. McKenzie, scanning the garden beyond.

    Nothing. Was she imagining things?

    "I''m appalled by your rudeness!" Mrs. McKenzie snapped, her voice cold as stone. was just wondering what kind of person would stoop to stealing another woman''s husband. Now see-it''s someone with no manners at all! Don''t even talk to me about your ck card membership; you''re banned from my shop!"

    "I''m sorry, I didn''t mean to¡ª" Suzan stammered, panic rising.

    "Take her out. Now." Mrs. McKenzie waved her away with clear disgust.

    A clerk came over, not even

    bothering to hide her contempt. "Miss, please respect our store''s rules We''ve been in business for years, and this is the first time we''ve encountered anyone so out of line."

    "..."

    Suzan bit her lip, her protests dying in her throat. She could have sworn she''d seen Effie, but... had she been wrong?

    "Let''s go," Mitchell said at her side, his voice low and impatient. He shot her a withering look. ¡°Haven''t you embarrassed yourself enough already?"

    Suzan stared at him, hurt-did he really think she was in the wrong too?

    "You''re doubting me? I know I saw Effie just now!"

    Mitchell froze at the sound of Effie''s name.

    He drew a slow, tense breath. "You promised you wouldn''t mention Effie in front of me again."

    "Let''s just go."

    Suzan left empty-handed and humiliated, her anger simmering just beneath the surface.

    On the drive home, she couldn''t help venting to Mitchell: "It has to be that witch Effie-she must''ve told them something. How else would they know all that?"

    She kept rambling, but Mitchell seemed lost in thought, barely listening.

    His mind wandered back to hisst visit, when he''d breezed in to buy a bottle of Zenith Aroma. It had all gone so smoothly-he''d thought it was because they respected his status. Now, he wasn''t so sure.

 Chapter 390

    Back then, he''d even boasted to Effie about it, grinning with such smug pride that now, just thinking about it, he felt utterly embarrassed.

    It had been Effie who helped him, yet he''d strutted around in front of her as if he''d done something great.

    Why hadn''t Effie called him out on it at the time?

    "Hey! Watch out!"

    Suzan noticed they needed to turn, but Mitchell just kept driving straight, nearly crashing into the guardrail.

    Suzan''s shrill cry jolted Mitchell out of his thoughts.

    He mmed on the brakes, bringing the car to a screeching halt just in time.

    Thank God there wasn''t a car behind them-otherwise, there would''ve been a pile-up.

    Suzan was still reeling from shock. Her stomach throbbed in pain-the seatbelt had dug sharply into her during the sudden stop.

    She felt something strange, a sensation of something dropping inside her. Reaching down, she touched her abdomen and her hand came away sticky and

    warm.

    Oh no.

    She grabbed for Mitchell''s hand, her voice trembling. "My stomach-it hurts. Something''s wrong."

    Mitchell turned, and the sight of Suzan''s hand covered in blood made his heart drop, his face going white with terror.

    "Wh-what do I do?" he stammered, barely able to get the words out.

    "Take me to the hospital!" Suzan managed, before the pain overwhelmed her and she passed out.

    Mitchell snapped into action, flooring the gas pedal and racing to the hospital. When they finally arrived, he scooped Suzan into his arms and barreled through the doors, shouting, "Clear the way! Move! Somebody help!"

    Seeing the two of them covered in blood, the people in the lobby scattered out of the way in shock.

    Suzan was rushed into the emergency room.

    "Her again? She was just in here not long ago, and now this. Kids these days- don''t even care about their lives," one nurse muttered under her breath.

    Lionel heard about Suzan''s ident and rushed over with Yvette. The sight of Mitchell soaked in blood made Lionel''s heart skip a beat.

    "Where''s Suzan? Is she all right?" he demanded.

    Mitchell could only point helplessly toward the emergency room doors.

    Lionel stood vigil outside, silently praying that Suzan would pull through.

    Soon, Shepard and Vera arrived. With Lionel-her "big brother¡±¡ªthere, Vera no longer bothered to y nice with Mitchell.

    She rounded on him immediately. "Mitchell, what happened? Why is Suzan in the ER again? Did you do something to her?"

    Mitchell knew this was his fault. If he hadn''t zoned out behind the wheel, none of this would have happened.

    "I''m sorry... I¡ªI¡ª¡±

    "So it was you!" Vera snapped, pping Mitchell hard across the face.

    He didn''t dodge-he knew he deserved it. The pnded, leaving a stinging mark.

    Just then, Adeline walked in and caught the scene-Mitchell standing there, taking Vera''s p without protest.

    It was as if that blow had struck Adeline''s own heart.

    Her eyes zed as she stormed over. "What gives you the right to hit him?" she shouted.

    Vera jumped at Adeline''s fury, but

    quick nce at Lionel gave her courage. She shot back, "Your rson did this! He put my daughter back in the ER. A p is getting off easy!"

    Adeline turned to Mitchell, her voice low and tight. "Is that true? Did you do what she said?"

    Mitchell nodded slightly. The memory of Suzan''s bloodied hand still haunted him -he could hardly focus.

    "You-!" Adeline clenched her teeth in anger. "You''re unbelievable!"

    If Mitchell weren''t her son, she might have pped him herself.

    How could he have been so reckless?

    With Suzan''s status now, and the two families about to unite, this incident could only bring trouble to the Lloyds-nothing good coulde of it.

 Chapter 391

    "Everyone, calm down. Stop arguing."

    The moment Lionel spoke, the room fell silent.

    With hismanding presence, few people dared to meet Lionel''s gaze.

    Effie slipped out from her hiding spot in the corner and walked over to Mrs. McKenzie. "Thank you, Mrs. McKenzie."

    Mrs. McKenzie waved her hand dismissively. "No need to thank me. This was all my fault to begin with. If I hadn''t dragged you along to watch themotion, you wouldn''t have been caught up in it."

    Effie smiled. "Still, thank you for standing up for me even if it doesn''t bother me anymore."

    Mrs. McKenzie seemed to realize something and replied, "If you''re not bothered anymore, that''s good. I''m d."

    "It''s gettingte. I''lle visit again another time," Effie said with a smile.

    "Don''t forget to bring your gift home," Mrs. McKenzie reminded her.

    "I won''t."

    Effie brought the gift Mrs. McKenzie had prepared back home and finally opened it there.

    Curious, Lyman wandered over. "What is it? It smells amazing-I could catch the scent from down the hall."

    Effie opened the box. "It''s a wedding gift from an old friend. She always said that when I got married, she''d give me a big present."

    Lyman peered inside. "Is that Zenith Aroma incense?"

    Effie grinned. "I see you know your stuff."

    Inside were several rare, discontinued incenses, each with its own unique name. When you lined up the first letter of each name, it spelled out: "Happy wedding, may your lovest a lifetime."

    "That''s a really thoughtful gift," Lyman said, genuinely impressed.

    Even he had to admit, this was a gift chosen with real care.

    Effie looked delighted, unable to hide how much she loved it. "It''s perfect."

    Just then, her grandmother walked in and caught sight of the gift in Effie''s hands. "She gave that to you?" her grandmother asked.

    A flicker of awkwardness passed through Effie''s eyes. She nodded. "Yes, Mrs. McKenzie gave it to me."

    "She really is thoughtful," her grandmother said softly.

    Effie looked at her, hesitant. "Grandma..."

    Her grandmother waved away her concerns. "Oh, don''t fret, sweetheart. I''m fine- really."

    "I never minded any of it. Your grandfather''s heart always belonged to me," she added with a gentle smile.

    Effieughed. "Of course! Who could resist Grandma''s charm?¡±

    A blush crept up her grandmother''s cheeks. She waved her hand, a little embarrassed. "Alright, that''s enough.

    You''re going to make me blush.¡±

    Effie couldn''t help butugh at how adorable her grandmother was.

    She took a moment to exin the

    meaning behind the gift, and he

    grandmother nodded in

    appreciation. "Truly, she put a lot of thought into this."

    "Grandma, I''m hungry. What''s for dinner?" Effie asked, putting on her best puppy- dog eyes.

    Her grandmother smiled. "I made a real feast tonight."

    "A feast?" Effie grinned. "Seems like everything you make is a feast.¡±

    "Well, it''s all delicious, that''s for sure."

    Effie hurried over to the dining table and peeked at the spread. "Pot roast, ribs, shrimp..."

    She had to admit, her grandmother had outdone herself-every dish was one of Effie''s favorites, and each looked absolutely mouthwatering.

    It was impressive enough to cook just one of these well, but her grandmother had made them all, and each was perfect.

    Lyman watched as Effie dug in with barely a care for appearances and chuckled. "I think I know why your cooking never quite measures up..."

    Effie paused, shot him a look, and raised an eyebrow. "Never measures up?"

    He quickly corrected himself, "It''s good! Just... not as good as your grandma''s."

    "That''s more like it." Effie grinned and dug back in.

    She knew perfectly well where her culinary skills stood, but she loved teasing Lyman about it-he always yed along, which only made it more fun.

 Chapter 392

    The next morning at work, Effie was startled when Shirley hurried over to her-her left cheek was swollen and red.

    Effie rushed to her, rmed. "What happened? Are you okay?"

    The others in the office watched, clearly expecting a scene. Everyone knew things had soured between Shirley and Effie, so seeing Effie so concerned looked a lot like she was throwing herself at someone who wanted nothing to do with her.

    But to everyone''s surprise, Shirley copsed into Effie''s arms and burst into tears. ¡°Effie, I did it. I finally got all the evidence we needed."

    Effie wrapped her arms around Shirley, speaking gently. "You did great. But who hit you? Was it Peter? Or Irving Butler?"

    Shirley sniffled. "It was Peter. He said if I''d agree to be with him, I could climb the ranks in no time. I turned him down, and he pped me."

    Effie''s eyes widened with concern. "Are you alright? Did he hurt you anywhere else?"

    If Peter had really done this, she thought, he deserved whatever wasing to him.

    Shirley managed a shaky smile. "Don''t worry, I kicked him where it hurts and called the cops. He''s probably still at the station right now."

    Effie gave her a thumbs up, wincing inwardly at the mental image.

    "Well done. Let''s make sure the police have everything they need."

    Shirley nodded. "I''ve already talked to them and handed over all the evidence."

    "Brilliant work!"

    Shirley squeezed Effie''s hand. "After what happened to youst time, I realized something: in this world, you have to strike first, or you''ll always be at someone else''s mercy."

    Effie nodded in agreement. "You''re absolutely right."

    No sooner had Shirley finished speaking than a group of police officers arrived. They quietly escorted several people out of the office, including Irving Butler.

    With Peter already in custody, these new charges would only make things worse for him.

    The rest of the staff looked bewildered,pletely lost as to what was going on. Their gazes turned to Shirley, searching for answers.

    Shirley took a deep breath and began to exin, her words painting a vivid picture that had everyone riveted-it was more dramatic than any TV show.

    As it turned out, Irving Butler, Peter, and a few other designers had been up to no good for quite some time They''d been taking frence jobs on the side and stealing designs from junior staff, selling them off to small jewelry shops for extra cash.

    One designer, frustrated, spoke up. "I knew it! Qur pieces weren''t even in production yet, but somehow knockoffs would hit the market first. Irving even med me for it! So this is what was really happening."

    But another employee frowned. ¡°But The Etheridge Group isn''t some smallpany. We get paid more here than almost anywhere else. Why risk it all? Weren''t they afraid of getting caught?"

    Shirley shook her head. "That''s just it. They resorted to extreme measures."

    If she hadn''t gone undercover, Shirley admitted, she''d never have discovered just how deep the rabbit hole went. Irving Butler had lured them, pretending to be their friend, then drawn them into

    "investments"¡ªwhich turned out to

    be online gambling.

    At first, they all won, and the stakes kept getting higher. Eventually, they borrowed money, even roping in their families. Then the losses started piling up, until everything they''d won-and more¡ªwas gone.

    That''s when Irving swooped in, ying the hero. He told them it was just bad luck, they could win it all back with onest bet. He lent them money and made them sign predatory contracts.

    Desperate, addicted, and seeing only a way out, they followed him blindly-and he led them straight into ruin.

 Chapter 393

    Some of the guys gambled themselves into a frenzy, always thinking the next round would be their chance to win it all back. But the more they yed, the deeper they sank, until the debts they owed were far beyond anything they could

    actually pay.

    That''s when Irving Butler finally showed his true colors. He started hounding them for the money and threatened to report their gambling to thepany if they didn''t pay up-meaning they''d lose their jobs, too.

    On top of that, Irving Butler had contracts they''d signed when they borrowed money from him. There was no way out. Any hope of backing out was gone-they were trapped,pletely at his mercy.

    After Irving Butler''s maneuvering, he suddenly had a pack of obedientckeys. They started abusing theirpany positions, stealing design drafts and secretly selling them to small-time manufacturers for a quick profit.

    That exined why, over the past couple of years, Etheridge & Co. Jewels kept seeing their new releases copied by tinypanies. Lyman had evenunched an internal investigation, but Irving Butler was always a step ahead, covering his tracks so well that the investigators never found anything useful.

    Effie, who had joined thepany under a false identity, managed to gain their trust-which made everyone lower their guard. Now, with her help, they''d finally rounded up the whole lot.

    Everyone was singing Effie and Shirley''s praises, calling them brave and clever. Some even joked about what a convincing act the two had put on, pretending to fall out with each other-most people genuinely believed their rivalry was real.

    Shirley grinned. "You have no idea how hard it was not to burst outughing. But when I checked myself in the mirror, I realized I looked so pitiful trying to keep a straight face that it made the whole thing even more believable."

    Her words set off another round ofughter.

    ...

    Lyman heard about all this while he was having drinks with Vinson Elliott, Fenton, and a few others.

    Fenton swirled his wine and said to Lyman, "I have to admit, I always thought your wife was just a pretty face. Who knew she''d be the one to take down Irving Butler and his gang?"

    He paused, then added, "Though to be fair, she also took out our own informant in the process."

    Fenton was always blunt, never one to worry about offending Lyman.

    Lyman swirled his own ss, his gaze

    switching cold. "Balfour? That guy

    switched sides a long time ago Irving Butler pulled him in, turned

    hi

    into his own weapon."

    Fenton let out a shortugh. "Here I was thinking he was just ying the long game, biding his time."

    Vinson Elliott chimed in with a smirk, "So, in the end, the person Effie found was more useful than the one you guys nted."

    Both Lyman and Fenton had to admit it was a miscalction on their part.

    "And now the design department manager position is open. Lyman, got anyone in mind to fill it?"

    Lyman was silent.

    Suddenly, Vinson''s eyes lit up. "Hey, Lyman, why not mix a little business with pleasure?"

    Lyman raised an eyebrow. "Business with pleasure?"

    "Make Effie the new design manager. That way, you''ll have a perfectly good excuse to call her into your office all the time. I mean,e on-"

    "Oh, workce romance! Man, I wish I could have that!" Vinson''s words were still hanging in the air when Fenton gave him a hard smack. "Give Da rest. You sound like an

    soft?"

    idiot. Since when did you get so

    Vinson cradled his head, grumbling. Always the youngest in the group, he seemed

    to be everyone''s favorite target.

    Randell piped up, "Don''t mind him. He''s been chasing after a minor

    celebritytely-running off to

    watch

    her shoot scenes-so now he just sits here daydreaming."

    Vinson blushed furiously. "Shut up!"

    Lyman suddenly stood up. Instinctively, Vinson threw his arms over his head in self-defense.

    No way was he getting smacked again.

 Chapter 394

    "Lyman, where are you off to?" Randell called after him.

    "Mixing a little business with pleasure," Lyman replied, not even slowing his stride.

    Randell and Fenton exchanged a knowing look, as if they''d seen thising a mile away.

    Lyman beckoned Luther to follow, and together they made an unannounced entrance into the Design Department.

    Without any preamble, Luther, on Lyman''s behalf,mended Effie and Shirley in front of everyone. Shirley especially had outdone herselftely, and so, with a nod from Lyman, she was promoted from probationary to full-time designer.

    "Whoa! Wait-I''m not dreaming, am I?" Shirley practically bounced with excitement.

    She threw her arms around Effie, grinning like a child. "Effie, pinch me! Quick, pinch me, I need to know this is real!"

    Effie hesitated, smiling. "You do it. Give yourself a p-it''ll work better."

    "Alright!" Shirley let go, dashed over, and gave Luther a good-natured smack on the hand.

    Luther stared at her, dumbfounded. He''d never expected Shirley to actually hit him.

    "Didn''t even hurt. Am I really dreaming?" Shirley muttered under her breath.

    Luther couldn''t find the words. Seriously, princess, you hit me-how would you feel it?

    After Shirley''s little stunt, the whole department fell dead silent. You could hear a pin drop. Everyone gawked at Shirley-she was bold, sure, but of all people to hit, she picked Luther? Didn''t she know Luther was Mr. Etheridge''s right-hand man, the power behind the throne?

    Most of them figured Shirley was a goner after this.

    To everyone''s astonishment, neither Lyman nor Luther seemed remotely bothered.

    Whispers began to spread-maybe Shirley was the real VIP around here.

    Then Lyman made another announcement: Thanks to Effie''s outstanding performance-nailing several big projects since joining The Etheridge Group and rooting out a major problem in thepany-he was officially promoting her to Design Manager.

    No one seemed particrly surprised. They all knew Effie''s talent; even without the promotion today, it was only a matter of time before she rose through the ranks.

    "Is anyone unhappy with this result?" Lyman suddenly asked.

    His wife deserved to be cherished-and if nobody else would p, he''d start. Lyman began apuding, and the others quickly followed suit.

    Effie shot Lyman a look, equal parts grateful and exasperated¡ªso much for keeping a low profile.

    vel

    Then Lyman turned to her, all business again. "Miss Bagnold,. would youe to my office?

    an important matter need

    with you."

    Without waiting for her response, he strode into his office.

    Effie was left a little bewildered. What could be so urgent or so secret that he

    couldn''t just say it in front of everyone?

    Still, she followed him inside.

    "Close the door," Lyman said.

    As soon as Effie turned around from shutting the door, Lyman moved in-fast-catching her wrists and pinning her gently between the door and his body.

    Effie''s breath hitched, nerves fluttering in her stomach.

    Lyman''s lips curled in a satisfied smile at her reaction.

    With one hand, he tilted her chin up, drawing close, his gaze intense.

    Effie''s scalp tingled in rm. There was a whole office full of employees outside- was he really going to do this here?

    "What... what are you doing?" she whispered, her voice barely audible.

    Lyman''s smile deepened. "Mixing a little business with pleasure," he teased.

    His words brushed her skin, warm and damp, sending a shiver through her whole body.

    Before Effie could protest, Lyman''s

    lips imed hers in a fierce kiss

    stea

    her breath, seizing here

    it were a battle he fully intended to

    if

    Win.

    Only after a long moment did he finally let her go.

    Effie slumped against his chest, her legs weak, heart pounding so hard she thought it might burst.

 Chapter 395

    Suddenly, there was a knock at the door.

    The sound was so sharp and abrupt it seemed to echo right beside her ear. Effie''s heart gave a violent jolt, and she instinctively pushed Lyman away.

    She hurried to straighten her clothes, shooting him a look filled with reproach and frustration.

    Lyman, unfazed, simply stepped forward and helped her smooth out her blouse, his touch brisk and practical.

    Only then did he call out, "What is it?"

    Luther, picking up the irritation in Lyman''s voice, felt his stomach drop. He tensed immediately.

    Still...

    He nced at the two officers standing nearby, then steeled himself and said, "Mr. Etheridge, the police are here to gather evidence."

    "Let them in," Lyman replied coolly.

    Effie sucked in a sharp breath. Lyman was truly fearless-he didn''t even bother to show deference to the police.

    The officers entered, and, upon seeing Lyman, greeted him with a respectful, "Mr. Etheridge."

    Lyman merely nodded in acknowledgment. It was all the greeting he cared to give.

    He had every reason to be so self-assured.

    Turning back to Effie, Lyman said, "We haven''t finished our earlier discussion. Why don''t youe up to my office and we''ll continue?"

    Effie''s cheeks med as if every drop of blood in her body had rushed to her face.

    Continue what? Discussing how to usepany resources for personal gain? Thankfully, it was just Lyman''s idea of a joke. He soon left the room with Luther in tow.

    Once the police had gathered what evidence they needed, Irving Butler''s office was a mess¡ªpapers strewn everywhere, drawers left open, the ce looking utterly depressing.

    That was when Shirley walked in, carrying a small bucket and a cleaning rag. "Effie, I''m here to help tidy up."

    "Thanks, Shirley. All this junk needs to be thrown out," Effie replied.

    Shirley nced at the "junk" Effie was talking about and couldn''t help

    but smirk, Who would quite 21

    Pavel.ne

    Irving Butler had been quite the lecher stashing so many...

    questionable items in his office. No wonder he needed a wig at his age!

    "I''ll take care of it," Shirley said. The less she had to look at those things, the better.

    "Thanks, I appreciate it," Effie replied.

    Seeing Shirley take the initiative, the others quickly jumped in to help as well.

    No one wanted to get on the wrong side of the new boss. They all thought, "Let''s make sure Effie''s first day goes smoothly-who knows where her attention mightnd next?"

    By the time the office was back in order, it was nearly quitting time. Effie invited everyone out to dinner.

    It was tradition, after all. A promotion called for a celebratory meal.

    Some of the senior staff recalled that when Irving Butler was promoted, he''d also treated the team-but only to takeout boxes, and nothing costing more than a few dors per person.

    He really was the stingiest boss they''d ever had.

    So when Effie led everyone to a high-end restaurant, people could hardly believe

    it. It felt like they were dreaming.

    "Miss Bagnold, isn''t this a bit much?" someone asked hesitantly.

    Effie smiled. "Don''t worry about it. Order whatever you like my treat."

    Still, everyone was cautious. In the back of their minds, they worried: what if Effie suddenly decided to split the bill?

    Sensing their restraint, Effie went ahead and ordered for everyone herself.

    Before the food arrived, she said, "Tonight, just rx and enjoy yourselves. Don''t think about work. Eat as much as you want-office business can wait until we''re back."

    At first, the group was still a bit reserved, but once the dishes started arriving-each one beautifully presented and

    delicious-their appetites took

    Soon, everyone was diggingin,

    savoring every bite.

    Even though the mood was cheerful, they all remembered they were ina ssy restaurant. Conversation stayed polite and voices were kept low, as everyone tried their best to eat with grace.

 Chapter 396

    Some people just couldn''t stand to see others enjoying themselves. Sure enough, a server approached their table and tried to mediate: "Excuse me, but a guest over there says the noise at your table is too loud and it''s affecting her meal."

    Effie''s eyebrows arched in disbelief. "Sorry, but the whole restaurant is full tonight. Why does that guest assume we''re the ones disturbing her? It sounds like everyone''s talking at the same volume, doesn''t it?"

    Effie couldn''t help but suspect that someone was deliberately picking on them, especially since the server hadn''t warned any other tables.

    "Effie, let''s just let it go. We''ll keep our voices down," Shirley murmured, ncing around nervously. The others nodded, not wanting to cause Effie any trouble.

    Effie turned back to the server. "From the moment we sat down, we''ve kept our voices down. If we''d really been making a scene, wouldn''t you havee over sooner?"

    The server looked ufortable but nodded. With guests on both sides, he could only try to keep the peace.

    Effie sighed. "Fine. We''ll be even more mindful of our table manners and keep our conversation quiet. But if that person keepsining, the problem''s clearly hers, not ours. Wouldn''t you agree?"

    "Yes, that''s fair. I''ll go let her know." The server walked off toward a woman sitting with her back to Effie. Effie watched him speak to her and felt a strange flicker of recognition-she was sure she''d seen that silhouette before.

    Thanks to Effie''s calm handling, everyone at the table felt grateful and tried even harder to keep quiet, eating their meals in near silence.

    But momentster, the server returned, looking even more troubled.

    Effie didn''t need to ask. "Let me guess-sheined again?"

    The server nodded helplessly. "I''m afraid so..."

    Effie dabbed her lips with a napkin and stood up gracefully. "Alright. I''ll handle it."

    Shirley shot her a nervous look and quickly grabbed her hand. "Effie, just be careful."

    Effie gave Shirley''s hand a gentle squeeze. "Rx. I''m reasonable. And besides, if a dog bites me, I''m not going to bite back."

    Shirley couldn''t help but think-the woman targeting them really was acting like a dog.

    Effie strode over to theinant''s table. The woman had been smirking, but as Effie''s shadow fell across her, she looked up in surprise.

    Recognition flickered across Isabel''s face, along with a sh of embarrassment.

    Effie rapped her knuckles lightly on the table and addressed her coolty, "Miss Isabel, I didn''t expect you to be so childish. Is making trouble for others really that entertaining to you?"

    Isabel sniffed indignantly. "You were disturbing me. This is a free country-you can''t restrict my rights."

    Effie responded with a polite smile.

    "Of course not. I just thought I

    should mention that you might want to have your hearing checked.

    el.r

    Sometimes, when people get sensitive to normal conversation, it''s a sign something''s wrong."

    She reached into her purse and ced a business card on the table. "Here''s the card of Dr. Smith, an excellent ENT specialist. I''m sure he can help with any hearing issues you might have."

    "You-you witch! What did you just say to me?!¡±

    Isabel''s voice went up an octave, shrill enough to turn heads.

    Effie remained perfectly poised. "Miss Isabel, raising your voice like that in public

    isn''t very polite."

    She turned to the server. "Her outburst is disrupting everyone''s meal now. Perhaps it''s time to ask her to leave?"

 Chapter 397

    The waiter looked helplessly at Effie, then nced over toward Isabel, clearly unsure how to respond.

    Isabel''s voice sliced through the tension, cold andmanding. "If you can''t handle this, go get your manager."

    Relief flickered across the waiter''s face. Of course he couldn''t fix this, but the manager might.

    He hurried away, and before long, returned with the restaurant manager in tow.

    The manager could sense the charged atmosphere before he even got close. This was the kind of drama he''d rather avoid, but unfortunately, these two difficult customers had chosen his restaurant tonight.

    "Ladies, I''m terribly sorry your dining experience hasn''t met expectations," he began diplomatically. "If you''ll allow me, I''d like to offer a solution."

    Effie folded her arms across her chest. "And what exactly do you suggest?"

    Isabel tapped her fingernails impatiently on the table. "Let''s hear it. I''m curious what you''lle up with."

    The manager turned to Isabel. "Miss, it seems you''re quite sensitive to noise, so perhaps the main dining area isn''t the best fit. Unfortunately, all our private rooms are fully booked tonight-there''s not a single one left, and I do apologize for that. Aspensation, we''d like to offer you a twenty-dor voucher, valid indefinitely. Would that be eptable?"

    "Twenty dors?" Isabel mmed her hand on the table and shot to her feet, voice ringing out across the restaurant. "You think you can fob me off like some beggar?"

    The force of her outburst rattled the entire table, sending silverware skittering and tes ttering with a piercing din.

    A number of diners turned to stare.

    "Twenty dors is an insult!" Isabel seethed through clenched teeth.

    The manager''s tone hardened. "That''s the best we can do. We''re a small business¡ªthere''s no way we can meet unreasonable demands. If you insist on causing a scene, I''ll have to call the police."

    Effie leaned in, feigning curiosity.

    "You know, you look kind of familiar. Have we seen you somewhere before? Are you someone famous? If a story got out that a celebrity caused a scene over twenty dors in a restaurant, that wouldn''t look so good, would it?"

    Of course she knew exactly who Isabel was. She just wasn''t saying it¡ªat least, not yet. Whether or not she would expose her identity depended on what Isabel did next.

    Isabel''s face darkened, her expression so tense it seemed she could wring water from the air.

    Effie''s lips curled into a sly smile that made Isabel''s skin crawl. "Ah, I remember now, you''re "

    "Enough!" Isabel barked, cutting her off. "You can forget about me ever spending another cent in this dump!"

    She snatched up her purse and all but bolted for the exit, nearly tripping over her own feet in her haste.

    She was terrified

    Effie would blurt

    out her name. Even though her

    career had already stalled, she was

    el.no

    still desperately searching for aeback. Thest thing she

    needed was a fresh scandal to bury her chances for good.

    As Isabel''s retreating figure disappeared, the manager let out a visible sigh of relief.

    Turning to Effie, he said, "Thank you for helping us handle that situation. As a token of our gratitude, we''ll give you twenty percent off your meal tonight."

    Effie grinned. "Thank you, Kenyatta. That''s generous of you."

    The manager blushed, rubbing the back of his head. ¡°Please¡ªjust call me ''Manager'' while we''re at work."

    Effieughed. "Manager Kenyatta-it has a nice ring to it. Congrattions on the promotion."

    ¡°Thank you! And honestly, I have you

    to thank for it," Manager Kenyatta replied earnestly. "If you hadn''t rmended me for this job, never would have gotten the chance to prove myself and move up."

 Chapter 398

    Effie smiled and said, "No need to thank me. You earned this through your own hard work-you don''t owe anyone gratitude."

    Manager Kenyatta was the grandson of Effie''s grandmother''s old neighbor. After graduating from a technical school and struggling to find a job, he''d grown listless for a while, until Effie arranged for him to work here.

    Once Effie left to join her colleagues for dinner, everyone finally rxed.

    They had all assumed that someone as difficult as Isabel would cause a huge scene, maybe even a blowout argument. To their surprise, the whole mess had been resolved so easily.

    Shirley leaned over and whispered to Effie, "Effie, was that woman just now Isabel?"

    Effie nodded. "Yeah."

    "Tsk, she''s seriously got a few screws loose-should probably get help," Shirley muttered under her breath.

    Honestly, if Isabel hadn''t started trouble, none of this would''ve happened. But she insisted on stirring the pot, and in the end, she got thrown out-so really, the only one embarrassed was herself.

    With that unpleasant episode behind them, the group quickly returned to their cheerful dinner.

    What Effie didn''t notice was that, not far behind her, someone had been watching her the whole time.

    Vinson Elliott nced at Lyman and said, "You know, your girl isn''t simple."

    He shot Lyman a meaningful look.

    But Lyman didn''t even respond; his entire focus was still on Effie.

    She''d always been like this dignified, undaunted, always facing the sun.

    That was what drew him to her in the first ce.

    ...

    Time flew by in the blink of an eye, and soon enough, it was Old Mrs. Lawrence''s birthday.

    Effie had already picked out a gift and, after telling her grandmother she was taking the day off, she brought Lyman out for lunch.

    Lyman kept wracking his brain, but he couldn''t for the life of him remember what was so special about today.

    He turned to Effie. "You''re in a good mood today, aren''t you?"

    Effie smiled. "I am."

    She''d grown wise to Lyman''s ways¡ªa battle of wits, really-careful not to fall into any of his little traps.

    But she was unaware of just how nervous Lyman actually was.

    He couldn''t shake the feeling that he''d forgotten some important asion. If he had, a simple apology wouldn''t cut it-he might need to send Luther out to buy one of those weird apology gifts.

    Effie led Lyman to the entrance of the Lawrence family estate, and he was stillpletely lost. Where were they, anyway?

    Maybe there was a secret restaurant hidden here? It kind of looked like it.

    Effie had barely stepped out of the car when she nearly collided with Suzan.

    As soon as Suzan spotted Effie, her eyes went red and she barreled toward her. "Effie, you bitch! You''ve got

    face

    Toome nerve showing you''ve

    to me!"

    Effie just found Suzan''s outbursts baffling at this point. The woman seemed to lose her mind every time they crossed paths.

    "If you''re sick, go get treated. Stop having your meltdowns in front of me," Effie said coldly, quickly catching Suzan''s swinging hand.

    That''s when Effie noticed something strange-Suzan''s belly, which should have been noticeably round by now, was t.

    If Suzan had given birth, she definitely would''ve been unting it to Effie by now. That was just who she was.

    But there was no gloating now. And her stomach was t. That could only mean one thing: Suzan had lost the baby.

    Suzan red at Effie with pure venom, as if she wanted to tear her apart.

    But Effie genuinely couldn''t think of anything she''d done that could''ve caused Suzan''s miscarriage.

    "Still ying innocent? You were at Zenith Aroma that day, weren''t you?! I saw your car when I left! You deliberately badmouthed me so that old hag would throw me out Suzan spat, her voice trembling with rage.

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 Chapter 399

    Effie crossed her arms and said coolly, "Suzan, are you paranoid or something? You lost your baby, and now you want to me that on me?"

    No matter how you looked at it, Effie really couldn''t be held responsible-directly or indirectly for what happened.

    But Suzan had be obsessed with the idea. She was convinced that if she hadn''t run into Effie that day, her baby would still be alive.

    If that were the case, she would have married Mitchell without a hitch.

    Now, though, with the baby gone, Mitchell was already starting to drift away from her.

    If she hadn''t begged him for ages, he wouldn''t havee with her today at all.

    And now, as Suzan and Effie stood there confronting each other, Mitchell didn''t even bother to get out of the car. Pathetic.

    At that moment, Lyman parked his car and strode over. Instinctively, he positioned himself protectively in front of Effie. "What''s going on here?"

    Suzan''s voice came out shrill, almost hysterical. "Perfect timing. Keep your girlfriend in line-she''s trying to steal my boyfriend!"

    Her words were like nails on a chalkboard, teetering right on the edge of madness.

    Lyman shot her a frigid re, his eyes like daggers. "Watch your mouth," he said icily. "I won''t hesitate to make sure you never use it again."

    Suzan flinched, taking an involuntary step back.

    Her retreat brought her up short against something solid.

    Turning, she realized it was Mitchell standing right behind her.

    In that instant, all her pent-up frustration and hurt surged to the surface. Eyes red, she pleaded, "Mitchell..."

    His brow furrowed, but his tone was cold as he said, "That''s enough. Didn''t you say we had things to take care of? Let''s go."

    He let his gaze drift briefly to Effie before deliberately looking away.

    Suzan noticed it. The way his eyes lingered on Effie-it made her want to scream. Jealousy and hatred wrapped around her like barbed wire, threatening to tear her apart.

    Why? After all this time, why did Mitchell still look at Effie like that?

    "Come on, Mitchell, let''s go."

    Gripping his arm, Suzan hurried him toward the Lawrence family''s front door.

    Effie turned to Lyman. "Anything you want to ask me?"

    "Ask you what?" Lyman feigned innocence. "We''ve always been honest with each

    other. If something was wrong, you''d have told me already."

    Effie nodded seriously. "Come on, there''s a surprise waiting for you."

    A surprise? Lyman''s eyes lit up with curiosity.

    Meanwhile, Suzan and Mitchell had reached the entrance to the Lawrence estate. She clutched her gift bag and, putting on her best smile addressed the doorman "Hello, I''m Suzan Bagnold. I''m here to celebrate Mrs. Lawrence''s birthday."

    Old Mrs. Lawrence hadn''t hosted a birthday gathering in years.

    Coincidentally, just a few days ago, Mrs. Lawrence had told the doorman to

    expect a youngdy named Bagnold for her celebration.

    And now, here she was.

    "Miss Bagnold, right this way," the doorman said warmly.

    Suzan was taken aback.

    She''d fully expected it would be nearly impossible to get inside, and had rehearsed a dozen excuses in case she had to force her way through. She never imaginedit would be this easy.

    to''

    Just then, Effie and Lyman caught up. Effie called out, "Wait a moment¡ªI''m the

    guest Mrs. Lawrence actually invited."

    The doorman hesitated, ncing from Effie to Suzan. ¡°Are you...also Miss Bagnold?"

    "That''s right. I''m Effie."

    ¡°Effie..." He repeated her name, but could only recall Mrs. Lawrence mentioning a

    ''Miss Bagnold''¡ªher first name had slipped his mind.

    Suzan red daggers at Effie, her voice trembling with rage. "Are you out of your mind? Can''t you be original for once? Do you have to copy everything I do?"

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 Chapter 400

    Effie chuckled. "Shouldn''t you be asking yourself that question?" she replied. "Are you out of inspirationtely, that you have to copy me just to keep up? But let''s be honest, not everyone can pull off what I do. At best, you''re a cheap knockoff."

    "Shut up! You''re the one copying me!" Suzan snapped, her jaw clenched so tightly she was practically grinding her mrs to dust.

    Effie, on the other hand, remained perfectlyposed. It was obvious to anyone watching who was rattled and who wasn''t.

    She took out her phone and called Old Mrs. Lawrence''s housekeeper. Within moments, the woman appeared at the door.

    The housekeeper recognized Effie immediately and greeted her warmly. "Miss Bagnold, you''re here! Mrs. Lawrence was thrilled to hear you wereing. She asked me to bring you in right away."

    "Thank you. I''lle in now," Effie replied politely.

    But Suzan stepped forward, blocking their path. She pointed usingly at the security guard. "Wait a minute! Who are you to just let her in? He weed me in because I''m Miss Bagnold. I''m Shepard''s daughter."

    The housekeeper shook her head, confused. "I''m sorry, I don''t know you."

    Suzan looked like she might explode. "I''m Lionel ckmire''s niece-the wealthiest man in the county!"

    But the housekeeper just shook her head again. "You may share thest name, but the only guest Mrs. Lawrence has been waiting for is Miss Effie Bagnold."

    "The guard must be mistaken," Suzan protested.

    Suzan didn''t know the housekeeper, but the security guard certainly did. While Old Mrs. Lawrence preferred a quiet life in her old house, she always brought her housekeeper along when she returned home, so if the housekeeper said Effie was the expected guest, there was no doubt about it.

    The security guard stepped between Suzan and the door. "I''m terribly sorry, miss. The mistake was mine. I can''t let you in."

    Suzan was livid. "Why not? Why can she go in and I can''t?"

    The guard replied, "Today''s just a family gathering. Aside from the Lawrence family, the only invited

    elis Miss Effie Bagnold. No one

    else is allowed."

    Effie nced back at Suzan, a smirk ying on her lips. "You heard him-no uninvited guests allowed."

    Effie hadn''t intended to be so smug; she was raised better than that. But some people only learn their lesson when you stand your ground.

    neo

    Suzan looked like she still wanted to force her way in, but just then, a huge German shepherd was led to the front, startling her so much she jumped back.

    Instinctively, she reached out for

    Mitchell''s hand, but Mitchell was et

    even more terrified of dogs than she

    wd immediately bolted for the

    gate.

    The dog barked thunderously, causing Suzan and Mitchell to turn pale and flee in

    a panic.

    Only then did Effie turn away, pping her hands with satisfaction. She took Lyman''s hand and strolled toward the living room.

    "Today was worthing for," she said with a grin. "Nothing like a little dog- chasing-dog drama to liven things up."

    Lyman gazed at her fondly, the corners of his mouth lifting in an affectionate smile.

    They reached the front door, and as they entered, all eyes in the room immediately turned to Effie and Lyman.

    When Irwin caught sight of Lyman, he froze, a flicker of emotion crossing his face. For a moment, he looked genuinely unsettled-almost frightened.

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 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 toe."

    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''te by easily."

    "I''m d you like it," Effie replied warmly.

    Mrs. Lawrence beamed. "Alright now, don''t just stand around-please, everyone, take your seats."

    Lyman leaned toward Effie. "So, this was your surprise?"

    Effie nodded, ncing up at him for a reaction, but Lyman''s eyes were unreadable-his expression gave nothing away.

    She exined quietly, "I 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 to help."

    She''d expected him to be pleased, but... it didn''t really show.

    Maybe sensing her disappointment, Lyman squeezed her hand beneath the table and said, "Thank you. I''m happy."

    Effie blinked. Happy? This was his happy face?

    She''d never realized happiness could look so stoic.

    But she didn''t have long to dwell on it; Mrs. Lawrence was already serving Effie some food, piling her te with warm hospitality.

    Effie, a bit overwhelmed, smiled. "Thank you, Mrs. Lawrence."

    Mrs. Lawrence waved her off. "Oh, don''t be so formal. We''re all friends here."

    She nudged the te toward Effie. "The shrimp is delicious-you like shrimp, don''t you? Have some more."

    "I will, thank you."

    Lyman watched the 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 two of them, outsiders though they were.

    At first, the group was a bit stiff, but as time passed and familiar faces rxed, the atmosphere softened and everyone seemed to settle in.

    They enjoyed their meal together, and when dinner ended, the real highlight of the birthday celebration began.

    One by one, members of the Lawrence family performed for Old Mrs. Lawrence-songs, little skits, heartfelt toasts. Surrounded by her children and grandchildren, she sat beaming in the center of it alt happiness written across her face. C¨®ntent

    While everyone''s attention was on the performances, Irwin quietly slipped over to Lyman and murmured, "Mr. Etheridge, I didn''t know you''d be joining us today. I apologize for not greeting you sooner-"

    Lyman cut him off. "No need for pleasantries."

    Irwin hurried on, lowering his voice. "I''m sorry about the Etheridge Group project. I had no choice. Your uncle and I went to school together, I¡ª"

    Lyman interrupted again, voice colder. "You know, if I hadn''t shown up tonight, tomorrow you''d have lost everything. And you''d be spending the rest of your life behind bars."

    Irwin broke into a cold sweat, his face pale as he pleaded, "I''m sorry, Mr. Etheridge. I swear I didn''t mean for this to happen. I''ll call my people right away-tomorrow, your project with go through without a hitch."

    Lyman pped Irwin on the shoulder. "Your mother is a good woman."

    Irwin paused, then understood. He nodded gratefully. "Thank you, Mr. Etheridge. Thank you."

    Effie nced over just in time to see Lyman and Irwin talking quietly, looking surprisingly at ease. Atst, she felt she could finally rx.

 Chapter 402

    On the way back, nearly the entire Lawrence family turned out to see Effie and Lyman off. Their enthusiastic send-off startled Effie more than a little.

    "Effie,e visit me again when you have the time," Mrs. Lawrence called out warmly.

    "I will," Effie promised with a smile.

    After exchanging goodbyes several more times, Effie and Lyman finally managed

    to escape.

    In the car, Effie nced at Lyman. "Did that take care of everything?"

    Lyman nodded. "Pretty much sorted."

    Effie gave a little hum of acknowledgement, then hesitated before saying, "I hope you don''t think I was overstepping. I just wanted to help you out, that''s all. If you didn''t like how I handled it, next time I-wait, actually, let''s hope there''s no next time."

    Lyman reached over and patted her hand reassuringly. ¡°Not at all. I wish you''d do it more often-I''d never be unhappy about it."

    "Really?" Effie looked at him, her longshes fluttering like the wings of a butterfly about to take flight.

    He gently cupped the back of her head and pressed a soft kiss to her forehead.

    Effie caught a faint trace of wine on him. It wasn''t overpowering, so she didn''t mind.

    Back at the gathering, whether the toasts were meant for her or for Lyman, he''d intercepted every single one. He''d probably had more than a few drinks himself.

    Now, with the alcohol settling in, he leaned back on the sofa, closed his eyes, and pretended to nap.

    Effie didn''t dare disturb him. She sat quietly beside him, scrolling through her phone. Every so often, she couldn''t help sneaking a nce at Lyman.

    He really was ridiculously handsome-even with his eyes closed, just watching the outline of his face was enough to make her heart race.

    Thank goodness he was a businessman and not a movie star, Effie thought. If he were famous, the whole world would be infatuated with him.

    Suddenly, Lyman opened his eyes-just in time to catch her staring.

    Effie flinched, like a kid caught doing something wrong, and started to look away.

    "Am I really that good-looking?" Lyman''s lips curled into a teasing smile, his eyes sparkling with amusement.

    Effie forced herself to hold his gaze, offering a nervousugh as she pretended not to understand. "My head''s spinning a bit. I''m going to get some sleep. Wake me when we get home, okay?"

    Without waiting for a reply, she quickly shut her eyes and feigned sleep.

    Lyman could tell she was faking, but he just yed along, indulging her. "Alright," he said gently.

    He reached over and took her hand. Effie tensed, her heart suddenly pounding.

    But Lyman simply closed his eyes again and settled back, pretending to nap as well.

    After a few moments, Effie let out a quiet sigh of relief. She cracked one eye open and peeked at him-he was still "sleeping." Feeling reassured, she closed her eyes for real this time.

    When they finally arrived, Lyman got out of the car.

    Effie thought, That''s odd. Why didn''t he wake me up?

    She opened her eyes to find Lyman already outside, walking around to her side of the car. He opened her door, tooking every bit like he was about to pick her up and carry her inside.

    Effie jumped out quickly. "Oh! We''re... we''re home?"

    Lyman''s lips twitched with amusement. "What a shame."

    Effie blinked at him. "Shame about what?"

    "I missed my chance to be your knight in shining armor. The opportunity''s gone

    now," he said, feigning disappointment.

    She stared at him for a second, then burst outughing.

    Effie reached her hand toward him in invitation, and Lyman seemed to catch her

    meaning. He leaned in closer.

    "We could still fix that," she said with a grin.

    "Good point," Lyman replied.

    He scooped her up in his arms. ¡°Let''s go. Time to head home."

    "Am I too heavy?" Effie whispered, nestled against his chest.

 Chapter 403

    Lyman leaned in close and whispered in Effie''s ear, "You have put on a little weight."

    Effie froze, speechless.

    Honestly, this man had no filter. What woman wanted to hear something like that?

    But then Lyman added, "I like you with a bit more weight. Before, you were too thin-there was nothing to hold onto."

    A flush crept up Effie''s cheeks. She looked away, mumbling under her breath, "Who even talks like that..."

    Lyman reached for her hand, his gaze warm. "Whether you''re slim or curvy, you''re exactly my type."

    "You really know how to sweet-talk me."

    Lyman smiled. "Time will tell."

    Effie''s phone buzzed, the screen shing with a call from Mitchell Lloyd''s assistant. She didn''t want to answer.

    The assistant called again. And again. Eventually, Effie got so fed up that she blocked the number entirely.

    Finally, some peace and quiet.

    She thought that would be the end of it.

    But as fate would have it, while she was out having lunch with Shirley, Mitchell showed up in person.

    Effie was tucked away in the corner of a busy caf¨¦, slowly twirling her noodles around her fork. Her delicate features seemed almost luminous, setting her apart from the noisy crowd.

    She ate with a natural grace, each movement refined and elegant, making her all the more noticeable in the bustling diner.

    Mitchell spotted her instantly.

    He made his way over.

    Effie was feeling a bit warm and reached for a napkin, but before she could, a hand holding a paper napkin appeared in front of her.

    At first, she thought Shirley must have returned from the restroom, but something felt off.

    Shirley''s hands weren''t thisrge.

    Effie looked up and saw Mitchell''s face. Her brow furrowed in annoyance, and she didn''t bother taking the napkin from him.

    Mitchell stood there, napkin awkwardly extended, quickly losing patience.

    He said, "Effie..."

    She gave him a cool nce. "What? Are you about to lose your temper again? We''re done, Mitchell. You

    have no business being "do

    so

    us both a favor and leave."

    Mitchell snapped back to reality. Right he was here to ask Effie for help.

    He set the napkin down slowly, licking his lips nervously. "Effie, would youe with me to meet-"

    "I won''t," Effie cut him off before he could finish.

    Mitchell''s jaw tightened, frustration shing in his eyes. "Effie, E&M is something we built together from scratch. Are you really going to just stand by and watch everything we worked for go up in mes?"

    Effie''s tone was icy. "So now you finally admit I had a stake in thepany?"

    Back when he bought out her shares, he''d acted like she was shameless, as if she''d taken advantage of him at every turn.

    Mitchell was momentarily at a loss for words. What happened then was one thing; this was now.

    The truth was, deep down, he still believed he was the one who had done all the heavy lifting.

    In his mind, without him, thepany would never have taken off.

    But facing Effie now, needing her help, he knew better than to say that out loud.

    He swallowed hard. "Effie, Ryan-the

    diamond supplier-he''s always valued family loyalty. Now he''s heard about our... falling out. He won''t Supply us with diamonds anymore. You know as well as I do, his are the purest stones, and his supply is the most reliable. I don''t want to see E&M destroyed over something like this. You get what I''m saying, right?"

    Effie looked him in the eye. "I get it..."

    Mitchell''s hope flickered-until she added, "But I don''t feel the least bit sorry for

    you."

 Chapter 404

    "Effie." Mitchell''s voice dropped, his jaw clenched around her name.

    It was painfully obvious he was barely keeping his temper in check.

    Effie''s lips curled into a faint, almost mocking smile. Well, isn''t this rare-looks like even he knows when to back down.

    But what did that have to do with her?

    "Mitchell, whatever was between us is over. That''s just a fact. And Ryan isn''t unreasonable if you really fix things between yourpanies, I doubt he''ll go out of his way to make life difficult for you. So there''s no need to beg me. Sort out your own mess beforeing to me."

    Effie felt no pity for him. She only said this to stop Mitchell from pestering her any further.

    Let''s end things cleanly, she thought.

    But Mitchell saw only ridicule in herposure. He gritted his teeth. "Effie, you really won''t help me?"

    "I won''t," Effie replied, her tone t.

    Mitchell''s eyes shed with frustration. "Fine. Just don''t say I didn''t warn you," he spat, then turned and stormed out.

    Effie frowned, a chill of unease prickling at her.

    Mitchell was already on the edge; she couldn''t be sure what he''d do next, what lines he might cross.

    Still, worrying endlessly over the unknown was pointless.

    She''d deal with whatever came, when it came.

    "Effie, are you okay?" Shirley walked over.

    She''d actuallye back earlier, but had hung back, watching from a distance. If Mitchell hadid a hand on Effie, she''d been ready to grab the nearest chair and brain him with it.

    Luckily, Mitchell hadn''t lost it.

    When Effie heard what Shirley had been thinking, she couldn''t help but smirk. "Wow... you''re a force to be reckoned with."

    Shirley blushed, embarrassed.

    "Effie, this is my first design since going full-time. What do you think?" Shirley entered Effie''s office, holding her portfolio out with both hands.

    Maybe it was the newfound confidence that came with her official status, but this time her

    designs were bolder-fresh

    stylish, and unmistakably her own

    Effie nodded, genuinely impressed. "Not bad. These could go straight into production."

    "Really? No revisions?" Shirley''s eyes widened.

    Effie propped her chin on one hand and looked at her. "Do you see anything that needs changing?"

    Shirley shook her head. "I couldn''t spot anything¡ªthat''s why I brought them to you."

    "Well, I don''t see anything either," Effie said.

    "So... so that means..."

    "I''ll send your designs to the production team," Effie finished for her.

    "Wow! That''s amazing! I finally have my own pieces going into production!"

    Shirley''s face lit up with pure joy.

    Effie smiled. "If no one elsees up with a stronger design this month, yours will be our featured product."

    Shirley stood there, stunned. She''d

    been thrilled just to see her work made real-she''d never even

    ve

    might be thepany''s gship.

    For a moment, she was speechless.

    Effie grinned at her. "You should look forward to it."

    Shirley snapped out of her daze and nodded eagerly. "I am! I really am!" "Keep it up," Effie encouraged. "Design something even better next time." "Will do!"

    Shirley practically floated out of the office, still buzzing with excitement.

    Her coworkers immediately gathered around, asking what had happened.

    She didn''t mention the possibility of her design bing thepany''s main feature-she only said Effie was very pleased with her work.

    Even so, it earned her a few

    admiring looks from the others, and

    some started to think maybe Effie was a lot easier to impress than they''d thought.

 Chapter 405

    The other members of the design department thought Effie would be easy to fool, so they grabbed a few discarded drafts and handed them in as their submissions.

    They assumed they''d breeze through approval just like Shirley had. To their surprise, Effie tore into them with a sharp critique.

    "If you think you can just coast by with work like this, maybe you shouldn''t be at The Etheridge Group at all. We don''t keep dead weight here! You''re earning a generous sry, yet you''re just cking off? If that''s the case, you might as well leave and make room for people who actually care about their work."

    The hopeful few who''d tried to cut corners flushed with embarrassment, shuffling out of Effie''s office with their heads down.

    But Effie''s feedback wasn''t just empty criticism. She pointed out every w in their designs, giving them clear directions for improvement and a real shot at learning.

    In this regard, Effie was already miles ahead of their previous manager, Irving Butler.

    "I never expected Miss Bagnold to be so tough," someone whispered. "She always seemed pretty easygoing."

    "That''s not entirely fair," another chimed in. "I just went to her to ask for time off because my son has a fever and my husband''s out of town. I told her I needed to pick him up from daycare and take him to the doctor. She agreed to let me go- but said I''d need to make up the hourster."

    "That''s already way better than what Irving would''ve done. He never let us take any personal days."

    Gradually, the team began to ept Effie as their manager.

    Shirley was especially pleased. She couldn''t wait to share the good news with Effie.

    When the workday ended, Effie gathered everyone and said, "Thepany needs efficient employees, not people who wait until after hours to get things done just so they can look ''hardworking.'' Once your shift is over, your time is your own -I won''t bother you. If something unusuales up, like entertaining clients with me, it will count as overtime, and you''ll earn triple pay."

    She paused, then added, "These aren''t just empty promises. I''ll be reporting all of this to upper management so you can have a better work environment. Of course, while I''m doing my best, I hope you''ll all keep striving to improve as well."

    As her words sank in, everyone broke into genuine apuse.

    If Effie could keep this up and never lose sight of her ideals, she really would be the perfect leader.

    Effie was in high spirits as she left the office. On her way home, she stopped by the market, picking up carrots and a few other

    ries.

    Once home, she made a light soup, pickled some carrots, and whipped up a couple of side dishes.

    Lyman arrived to find Effie busy in the kitchen. He paused, slightly surprised.

    He quickly set down his bag and said, ¡°Let me help."

    Effie patted his hand. "It''s almost done. Just wash up, dinner''s ready."

    Lyman nced over the food on the table. It

    gourmight not have looked

    but it was far from

    unappetizing.

    It actually reminded him a little of a meal he''d had once after a night of drinking.

    Effie brought over thest dish and set it down. "Don''t just stand there-go wash your hands."

    Lyman nodded, looking around curiously. "Hey, where''s your grandmother?"

    "Today''s the first Sunday of the month," Effie replied. "She always goes to church with her old friends and Stays for a vegetarian meal. Didn''t I mention it before?"

    Lyman shook his head. "No, but now I know."

    "Go wash up so we can eat," Effie said.

    "Alright."

    Lyman took his seat and started eating.

    He tried Effie''s cooking. It wasn''t exactly a culinary masterpiece, but it was perfectly decent.

    "Honestly, it''s nice to have something light for a change," he said.

 Chapter 406

    Grandma always worried about how hard they worked, so she usually prepared hearty meals for them-rich,forting dishes meant to fill them up after a long day. But after a while, even the bestfort food can start to feel heavy.

    That''s why, every now and then, switching things up with a lighter meal was a wee change, and Lyman actually enjoyed it.

    He said, "Next time I know Grandma''s out at church for prayers, I''ll get home early and cook dinner."

    Effie replied, "No worries. If you''re free, you cook; if I''m free, I''ll cook. No need to make it anyone''s job."

    "Alright," Lyman agreed.

    "This is really good," he said to Effie with a smile.

    Effie knew her own cooking skills and felt a little embarrassed. "This is about as

    good as I get, but if you actually like my food, I''ll try to learn more."

    Lyman shook his head. ¡°You don''t have to. It''s already great. Everyone has things they''re good at. You don''t have to be perfect at everything."

    Effie nodded. "Mm."

    When they finished eating, Lyman started clearing the tes.

    "I''ll do it," Effie offered.

    "Nope. You cooked, so let me handle the dishes. Besides, it''s just loading the dishwasher-won''t take long."

    Effie smiled. ¡°Alright, then I''ll pick out a documentary for us to watch together."

    "Sounds good."

    If Grandma had been home, she wouldn''t have let them use the dishwasher. Like many older folks, she was used to being frugal-doing things the hard way, almost like making life difficult for herself on purpose.

    While Lyman took care of the dishes, Effie began browsing for something to watch.

    "What should we watch?" she muttered to herself.

    Suddenly, her phone rang. She nced at the screen-Grandma was calling.

    Effie answered instantly, not suspecting a thing. "Grandma, you''re still up?"

    Grandma was always an early sleeper and an early riser; it was a habit she''d kept for years.

    But instead of Grandma''s familiar voice, there was only the sound of strange, heavy breathing.

    Effie frowned, thinking she must

    have misread the caller ID. Just as she was about to ask again, a.

    chillingly familiar voice cameget

    through the line. "Effie. It''s me."

    She froze, grip tightening around her phone.

    Before she could speak, Mitchell continued, "You''re a smart woman. I''m sure

    you''ve figured out by now-your grandmother is with me."

    "What do you want?" Effie''s words came out through gritted teeth.

    Mitchell''s answer was disturbingly light. "Lyman''s with you, isn''t he?"

    Effie said nothing, but her silence was answer enough.

    Mitchell went on, "Right now, you''re going to walk out the door. I''ll text you an

    address. Come alone. Don''t say a word to anyone."

    He paused, his tone turning cold. "You know, older people are so fragile. A little slip, an ident, a sudden pain... You wouldn''t want your grandmother to get hurt, would you?"

    Effie''s jaw clenched. "Fine."

    "You know what I want. Help me smooth things over tonight-get my business back on track-and your grandmother won''t be harmed. But if you tryto y tough or call the police, I can''t guarantee her safety. Do you understand?"

    If anger could kill, Mitchell would have been torn apart by now.

    "I understand," Effie replied, voice icy.

    She didn''t hang up. Grabbing her phone and keys, she headed for the door.

    ¡°Babe, Nita called¡ªshe needs to see me about something. I''m heading out for a

    bit," she called to Lyman in the kitchen.

    "Want me to drive you?" Lyman called back.

 Chapter 407

    Hearing Effie call someone "darling," Mitchell''s breath quickened.

    How could Effie call another man that? Effie was supposed to be his.

    Just then, Lyman stepped out from the kitchen, drying his hands with a towel. "Let me drive you," he offered. "It''s not safe to be out on the road alone at night."

    Before Effie could respond, Mitchell''s voice crackled through her earpiece with a sharp order. "Turn him down!"

    Effie turned to Lyman. "No need, really. It''s just a girls'' night. It''d be a little awkward if a guy showed up. If she sees you, it''ll just make things ufortable."

    Mitchell''s chest swelled with satisfaction as he listened in. The sense of control over Effie was intoxicating.

    Lyman nodded. "Alright then. Drive safe, okay?"

    "I will," Effie replied.

    Lyman walked her to the door himself. As Effie slid behind the wheel, she nced

    at him, hesitating as if wanting to say something more.

    He noticed. Leaning down, he rested his arms on the open window, grinning. "What''s wrong? Can''t bear to leave me?"

    Effie gave a small, affirmative hum.

    Lyman reached in to ruffle her hair. "It''s not like we won''t see each other soon. Go on, hurry up ande back safe."

    Effie nodded, her voice soft. "Bye, darling."

    "See you soon."

    She pulled away, the car disappearing into the night.

    Barely a momentter, Mitchell''s icy, furious voice rang in her ears. "Effie, do you have any idea how nauseating your cutesy act sounds?"

    Effie''s reply was cold, her tone edged with steel. "Mitchell, did you really think I''d go along with everything you say? I''m only cooperating to keep my grandma safe. But I don''t have to put up with your constant jabs and mockery."

    "Oh? Aren''t you afraid I''ll do something to your precious grandma?"

    "If youy a finger on her, I won''t hold back," Effie shot back. "If you want to go down, I''ll make sure I go down swinging."

    Mitchell hadn''t expected her to keep herposure, even with her grandmother''s safety hanging in the bnce.

    He sneered. "I guess your grandma would be so disappointed, having a granddaughter like you who doesn''t even care if she lives or dies."

    Effie didn''t

    none of your business. Just sendes ch. "Our rtionship is Now shut your mouth." Contime.

    address. I''ll be there on time.

    Mitchell mmed the call off, seething. He sent her the address a momentter.

    He''d done his homework-he knew

    Ryan''s travel ns and wanted to corner him at the airport. So,

    Vel ns and wanted to

    naturally, the address he sent Effie was for the airport.  fo

    When Effie arrived, Mitchell was already waiting.

    He watched her approach, a sly, possessive smile curling on his lips.

    As she drew closer, he reached out to grab her hand-but Effie sidestepped him without hesitation.

    Being near Mitchell made her skin crawl. Even the air felt suffocating.

    "I''ll help you find Ryan," Effie said tly, "but keep your hands to yourself. Otherwise, I won''t hesitate to break them."

    Mitchell pressed on, unwilling to give up. "If you don''t act close to me, why would Ryan ever believe it?"

    He moved toward her again, but Effie only stepped further away, keeping a careful distance.

    Mitchell''s temper red. He ground his teeth and hissed, "Effie, do you even know what you''re doing?"

    "I know exactly what I''m doing," she replied coolly. "Maybe you''re the one not thinking straight. Did you really believe that ckmailing me into helping you-just this once-would magically fix what''s broken between us?"  s?novel

    Mitchell''s face went red, then pale, warring emotions flickering across his features.

 Chapter 408

    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¡ª"

    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.

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 Chapter 409

    Effie paid absolutely no attention to Mitchell. She chatted easily with Ryan and the others, as if he didn''t exist.

    Back when Ryan first agreed to work with E&M, it was really only because he loved Effie''s designs-and his wife adored them even more. Their wedding anniversary rings had been designed by Effie herself.

    If Effie was no longer with E&M, then thepany had lost its soul. There was no

    real reason to continue the partnership. And even if they did, Ryan certainly wouldn''t offer such a generous price again.

    Ryan leaned back and said, "There''s no need for pleasantries. We''re all businesspeople here-let''s keep it professional."

    Mitchell''s heart skipped a beat. Was this deal about to fall apart? If it did, it would be all Effie''s fault-she was the one refusing to cooperate!

    Mrs. Ryan turned to Effie, her expression curious. "Is it true? You two have broken up?"

    Effie''s lips parted as she prepared to answer.

    Worried she might say something reckless, Mitchell gave a pointed cough-a warning. Unfortunately, he coughed louder than intended, drawing everyone''s attention.

    Effie didn''t spare him a nce. Calmly, she replied, "Yes, it''s true. Mitchell and I are no longer together."

    "Effie, you-"

    Finally, Effie looked at Mitchell. Her gaze was steady, unfazed by his silent threats.

    She said, "Even though Mitchell and I have parted ways, Mr. Ryan, you should make your own decision about whether to continue working with E&M Group."

    Mitchell leaned in, lowering his voice so only Effie could hear. "Why would you say that? Are you trying to ruin me?" His hands clenched so tightly his knuckles turned white.

    Damn it, Effie! What use are you?

    Ryan nodded. "Thank you for your honesty. I''ll give it serious thought."

    Sensing Ryan''s resolve wavering, Mitchell quickly tried to recover. "Mr. Ryan,

    E&M is still very eager to work with you. If you''d just¡ª"

    But Ryan cut him off, his tone polite but cool. I''m here today to catch up with old friends, not to discuss

    business. If I decide to continue our I partnership, my assistant will reach out to you."

    Mitchell''s smile froze for a moment, but he forced it back into ce. "Of course."

    Ryan hadn''t agreed to anything, but at least there was still a chance¡ªhe''d left the door open for further talks.

    Meanwhile, Effie and Mrs. Ryan picked up their conversation.

    "So, you and Mitchell ended things. Are you still designing?" Mrs. Ryan asked.

    "Of course," Effie replied, her eyes sparkling. "Jewelry design is my greatest passion. As long as I''m inspired, I''ll keep creating."

    "Where are you working now? I''d love to have you design something for me again." Mrs. Ryan smiled warmly.

    "I''m with The Etheridge Group now," Effie said, handing over a business card.

    "My, look at you with your own business cards!" Mrs. Ryanughed, ncing at the card. "Congrattions-you''re head of the design department now!"

    In the past, Effie had worked for

    Mitchell without any title or

    recognition. Now that she''d left him

    behind, her life was finally moving forward. She was a manager now how could Mrs. Ryan not be happy for her?

    Effie thanked her sincerely.

    Mitchell tried to interject, but he couldn''t get a word in edgewise. The frustration gnawed at him.

    And then it hit him-Effie was

    passing out her business cards and

    telling Mrs. Ryan where she worked

    now Was she trying to steal his clients right in front of him?

 Chapter 410

    Mitchell was seething with anger, but with Mr. and Mrs. Ryan standing right there, he had no choice but to swallow his words.

    Just you wait, he thought to himself. The moment Mr. and Mrs. Ryan leave, Effie is going to pay for this.

    It wasn''t long before an airline attendant came over to let them know that Mr. and Mrs. Ryan''s flight was boarding.

    The Ryans said their goodbyes to Effie, clearly reluctant to leave her. Their attitude toward Mitchell, however, was far from warm.

    Mitchell, for the sake of appearances and future cooperation, could do nothing but grit his teeth and force a polite smile.

    As soon as the Ryans actually left, Mitchell finally let his temper loose.

    "Effie, do you even know what you''re doing?" he hissed between clenched teeth.

    Effie shot him a cool nce, a mocking smile ying on her lips. "Mitchell, did you really think you could threaten me by using my grandmother?"

    Mitchell''s heart skipped a beat. What did she mean by that?

    Could it be...

    He fumbled for his phone, dialing the numbers of the people he''d put on the job, but every call went straight to voicemail.

    Effie looked at him and said, "If you want to make a call right now, you should call your mom and ask her to find someone to help you. But you know, ordering someone to kidnap an innocent old woman-that''s a crime that couldnd you behind bars for a good while."

    Mitchell''s pupils contracted. Shock and rage shed across his face.

    "Effie, you really are ungrateful! You cast aside the old for the new without a second thought! Are you just going to toss aside everything we had together so easily?" he demanded, his voice twisted with pain.

    Effie had no interest in continuing this argument. Their rtionship had ended the moment he cheated; whatever love they once shared had long since faded from her memory.

    She couldn''t even recall thest time she''d thought about Mitchell.

    "Effie, E&M was our life''s work! Are you really going to destroy it?" Mitchell''s anger only grew as Effie ignored him, every word practically dripping with venom, as though he wanted to tear her apart.

    He charged toward her, reaching out to grab her by the shoulders.

    Before he could touch her, Lyman appeared out of nowhere, wrapping an arm

    firmly around Effie''s waist and pulling her to his side.

    Effie leaned into Lyman''s embrace, breathing in the familiar scent that never failed to calm her.

    "Darling," she whispered.

    Lyman looked her over. "Are you okay?"

    Effie shook her head, clutching at his sleeve, her voice tight with worry. "What about Grandma? Is she alright?¡±

    "She''s fine. Just a little shaken up, but she''s waiting for us in the car," Lyman reassured her.

    "Good. Let''s go see her."

    With that, Effie and Lyman turned to leave.

    Mitchell panicked, calling after her, ¡°Effie¡ª!¡±

    She paused and nced back at him. ¡°Mitchell, you''d better prepare yourself. Thew ising for you."

    Mitchell felt a chill run down his

    spine.

    was as if all the strengthet.

    had drained from his body, and he copsed helplessly onto the floor.

    No. He couldn''t just sit here and do nothing!

    Desperately, Mitchell pulled out his phone and dialed Adeline. "Mom, you have to save me this time!"

    Adeline, meanwhile, was in the

    middle of a heated argument with Mitchell''s father. He wanted to bring his illegitimate child into theiofamily and give the child their name.

    Adeline could turn a blind eye to her husband''s affairs, let him have his fun outside, but she absolutely could not stand the idea of those bastardsying im to what was rightfully hers!

    Right in the middle of their shouting match, her phone rang-it was Mitchell.

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 Chapter 411

    Adeline could hear the strain in Mitchell Lloyd''s voice, and her nerves instantly tightened. "What''s wrong? Who''s in trouble?" she asked, her voice trembling.

    Mitchell''s reply came quick and anxious. "It''s me."

    A chill ran through Adeline; an ominous premonition seized her.

    After Mitchell finished exining what had happened, Adeline couldn''t help but snap, ¡°You little... sweetheart!" Her words were sharp butced with anxious affection.

    Mitchell was too desperate to care about her scolding. "Mom, please, you have to help me. I... I don''t want to go to jail."

    Adeline''s mind raced. She would never let Mitchell end up behind bars. If he went to prison, she''d lose every bargaining chip she had left.

    "I know what to do. Don''t move, just stay where you are and wait for the police to find you," she instructed, her tone urgent.

    If Mitchell ran, it would look like he was trying to flee from his crime.

    She hung up, ready to rush out the door, but Mitchell''s father blocked her path.

    He looked at Adeline with a steely, almost threatening gaze. "As long as you agree to sort out the residency papers, I''ll help him."

    Rage red on Adeline''s face. She shouted, "Are you even human? That''s your son! And you''re using him to threaten me?"

    He just shrugged, looking at her with a smirk and that shameless air he always wore. "My hands are tied. You''re the one who forced me into this."

    He was convinced Adeline was cornered now, certain she''de begging.

    But seeing there was no room to negotiate, Adeline stormed out, mming the door behind her.

    Mitchell''s father watched her go, the corner of his mouth curling into a smug smile. He was sure Adeline would be back.

    Effie Bagnold followed Lyman Etheridge out of the airport. The

    moment she spotted her grandmother''s car at the curb, she broke away from Lyman''s hand and sprinted toward it. "Grandma!"

    "Effie!" her grandmother called, her voice trembling with relief. In that instant, the

    worry that had weighed on her heart melted away.

    Effie threw herself into her grandmother''s arms, hugging her tight, just like she used to as a child whenever she wantedfort.

    Her grandmother gently patted Effie''s back, voice soothing and warm. "There, there, sweetheart. It''s all right now. Everything''s fine.¡±

    Effie''s eyes reddened, tears threatening to spill over. Her face was swollen from holding back the emotion, and the next second, she couldn''t keep from crying.

    It had been so long since she''d let herself cry. Ever since losing her mother she''d learned one harsh lesson tears win no sympathy. They only show weakness, making you an easy target for cruelty.

    But now, holding her grandmother, it felt like she''d gotten back something precious she thought she''d lost forever. She clung to her, determined never to let go again.

    Suddenly, the piercing wail of sirens echoed from not far away. Effie realized the police must havee to arrest Mitchell. Serves him right, she thought. He had iting.

    ¡°Grandma, did they do anything to you?" Effie asked, eyeing her grandmother anxiously, searching for any sign of harm.

    Her grandmother was touched by Effie''s concern. "Oh, darling, I''m fine. They just wouldn''t let me leave the house or call you. That''s all. Nothing else happened."

    "Even so, he still held you hostage and used you to threaten me!" Effie said through gritted teeth. She would never forgive Mitchell.

    Her grandmother nodded. "He deserves a lesson. Otherwise, he''ll think he can get away with anything."

    "I''m just so d you''re okay," Effie murmured, nuzzling into her grandmother''s shoulder like an affectionate kitten,pletely forgetting about Lyman.

    Watching Effie snuggle in her grandmother''s arms, Lyman couldn''t help but think ¡ªif only Effie would act that sweet around him, he wouldn''t mind at all.

 Chapter 412

    Adeline was out of options. Desperate, she dialed Director Nichols.

    That phone call was supposed to be herst resort, a trump card she''d been saving for when she faced that man. But now, saving Mitchell had toe first- her son could not, under any circumstances, go to jail.

    She called Director Nichols again and again, but he didn''t pick up. Each time her call went to voicemail, a cold dread settled deeper in her chest.

    With nowhere else to turn, Adeline found herself standing outside Director Nichols'' house in the middle of the night.

    When he opened the door and saw who it was, Director Nichols just stared at her, speechless. He looked weary, exasperated. "You really think it''s wise toe here, at a time like this?"

    Adeline hesitated. "What do you mean?"

    He let out a heavy sigh. "You know exactly what I mean."

    He studied her, almost with pity. "Adeline, you''re a smart woman. So how did you end up raising a son like Mitchell? Do you have any idea? No one up top is willing to touch this mess. If I intervened, I''d be finished-my job, my reputation, everything. Do you honestly think I''d risk that for you?"

    Adeline''s brow furrowed as realization dawned on her. "So there''s nothing you can do? At all?"

    He shook his head. "I''m sorry. The best I can manage is to make sure your son''s time inside isn''t unbearable. That''s all."

    "What?!" The words hit her like a bolt of lightning. She staggered, nearly losing her bnce.

    "Nichols Director Nichols, please, I''m begging you."

    Adeline dropped to her knees and bowed her head to him, pleading. But it was pointless. Even if he''d once promised her anything, there was no way he''d throw away his entire career for her sake now. He was only a few years away from a dignified retirement; he couldn''t afford even the slightest risk.

    Director Nichols didn''t even reach out to help her up. His tone was cold, final. "That''s enough. You need to go. Out of respect for old times, I''m letting you leave quietly. If you refuse, I''ll have security escort you out and you''ll only embarrass yourself."

    Her face twisted with anguish. She knew it was over.

    Slowly, Adeline pulled herself to her feet, shoulders slumped, and stumbled out

    the door. On her way down the steps, she nearly tripped.

    "It''s over... everything''s over," she muttered, her voice hollow.

    Suddenly, her phone rang. She nced at the screen-Suzan Bagnold.

    A sh of disgust crossed her face. After all, it was Suzan''s fault she''d lost her grandchild, and Adeline

    haven confronted her about it.

    Suzan had the nerve to call?

    Still, as if possessed, Adeline answered.

    Suzan''s anxious voice tumbled through the phone: "Aunt Adeline, please, don''t hang up I have a way to help Mitchell."

    Adeline froze, her heart skipping a beat. Of course! How could she have forgotten-Suzan''s uncle was Lionel Harper, one of the wealthiest men in the city. If Lionel stepped in, maybe there was hope.

    Here, only Lionel had the clout to stand up to someone like Lyman. If Lyman weren''t involved, Director Nichols wouldn''t be so scared, wouldn''t have refused her.

    She had to seize this opportunity.

    Adeline''s tone transformed instantly, bing warm and eager. "Hang up on you? Why would I ever do that?"

    On the other end, Suzan heard the change in her voice and knew she had Adeline exactly where she wanted her. Now, she could finally reveal her true intentions.

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 Chapter 413

    "Hurry,e with me-we need to save Mitchell!" Adeline pleaded, her voice tight with anxiety as she turned to Suzan.

    For a moment, Suzan fellpletely silent. The quiet on the other end of the line was so deep, it sent a chill down Adeline''s spine.

    A prickling sense of dread crept over her. She just knew something wasn''t right.

    Atst, Suzan spoke, her words careful and measured. "Aunt Adeline, people are driven by self-interest. What''s happened to Mitchell is serious. If I''m going to help him, it''s going to cost me-not just effort, but I''ll have to call in favors from my uncle."

    Before Adeline could reply, Suzan continued, "He told me himself: it''s not worth going to so much trouble for aplete outsider. So... do you understand what I''m saying?"

    Adeline was no fool; she caught Suzan''s meaning immediately.

    She hadn''t expected Suzan to be so fixated on Mitchell.

    Truth be told, Adeline had never thought much of Suzan before. But things were different now-Suzan''s uncle was a powerful man, and that sort of connection was worth leveraging.

    Adeline had already made up her mind, but she made a show of thinking it over before responding. "Alright. I''ll do it."

    Suzan said softly, "I''m not forcing you, you understand what I mean, right?"

    Adeline thought to herself, Suzan''s little schemes were written all over her face- how could anyone not see through her? Suzan wanted Mitchell to marry her of his own free will!

    Whether Mitchell''s heart would truly be in it-well, who could say?

    But as long as everything looked proper, as long as Suzan could hold her head

    high in front of others, that was enough for her, wasn''t it?

    "Fine," Adeline replied.

    Suzan''s lips curled into a determined, triumphant smile.

    Meanwhile, Lyman''s phone rang-Lionel was calling.

    "Mr. Harper." Lionel sounded hesitant, almost embarrassed. After a moment''s pause, he said, "I''m sorry to bother you at a time like this. Really, I apologize for the intrusion."

    Lionel hadn''t yet exined his reason for calling, but Lyman already had a good idea what this was about.

    The smile faded from Lyman''s face. He didn''t say a word.

    It took Lionel a few seconds to speak again. I know I shouldn''t be asking you for this favor, but the truth is, Mitchell didn''t really harm your mother-inw-he just made a reckless, extreme move. A little lesson should be enough. Tell you what: if you''re willing, from now on, I''ll make sure the Etheridge Group''s goodsing through my ports worldwide get a five percent tax break. What do you say?"

    Lyman let out a quiet, humorlessugh. "That''s quite an offer, Mr. Carter. Such a lucrative deal, all in exchange for that worthless fool Mitchell? Do you really think he''s worth it?"

    In his heart, Lionel looked down on Mitchell. It was bad enough the man was useless¡ªnow he''d stooped to threatening women and the elderly to get his way.

    If Mitchell had been his own son, Lionel would have dealt with him himself. He wouldn''t have let him see the light of day again.

    But none of that mattered. No matter what he thought, Suzan''s mind was made up¡ªshe was set on Mitchell. There was nothing he could do.

    Maybe it was guilt; he owed Suzan''s grandmother too much. Now that she was gone, Suzan-his only niece-was all he had left to make amends to.

    Lyman said, "I can''t make that decision on my own. I''ll need to discuss it with my wife."

    Effie was sitting right next to him, but Lyman saw no reason to let Lionel think this would be so easily resolved.

    Lionel could only sigh and say, "Alright. Think it over."

 Chapter 414

    After hanging up the phone, Lyman turned to Effie.

    Effie was leaning against his shoulder, a bunch of grapes in her hand. She held them high, popping them one by one into her mouth, savoring each bite.

    There were all sorts of grapes at the market these days, new varieties with exotic vors, but Effie always preferred the old-fashioned kind-Concord grapes. Their skins were thick, but you could spit them out, and the vor was rich and sweet, the flesh soft and juicy. Best of all, you didn''t have to peel them.

    Suddenly, Lyman reached out and gently took hold of her slender wrist, guiding her hand toward him.

    He opened his mouth and bit into a grape.

    Immediately, he winced. "Ugh... that''s sour."

    Effie burst outughing. She watched as his whole face scrunched up in protest, and she couldn''t help but find it hrious.

    "Can''t handle a little tartness?"

    Lyman shook his head. "Most of these are fine, but this one is just... sour and astringent."

    Effie looked at him in surprise. "Really? I thought they tasted perfectly sweet and tangy. I didn''t think they were that sour."

    "How is that possible?" he asked, still grimacing.

    He offered, "Here, why don''t you try-"

    Before Effie could react, Lyman leaned in for a kiss.

    But she pushed him away,ughing, "I can eat it myself, thank you very much."

    Lyman grinned, "Toote, I already swallowed it." He''d only been teasing her, anyway.

    After a moment, when they''d both rxed, Lyman turned to Effie. "So, what do you think?"

    ¡°Think about what?¡± she replied, even though she knew exactly what he meant. But she hadn''t quite made up her mind.

    Was she really ready to let Mitchell off the hook so easily?

    A sh of indignation passed through her.

    Lyman continued, "If Lionel is willing to make such a big concession to tempt me, that just proves he''s absolutely determined to get Mitchell out. Even if we refuse, he''ll find a way. Making this call was just his way of informing us."

    Effie nodded. "Yeah."

    "If we agree, we''ll actually end up with the better end of the deal."

    Lyman added, "Lionel''s making all these sacrifices just to get Mitchell out, so Mitchell is probably going to be tied to Suzan for life.¡±

    As long as Suzan kept Mitchell in check, Lyman could rest easy. In fact, it''d be

    best if Suzan and Mitchell were bound together forever.

    On that point, Effie and Lyman were in perfect agreement. They both felt it was a deal worth taking.

    Still, they had to talk to Grandma

    first. After all, she was the one who''d been wronged-they couldn''t just go behind her back and agree without her consent.

    ???

    When Effie and Lyman exined everything to Grandma, she said, "Why wouldn''t we take such a good deal? Don''t underestimate five percent-it''s still a handsome sum."

    "Uncle, why haven''t they called yet?" Suzan asked anxiously. "Are they really

    going to keep fighting us on this? What are we supposed to do?"

    She''d already promised Adeline that Mitchell would be back soon, but now

    everything was in limbo. What was she supposed to tell her?

    Strangely, Lionel saw this as a chance for Suzan to back out if she wanted. For him, business always came first-romance was never a priority.

    It was just a shame Suzan didn''t seem all that bright.

    Neither did Vera, for that matter-she only ever cared about a quick buck.

    Neither of them resembled him in looks or temperament, and yet the DNA test results were unmistakable...

 Chapter 415

    Lionel did his best to be patient as he looked at Suzan. "Are you sure you don''t want to reconsider?" he asked.

    Suzan blinked, momentarily confused. She met Lionel''s gaze and replied, "Reconsider what? Whether to have a destination wedding or something more traditional?"

    Lionel could only stare at her in disbelief. Sometimes he genuinely wondered what went on in Suzan''s head. What kind of shoddy craftsmanship could have created a brain like that?

    Since subtle hints weren''t working, he decided to be blunt.

    "I''m talking about Mitchell. That guy''s unreliable. Are you sure you don''t want to reconsider¡ªmaybe find someone else? As your uncle, I can introduce you to any number of promising young men."

    Suzan stared at him, then her face drained of color. She shook her head

    vigorously, her eyes going ssy with tears. For a moment, she looked like she might break down entirely.

    Voice trembling, she said, "Uncle, is my request just too much for you? If it really is, I... I''ll figure something out myself."

    Lionel felt a stab of guilt as he saw her like this.

    Fine, he thought. Let this make up for past regrets.

    If he couldn''t be good to his mother, he could at least be good to her descendants -his family, too.

    He sighed. "Forget it. You''ve set your mind on Mitchell-ten wild horses couldn''t pull you away."

    Just then, Lyman called back. He agreed.

    Lionel''s mouth curled into a knowing smile, as if he''d expected this all along.

    Suzan, on the other hand, was over the moon.

    "That''s wonderful, really wonderful!" she eximed.

    "I''m going to get changed. I have to look my absolute best when I go to bring Mitchell home!"

    As soon as Suzan left, Yvette came in carrying a mug of herbal tea. "Honey, have some ginseng tea. It''ll help you unwind," Yvette said.

    Lionel used to drink coffee¡ªfour or five cups a day, sometimes more. But then his stomach started acting up. The acid reflux got so bad that just one cup would leave a Urking pain. The doctor told him,

    half joking, that he could keep

    drinking if he didn''t mind risking his

    health.

    Even though experts were saying these days that moderate coffee was fine, there

    were still the issues with caffeine and its side effects.

    No matter what it was, too much of anything was never good for you.

    With Yvette''s help, Lionel had gradually weaned himself off coffee. It hadn''t been easy at first-he suffered through headaches and fatigue-but after a few days, those symptoms faded. Now he was free of caffeine, and he felt a lot more clear-headed.

    Yvette set down the tea and reached out to gently massage the furrow in Lionel''s brow. "What''s wrong? You seem upset."

    Lionel hesitated. "Have you ever thought... Suzan and her mother don''t really resemble me at all?"

    Yvette smiled. ¡°Why does that matter? My brother and I have the same parents, but we couldn''t be more different-both in looks and personality. And you and Vera, same mother but different fathers¡ªthe differences are bound to be even greater."

    Lionel frowned. He knew she was right, but he couldn''t shake the strange feeling gnawing at him.

    He just couldn''t tell whether it was all in his head.

    "Oh, don''t overthink it," Yvette said, reassuringly. ¡°You spent a year searching all over the country and finally found them. That''s fate-you should treasure it."

    She paused and added, "If things go well, maybe we can all be one big family and keep in touch often. If¨¨ you don''t like them, well, once you''ve done what you need to do, you can just keep your distance. Whatever you decide, I''ll support you

 Chapter 416

    Lionel reached for Yvette''s hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "Darling, you always understand me best," he said with a warm smile.

    After spending a little while with Lionel in the study, Yvette quietly slipped out.

    She made her way to Teresa Harper''s room but found it empty. A wave of anxiety hit her, and she hurried out into the hallway.

    ¡°Teresa''s missing! Everyone, start searching-now!" she called out.

    "Yes, ma''am!" came the immediate response from the staff.

    Just then, Teresa emerged from around the corner.

    Relief flooded Yvette''s face as she rushed over and took Teresa''s hand. "Teresa, why are you wandering off by yourself? This is a city hotel-there are all kinds of people around. It''s not safe."

    "Sorry, Mom," Teresa replied, her tone apologetic. "I was just bored in the room and wanted to look around a bit."

    "If you ever want to go out, you have to tell me first. I''ll go with you, okay?" Yvette said gently.

    Though Teresa wasn''t Yvette''s biological daughter, they had adopted her as a baby, and Yvette had long since loved her as her own.

    Back when they''d lived in ckmire, some criminals had found out Teresa was the daughter of a wealthy family and nearly kidnapped her. Ever since that incident, Lionel and Yvette had be much more cautious.

    Teresa nestled into Yvette''s arms, her voice sweet and obedient. "Okay, Mom. I understand."

    "Hey, where did you get this jacket?" Yvette asked, noticing the pale pink coat Teresa was wearing.

    "It''s from Suzan," Teresa replied. "She told me it''s a designer brand, super nice quality."

    A flicker ofplicated emotion passed over Yvette''s face. "Come on, let''s go. But in the future, don''t wear the clothes she gives you too often."

    Teresa looked up curiously. "Why not?"

    ¡°Because, sweetheart, I just don''t think those clothes really suit you."

    "Okay, I get it," Teresa replied, nodding.

    Yvette didn''t notice the tiny sh of triumph in Teresa''s eyes.

    Meanwhile, Suzan hurried out to call Adeline. The two of them rushed to the police station, and after finishing the paperwork, Mitchell was

    released on bail.

    It had only been a day, but Mitchell already looked worn out. His stubble was

    "Mitchell!" Suzan cried, throwing her arms around him in relief.

    The heavy scent of her perfume hit Mitchell, making his stomach churn. He pushed her away a little, grimacing. "Ugh, that''s disgusting. Don''t get so close to me."

    Suzan froze, her eyes reddening as if she might burst into tears at any moment.

    "You-"

    "Mitchell, apologize to Suzan," Adeline interrupted sternly. "If it weren''t for her, you wouldn''t have gotten out so easily."

    Mitchell stared at his mother, stunned. "Mom, why? Wasn''t it you who called Director Nichols..."

    At the mention of Director Nichols, a strange look flickered across Adeline''s face. She clearly didn''t wan to discuss what had happened the night before.

    Just then, Lyman exited the police station as well.

    Unlike Mitchell, Lyman was escorted out with respect. The officers and staff greeted him with polite smiles, an obvious contrast to Mitchell''s sorry state.

    Lyman seemed to notice Mitchell watching him and nced back in his direction.

    Mitchell felt a sharp pang of inferiority and lowered his head. "Mom, I want to go home."

    "Of course, let''s go," Adeline replied at once.

    Suzan tried to follow, but Mitchell stopped her cold. "Don''te with us."

 Chapter 417

    Suzan froze, her eyes filling with hurt as she looked at Mitchell. "Why?" she asked softly.

    Mitchell met her gaze, his brow furrowing. "Does everything need a reason? I just don''t want to see you right now."

    He couldn''t stand the thought of anyone, especially another woman, seeing him in such a humiliating state.

    Adeline, who knew Mitchell better than anyone¡ªafter all, she''d carried him for nine months-could read his thoughts as clearly as if he''d spoken them aloud.

    She stepped over to Suzan, her voice gentle. "Sweetheart, why don''t you go home for now? I''ll talk to him about the rest."

    Suzan''s lips pressed together in frustration, but after a moment''s hesitation, she nodded, swallowing her pride.

    "I understand. I''ll wait for your good news," she said to Adeline before turning to leave.

    Mitchell''s frown deepened as he nced from Adeline to Suzan''s retreating figure. Something wasn''t adding up. He had a nagging sense that the two women were hiding something from him.

    Once they were home, Adeline finally revealed the whole story.

    Mitchell felt like he was about to explode. "No. I don''t want to marry her."

    Adeline fixed him with a piercing look, as if she could see straight through to his soul. "If you don''t want to marry Suzan, then what¡ªare you nning to marry Effie instead?"

    Mitchell''s eyes widened, his lips pressed into a hard line as he fell silent. Deep down, he knew it was true. Effie was the only woman he''d ever truly wanted to marry.

    Adeline''s voice shot up, sharp as a whip. "Don''t even think about it, Mitchell! Effie has nothing to her name. I will never allow you to marry her!"

    "Even if you refuse to marry Suzan, it''s still not going to be Effie. Is that clear?" There was disappointment and anger in every word.

    Effie might be beautiful, but she''d already been married once-damaged goods, in Adeline''s eyes.

    She''s not good enough for my son!

    "And besides, there were conditions attached to getting you out. I''ve already made a promise to Suzan, and even if you''re not willing, it''s not up for debate!"

    "Mom! How could you make that decision without me?" Mitchell snapped, frustration boiling over.

    Adeline shot back, "What else was I supposed to do? Nichols doesn''t care about old ties, and I was out of options. That''s why I had to agree to Suzan''s terms."

    "Your father tried to ckmail me with that illegitimate son''s birth certificate. Even if he really could help you, I would never agree to his terms. Do you understand?"

    Mitchell felt like something heavy was pressing down on his chest, suffocating him. He couldn''t see a single way out.

    Helplessness washed over him, wrapping him in a cold, tight grip. He could hardly breathe.

    ***

    "Honey, have you ever heard of the Crawford family?" Marcia asked as she brushed her hair, ncing at Fowler Etheridge.

    Fowler''s eyes narrowed in suspicion. "Why bring up the Crawfords? The current head of the family is vice president of the business association-quite an influential man. What''s this about?"

    Marcia''s eyes sparkled with excitement as she set down her

    brush and turned to face him. "At the party the other day, Mrs. Crawford suddenly mentioned our Fidelia. She said she''s really fond of her."

    Fowler blinked, surprised, then a glint of excitement lit his eyes.

    "Are you serious?"

    Marcia nodded. "Absolutely. I''m sure Mrs. Crawford has taken a liking to Fidelia. She held my hand the whole time, asking all sorts of questions about her."

    Fowler grinned. "Then what are you waiting for? Strike while the iron''s hot!"

    Marcia smiled back. "If you think the Crawfords are a good match, I''ll make sure to follow up."

    Fowler nodded approvingly. "The

    Crawfords might not have as much wealth as the Etheridges, but they''ve been pirs of the businessmunity for generations,

    now they''ve produced a vic

    president. That says a lot. If we join families with them, maybe they can help us out. Do you think I''d have a chance against Lyman with their support?"

 Chapter 418

    Marcia nodded. "Lyman might be quite capable, but honestly, he''s an idiot for marrying someone like Effie. Sure, she''s beautiful, but she''s got nothing else going for her. Women like that are so easy to control. She''s absolutely no help for Lyman''s career, either. If you take the opportunity to join the Chamber of Commerce and be a board member or something, your status will naturally rise with it..."

    Fowler and Marcia exchanged nces, both grinning smugly.

    After some back-and-forth with Cami, Marcia finally hammered out the details: the two families would arrange a match between their children. Since both kids seemed pleased with each other, they decided to keep things simple and hold the introduction at home.

    Fowler felt their own house was the perfect stage to showcase the Etheridge family''s prestige-there was no way the other side wouldn''t be impressed.

    It wasn''t just Fowler''s immediate family who returned to Etheridge Mansion for the asion; Marcia made sure to summon Lyman''s entire family as well.

    Of course, at first, the reason for the gathering wasn''t disclosed. Everyone was simply told it was a family dinner.

    Even though Lyman and Friedman Etheridge had no idea what Fowler was nning, they came back anyway, along with the rest of the family.

    Once everyone had arrived, Marcia finally revealed her true intentions, looking positively triumphant.

    Charis offered polite praise. "This is wonderful news. You really should''ve told us earlier so we could have prepared."

    But inside, Charis was seething. That third branch of the family was insufferable¡ª dressed to the nines for what was supposed to be a simple family meal, while the rest of them turned up in everyday clothes,pletely unprepared.

    And really, who couldn''t pick up on Marcia''s smug undertones?

    Charis muttered quietly to Healy Etheridge, "Honestly, those two wear their schemes on their faces. As if everyone wouldn''t notice."

    Healy shrugged, replying, "Let them have their moment. They only have the one daughter, and she''s their little princess. This is probably their one chance to show off-there won''t be many more."

    Charis gave a little hum of

    agreement. "Just wait. I''ll find an et

    even better match for our Graham

    Etheridge someday. That''ll

    put them

    in their ce."

    Healy smiled knowingly. "No matter what, it can''t be as bad as what the eldest

    branch ended up with."

    Charisughed as well. "That''s true."

    Meanwhile, Lyman''s family sat

    calmly by chatting with Bancroft et

    Etheridge as if they lived in apletely different universe from all the petty squabbles around them.

    "Effie, do you y chess?" Bancroft asked, turning to her. "Would you y a

    round with your old grandad?"

    He was already thinking-even if

    Effie wasn''t good at chess, it didn''t matter. He could let her win. That way, his second and third sons

    families would see just how much

    he valued her, and they''d think twice before causing trouble.

    Effie smiled a little nervously. "Grandpa, I''m really not very good. If I mess up, please don''tugh at me."

    Lyman ced a reassuring hand on her shoulder and whispered in her ear, "Don''t worry. I''m here."

    Bancroft chuckled. ¡°No cheating¡ªI''ll be watching you both!"

    "Grandpa, it''s not cheating if we''re working as a team," Lyman replied with a grin.

    Effie nced back at him and couldn''t help but smile.

    Well, time to give it her best shot.

    At first, Bancroft assumed Effie had no idea how to y, so he deliberately went easy on her, making his moves absentmindedly.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 419

    Gradually, Bancroft began to feel the game slipping from his grasp.

    He nced over at Lyman, who sat calmly on the sidelines, barely moving a muscle, unfazed and unreadable.

    Could it be...

    Bancroft didn''t dare underestimate his opponents any longer. He sat up straighter, sharpening his focus.

    In the end, it was Effie who broke the silence with a soft, "Checkmate."

    Bancroft blinked and stared at the board in disbelief he was out of pieces.

    He''d lost. To Effie.

    The room, which had been filled with casual conversation, suddenly quieted as Bancroft''s surprised exmation drew everyone''s attention. Heads turned, curiosity piqued.

    "Did Grandpa let Effie win on purpose?" Marcia whispered, her voice barely audible.

    The others looked just as bewildered. None of them had paid much attention to the match, so no one really knew what had happened.

    No one answered Marcia, but every gaze drifted to the chessboard. It was obvious-Bancroft had only a handful of desperate pawns left, no hope of turning the tide.

    Leaning in, Marcia whispered to Fowler, "Grandpa''s always been the best yer in the family, hasn''t he?"

    Fowler nodded. Aside from Lyman, no one else in the house could ever beat him.

    Once the initial shock faded, everyone started to suspect Lyman had helped Effie win.

    Effie, still a bit embarrassed, said, "I''m sorry, I didn''t mean to win."

    Bancroft slowly gathered himself, trying to appear unfazed. "No need to

    apologize. That''s the way chess goes-sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. Perfectly normal."

    He paused, then added, "Let''s have another round."

    Effie hesitated. "Maybe someone else should y? You must be bored ying with me, Grandpa."

    Bancroft shook his head firmly. "No! No switching."

    He''d nned to let her win, but this time he''d lost for real-and he hated the feeling of losing control.

    "...Alright then," Effie agreed.

    Because Effie had beaten Bancroft once, everyone was on high alert as the second game began. No one wanted to miss a single move.

    Healy shot Graham a knowing look, and Graham immediately caught on.

    He walked over to Lyman and said, "Hey, can I ask you something? Minding over here for a second?"

    Lyman instantly saw through their little scheme. Effie''s victory hadn''t been his doing, but none of them knew that.

    Let them suspect what they want, he

    thought. Effie would win with or

    nex

    without him-and when she did, it

    would wipe the smug looks off their faces.

    Lyman followed Graham out of the room.

    As soon as Lyman left, even Bancroft seemed to breathe easier.

    But he didn''t let his guard down; if anything, he became more cautious, scrutinizing every move.

    Still, despite his careful y, Effie managed to capture his most valuable pieces in quick session.

    He frowned. Was he getting too nervous? Was that why he''d lost his favorite pieces so easily?

    No, he had to be even more careful now.

    Everyone could see it¡ªBancroft moved as if he were walking on eggshells, as though Effie had him dancing to her tune.

    Was he really taking it seriously, or was he just humoring Effie?

    Meanwhile, across town, Jacques Crawford was so furious at the prospect of a blind date that he was ready to pack his bags and leave home He couldn''t believe that in this day and age, he was still being subjected to such ridiculous tr¨¢ditions.

    He rounded on his mother, venting his anger in a storm of protest.

 Chapter 420

    Cami, on the other hand, looked perfectlyposed as if she already knew how things would turn out, with a hint of ¡°you''re going to regret this¡± in her eyes.

    Jacques was about to lose his mind. There was no way he wanted to go on a blind date. Regret? Not a chance!

    "You really won''t regret it?" Cami asked, arching an eyebrow.

    "Only an idiot would regret it!" Jacques shot back.

    "Alright then, I''ll just call the Etheridge family and let them know there''s an idiot in my house who refuses to meet Fidelia Etheridge," Cami replied coolly.

    Jacques had already been on his way out, but at those words, he froze mid-stride. He turned, stiff as a board, and looked at Cami, grinning like a fool. "Mom, are you serious? You really set up a date for me with Fidelia?"

    "Hmph. You mope around the house all day-what else was I supposed to do? Someone has to take action," Cami said with a proud little toss of her head.

    The truth was, she''d met Fidelia herself and genuinely liked the girl, which was why she''d gone out of her way to y matchmaker. Otherwise, she wouldn''t have bothered.

    "Mom, I love you!" Jacques rushed over and showered Cami with noisy kisses, leaving her cheeks covered in slobber.

    Cami, well aware of her son''s Western upbringing,ughed but finally pushed him away when his affection got a little out of hand.

    "Alright, that''s enough. Save all that for your future wife," she teased, straightening her sleeves.

    "Mom, is Fidelia old enough to get married? Can we actually tie the knot?" Jacques asked, half-joking, half-hopeful.

    Cami chuckled. "You like her that much? You''re already thinking about marriage?"

    Jacques nodded earnestly. "I mean it, Mom. I really like her. She''s the only one for me. I wouldn''t have a single regret if I married her right now."

    Cami smiled at his sincerity. "Well then, make sure you put your best foot forward when you visit their home tomorrow, alright?"

    "Roger that!" Jacques dered, giving her a mock Boy Scout salute.

    After a while, Jacques came flying down the stairs again, breathless. "Mom, I need to go out for a bit.¡±

    "Where are you going?" Cami asked, her suspicious tone making it clear she was worried he might try to escape.

    "I''lle with you," she said quickly, grabbing her purse.

    Jacques grinned. ¡°Great! You''ve always had a better eye for these things than I have. I need something more mature-none of my clothes feel right for this. You pick something for me, Mom."

    It was obvious: Jacques was genuinely smitten.

    Arranged marriages rarely turned out to be happy, but if Jacques and Fidelia truly cared for each other and could support one another, who was to say it wouldn''t be a good match?

    Cami''s heart lightened. "Alright, let''s find you the perfect outfit."

    "Hurry up, Mom!" Jacques bounced impatiently at the door.

    "Okay, okay, stop rushing. I''ve got it," Cami said, rolling her eyes with a smile.

    "Come on, let''s go!"

    When they returned, Jacques paraded around the house in his new suit, rehearsing every possible greeting, tweaking his tone and gestures until they felt just right.

    Both Cami and Jacques''s father, Baade Crawford, watched in amazement; they''d never seen Jacques take anything so seriously before.

    Baade leaned over and murmured to Cami, "Aren''t you the least bit jealous?"

    Camiughed. "Why would I be? Seeing our son grow into a wonderful young man makes me happy."

    "And besides, I really do like Fidelia. She''s well-mannered and lovely. When she joins our family, I think we''ll get along beautifully. I suppose you could say I hand-picked my own daughter-inw."

    Baade smiled. "In that case, let''s hope tomorrow goes well."

    Cami nodded, confidence shining in her eyes. "It will. I know it will."

 Chapter 421

    Early the next morning, Jacques woke up at dawn, took extra care getting dressed, and finally made his way downstairs with great formality.

    Baade and Cami couldn''t help butugh at the sight of him. If someone didn''t know better, they''d think Jacques wasn''t just heading out for a date, but straight to his own wedding.

    "Mom, don''t you think my hands look a little empty?" Jacques asked, ncing down at himself.

    "Empty? Not at all," Cami replied. "Everything you need is right here. I''ve already prepared the gift for you."

    After all, Jacques was her own flesh and blood. Cami knew exactly what he was up to before he even made a move.

    She fixed him with a warning look. "And don''t even think about touching the flowers in my garden!"

    "Mom, that''s not fair," Jacques protested, already making a beeline for the garden. "Your flowers are so beautiful-if you just keep them to yourself, isn''t that a waste? Beautiful things should be shared with the world."

    Cami rolled her eyes and turned to Baade. "Does that even make sense?"

    Baade shrugged. "Instead of nitpicking his choice of words, maybe you should be more worried about your flowers."

    "Oh no, my flowers!" Cami eximed.

    By the time she hurried outside, Jacques had already snipped every single one of her finest blooms-the ones she''d been nurturing for weeks and couldn''t bear to cut herself. Hydrangeas, pink roses, ssic reds, even the delicate apricot roses from her prized terrace collection... none were spared.

    Cami pressed a hand to her forehead. "My darling boy, you really do have an eye for beauty. You''ve managed to pick every single flower that was in its prime. If this still doesn''t win you Fidelia''s heart, then all these poor flowers will have died in vain."

    "Don''t worry, Mom," Jacques said with a confident grin, "there''s no such thing as being too polite. And with my charm, Fidelia is bound to like me."

    "If you were really that confident, you wouldn''t be making such a big fuss," Cami muttered.

    Jacques gave an awkwardugh. Inside, he thought to himself that Fidelia was so exceptional, it was no wonder he was this nervous.

    When the Crawfords arrived, Effie was still in the middle of a chess game with Bancroft.

    Just a little while ago, they''d sent Lyman away, but even then, Bancroft still lost to Effie. He was too stubborn to ept defeat, insisting on a rematch.

    Meanwhile, the others remained rooted in shock, finally realizing that Effie had been hiding her true skills all along. Her chess game was clearly a notch above Bancroft''s.

    For the first time, Bancroft felt the thrill of meeting a true opponent-someone he wished he''d met years ago. He was determined to get in a few more games with Effie while he had the chance.

    Just then, the butler entered, announcing the arrival of the Crawford family.

    The Etheridge family was so absorbed in the chess match that they hadn''t even noticed their guests. The butler had to remind everyone again.

    Suddenly, everyone snapped to attention.

    Jacques had already been scanning the room the moment he walked in. When his gazended on Effie, he strode over, holding out the carefully wrapped bouquet.

    Fidelia happened to be standing nearby. She''d noticed the Crawfords as soon as the butler announced them, and the first thing she saw was Jacques.

    Her heart fluttered wildly, her cheeks flushing pink.

    She watched nervously as Jacques walked toward her, noticing the flowers in his hand, her heart swelling with delight.

    She thought to herself, Jacques really is a gentleman-he even brought her flowers.

    Just as Jacques reached her side, she extended her hand. "Ja¡ª¡±

    Before she could finish, Jacques shed her a smile and said, "No need, I''ve got

    it."

 Chapter 422

    He''d crafted the bouquet himself, every stem arranged with care, all for "Fidelia.¡± He wanted to hand it to her personally, not just pass it along through someone else.

    Fidelia stared, perplexed, her gaze fixed on Jacques.

    What was he doing? Weren''t the flowers meant for her? Then who were they for?

    Just then, Jacques stepped in front of Effie, blocking the sunlight that had been warming her.

    Effie looked up, startled. Wasn''t this the man she''d nearly hit with her car the other day?

    What on earth was he doing here?

    A sh of realization streaked through her mind. She seized it immediately.

    Wait-could this be the man who was supposed to meet Fidelia for a blind date today?

    Before she could fully process it, Jacques had already offered the flowers to Effie. "Fidelia," he said.

    "What?!"

    Everyone froze.

    Since when did Effie be Fidelia?

    Fidelia''s face turned crimson with a mix of shame and anger. She red at Jacques. "Jacques, what is the meaning of this?"

    Her voice trembled, on the verge of tears.

    Jacques looked at Fidelia, baffled. Why was she acting as if he''d broken her heart? Had he ever led her on?

    Meanwhile, Effie had already put the pieces together. Instinctively, she nced over at Lyman.

    But Lyman was no longer where he''d been standing. He was moving toward her. "Hey, sweetheart," he called.

    Effie replied, "Hey, darling."

    With a dull thud, Jacques'' carefully wrapped bouquet slipped from his hands and hit the ground. He gaped at Lyman and Effie, jaw ck in utter disbelief.

    "You''re married? Then why did you agree to a blind date with me?!" Jacques finally spluttered, his voice brimming with outrage.

    Cami and Baade exchanged nces, realization dawning-they saw Jacques had made a terrible mistake.

    "1

    e hurried to his

    side,

    low and urgent, "your Miss Fidelia

    Sis her sister-inw Ethene.

    This

    Effie."

    "What?!"

    Jacques swayed on his feet, as if all the strength had drained from his body. He nearly copsed.

    He''d gotten it all wrong.

    But then, who had he been thinking about all this time? Night after night, the

    Fidelia he''d been dreaming of who was she?

    "Oh, Fidelia, are you crying?" Charis

    piped up, feigning concern but

    clearly savoring the scene. Just

    moments ago, the Etheridge family had looked so proud; now, they were mortified.

    Marcia and Fowler stood there, heads bowed so low it seemed they might burrow into the floor at any moment.

    Fidelia had tried to cry quietly, but Charis''s remark made everyone turn her way. With nowhere to hide, she covered her face and fled the room.

    Meanwhile, the truth finally dawned on Jacques. The girl he''d just passed-the one who''d looked so stunned-she was the real Fidelia.

    No wonder she''d been so shocked to see him with flowers.

    If only he''d known earlier that Fidelia was her, he''d never have agreed to this

    date. He didn''t even know this woman!

    He stammered, "Mom, I messed up. I¡ª"

    But Cami had had enough chaos for one day. "Jacques, not another word!" she barked.

    Jacques felt wronged-he''d triple-checked, hadn''t he? How was he supposed to know he''d still get it wrong?

    But what he didn''t know was that at that very moment, Marcia and Fowler were both fantasizing about wringing his neck.

 Chapter 423

    Charis couldn''t hold back herughter. She turned to Healy and said, "Honestly, I didn''t expect the third branch of the family to try so hard to impress everyone, only to end up making aplete mess of things. What a disaster-how

    embarrassing!"

    Healy wanted tough as well, but managed to restrain himself. Putting on a serious face, he said, "Alright, let''s not make a bigger deal out of it. If word gets out, it''s not just them-it''s the whole Etheridge family that ends up looking foolish."

    Charis suddenly realized he was right. Her expression darkened as she clenched her fists and muttered through gritted teeth, "That wretched branch-look at the trouble they''ve brought us!"

    After offering countless apologies, the Crawford family finally left, looking thoroughly humiliated.

    "Dad, I think we''ve done all we can here. Maybe it''s time for us to go, too," Charis suggested, giving Healy a meaningful nce.

    Healy caught her cue immediately and turned to Bancroft. "Dad, if there''s nothing else, we''d like to take our leave."

    He expected that after this polite farewell, they could simply slip away. But Bancroft''s sharp voice cut through the room. "No one''s leaving today!"

    "Dad?" Healy looked at him in confusion.

    Bancroft simply scoffed, saying nothing more. Then he turned to Fowler. "Go find Fidelia and bring her back."

    "Yes, sir," Fowler replied.

    He could feel the difference in Bancroft''s attitude toward himpared to the others, and he quietly breathed a sigh of relief.

    Fowler found Fidelia outside in the garden.

    Marcia was trying her best tofort her, but Fidelia was sobbing uncontrobly ¡ªher face streaked with tears, her eyes swollen from crying.

    Seeing his daughter like this, Fowler''s heart twisted painfully. It felt as if the sky itself had copsed.

    Fidelia was his precious girl, the apple of his eye. He and Marcia had always treated her like a princess, afraid she''d get hurt, afraid she''d suffer even the slightest grievance. How could she possibly endure a humiliation like this?

    Right then, all Fowler could think about was tearing Jacques-the reckless fool- limb from limb.

    "Sweetheart,e inside. Your grandfather wants you back," Fowler said gently to Fidelia.

    Fidelia wiped her cheeks, sniffled, and choked out, "I can''t. I''m too ashamed to face anyone."

    Fowler knelt beside her. "This is not your fault, not in the least. You have nothing to be upset about. If anyone''s to me, it''s that brat from the Crawford family."

    Fidelia''s jaw trembled with fury. "And Effie! Effie''s the one who seduced Jacques. If she hadn''t, he never would have mistaken me for her, and none of this would''ve happened!"

    Her eyes shed with resentment as she spoke.

    Fowler nced at Marcia, who shook her head helplessly. She''d tried reasoning with Fidelia, but

    nothing seemed to work. Earlier

    while sobbing, Fidelia had been furiously texting someone-venting her anger at Effie with every

    message she sent.

    Marcia didn''t care much for Effie herself, but even she could see that someone on the other end was only making things worse, fanning the mes instead of calming Fidelia down.

    Everyone in the family knew where the patriarch stood regarding Effie. They couldn''t change his mind; all they could do was cooperate on the surface and keep up appearances.

    That had always been Fowler and Marcia''s approach-polite on the outside, whatever they needed to do on the inside. The old man never. interfered as long as they didn'' cause a scene. After Fidelia was punishedst time, the couple was even more convinced not to challenge the main branch openly.

    Fowler turned to his daughter. "Effie doesn''t seem like that kind of person. You can''t use her without proof. If your grandfather or Lyman hears you talking like this, do you want to end up kneeling in the foyer again?"

 Chapter 424

    Fidelia shuddered, the memory making her instinctively shake her head and bite her lip. "No! I don''t want to!"

    Thest time she''d been punished and made to kneel, she''d ended up with a fever, rambling nonsense all night, her back aching so badly she thought she might just die. Now that she''d finally recovered, she had no desire to go through that ordeal again.

    "Exactly!" Fowler nodded, his tone firm. Then he added, "Even if you really hate Effie and want to do something to her, you can''t make it obvious, understand?"

    "Dad... I thought you..."

    "Thought what? That I''m so magnanimous I''d just let someone bully my own daughter?" Fowler let out a lowugh, his expression turning a little sinister. "Now''s not the time. We''ll deal with thister."

    "Okay, Dad, I understand." Fidelia, tears and snot streaming down her face, immediately tried to throw herself into Fowler''s arms forfort.

    But Fowler wrinkled his nose and pushed her away in disgust. "Come on now, that''s filthy."

    Marcia had been married to Fowler for years; she knew exactly what was going through his mind.

    She said gently to Fidelia, "Sweetheart, wipe your face first-get those tears and that nose cleaned up.''

    39

    But before Fidelia could move, Fowler interjected, "No, don''t wipe anything. You''re going to walk in there just like this. That way, your grandfather will see you and feel sorry for you, understand?"

    His words snapped everyone to attention. Marcia nodded quickly. "Right, don''t wipe them away. In fact, you should keep thinking about sad things all the way back-keep those tears flowing. Let everyone see just how much you''ve suffered."

    Fidelia nodded solemnly, determined to follow the n.

    Soon, the whole family returned to the main hall.

    Fowler and Marcia''s eyes were red-rimmed, looking appropriately grief-stricken. Fidelia was in an even worse state-sobbing, sniffling, even letting a bubble of snot escape from her nose. She looked absolutely pitiful, with not a shred of dignity left.

    Bancroft, the patriarch, let out a cold huff. He red at them and said, "What''s going on here? Anyone passing by would think someone in this house has died. Are you cursing me already?"

    His words jolted them all to their senses. Fowler, Marcia, and Fidelia scrambled to wipe their faces and stop the waterworks.

    Bancroft waved them off, his tone sharp. "Go clean up in the bathroom before you embarrass yourselves any further."

    No sooner had he spoken than the three of them rushed off topose themselves.

    When they returned, they finally looked presentable.

    Only then did Bancroft address them sternly, "So what do you propose we do about this? It might have been a misunderstanding, but what that Crawford boy did not only insufted Ethan''s branch of the family but also cast shame on the entire Etheridge family. This is an utter disgrace!"

    Charis muttered under her breath, "What''s it got to do with us?"

    Bancroft mmed his hand on the table, making the tea set rattle with a loud ng. Everyone jumped at the sound.

    Charis felt her heart leap into her throat, especially when she caught the sharp, knife-like nce Bancroft shot her way.

    Bancroft''s voice was icy. "Some

    people around here had better not get too full of themselves. Don''t forget, the Etheridge family is one unit-our honor and shame are shared. We''ve never had a tradition of splitting up and going our own ways. If any of you are thinking about starting your own branch, don''t bother telling me-just leave. As far as I''m concerned, I never had a son by that name."

    His words sobered the room instantly.

    This was precisely why no one dared fight for power openly-they were all bound by the Etheridge family''s

    rules. The old man might im et?

    have stepped back from the

    business, but everyone knew he was stiff the backbone of the family. Whatever he said, they listened.

 Chapter 425

    Seeing that everyone had finally calmed down, Bancroft turned to Lyman. "Lyman, how do you think we should handle this?"

    Lyman replied, "What''s done is done. No matter how angry we are, if we go all out retaliate, we''ll only end up hurting ourselves. In the end, the only ones who benefit will be outsiders, and nothing good wille of it."

    Bancroft nodded approvingly. "You''re always the level-headed one."

    Fowler couldn''t help but grumble inwardly-of course it''s easy for you to keep your cool when none of this really affects you.

    But then again, he realized he was being selfish-he''d nearly forgotten Effie was caught up in this too, even though she''d just happened to be in the wrong ce at the wrong time.

    Bancroft continued, "So, Lyman, do you have a n?"

    Lyman said, "Actually, the Chamber of Commerce just announced they''re releasing a prime piece ofnd. The Etheridge Group wants to bid on it, and the Crawford family is our biggest rival. Before, I knew I''d have to put in some extra ''effort'' because the Crawfords have significant influence with the Chamber. But now, the situation''s changed, hasn''t it?"

    Fidelia''s heart sank. "So you''re nning to step over me to get ahead?" she thought bitterly. Was this just because she wasn''t family by blood-did that give Lyman the right to use her like this, to ignore her feelings?

    Lyman nced at Fidelia with cool indifference. "Don''t put it like that. I''m just making use of the situation. Or would you really rather see our family and the Crawfords tear each other apart over your mess?"

    "I... That''s not what I meant..." Fidelia stammered, looking wounded.

    But deep down, it was exactly what she''d wanted-she just didn''t dare say it aloud. She was so miserable she almost wished the whole world would go down with her.

    Lyman pressed on, "As a member of the Etheridge family, Fidelia, the family''s interestse first. Isn''t that right?"

    Backed into a corner, Fidelia could only nod stiffly. "Yes."

    "Then it''s settled. I''ll take care of it," Lyman said firmly.

    Bancroft nodded. "Good. That''s decided, then."

    "You''re all free to go now."

    He paused, then turned to Effie. "Effie, stay behind. Keep your grandfatherpany with a game of chess."

    Effie blinked in surprise. She hadn''t expected Bancroft''s love of chess to run this deep-even after all this time it was still on his mind. Of course, Grandpa. I''ll y with you."

    But Bancroft had another idea. "Actually, Effie, why don''t you y a round with

    Lyman? I''d like to see which of youes out on top."

    He nced at Lyman. "And you''re not allowed to go easy on her."

    Lyman couldn''t help butugh. "Grandpa, you''ve got it backwards. You should be telling Effie not to go easy on me. She''s already beaten you who''s to say she can''t beat me too?"

    Bancroft clicked his tongue in mock annoyance.

    "Why are you all still here?" Bancroft called out to the others, who had stopped in their tracks.

    Healy, for one, had been about to leave, but when he heard Lyman and Effie were about to y chess, he found himself lingering in the doorway-just like everyone else.

    They all wanted to see who was better: Effie, who''d managed to defeat Bancroft multiple times, or Lyman, whose skills were still a mystery.

    This should be interesting, Effie thought, Bancroft can''t beat me, so now he''s bringing in Lyman. Looks like Lyman''s not just good at business-he''s a strong chess yer foo.

 Chapter 426

    Lyman shook his head. "No, thanks. Effie''s been ying for ages¡ªshe must be exhausted."

    "Chess takes a lot out of you," he added.

    Bancroft leaned forward, a yful glint in his eye. "Just one game. What do you say, Effie?"

    He turned his gaze to Effie, clearly hoping she''d be easier to sway than Lyman. Everyone knew Lyman was hard to budge, but Effie... she might just go along with it.

    Lyman hesitated. ¡°Grandpa..."

    Of course, Bancroft wasn''t fooled by Lyman''s reluctance, but he yed along, acting oblivious.

    While everyone waited for Lyman and Effie to start their match, Lyman suddenly reached out and pulled Effie up from the couch. "Let''s get out of here," he whispered.

    Effie shot a nervous nce in Bancroft''s direction, but Lyman shifted, blocking her line of sight. "I''m wiped out. I need to unwind for a bit."

    "Huh?" Effie blinked. Unwind how, exactly?

    Lyman didn''t borate-he just took her hand and led her away.

    Bancroft, far from annoyed, beamed with delight as he watched them go.

    The others looked at each other, speechless.

    Was Bancroft... actually happy? Had he lost his mind?

    Did Lyman just pull a fast one on them, making everyone wait for nothing?

    Or... was he just afraid of losing?

    The more they considered it, the more convinced they became.

    As Lyman and Effie walked down the hallway, Lyman suddenly felt a tickle in his nose and sneezed.

    He rubbed his nose. "That''s odd. Someone must be thinking about me."

    Effieughed. ¡°Maybe someone really is. Who knows?"

    Just then, a small, wobbly figure toddled toward them, chanting softly, "Daddy..."

    The little girl had tousled, golden curls and was so thin she almost looked fragile. But her eyes were enormous, framed by long, curlingshes, and her features were delicate and striking.

    Lyman stared, a flicker of confusion in his eyes. Where had he seen this little one before?

    Before he could ce her, the girl reached his side and wrapped her skinny arms around his legs. "Daddy..."

    Lyman''s smile vanished. He froze, ncing helplessly at Effie.

    "I can exin, I-" Effie started, but the child''s lip wobbled, and she suddenly burst into tears, wailing as if her heart might break. She seemed crushed that Lyman hadn''t picked her up.

    Lyman winced, unsure whether to lift the little girl or keep his distance.

    Effie crouched down and gently wiped away the girl''s tears. "There, sweetheart,

    don''t cry."

    teane The little girl burrowed

    into

    s vulnerable as a porcin about to shatter.

    her big eyes ssy with t

    Effie''s heart ached. "Sweetie, did you get separated from your mom and dad? Let''s go find them, okay?"

    "Andie!" A woman''s anxious voice rang out, and momentster, a stylish woman with wless makeup hurried toward them.

    Spotting Lyman, she broke into a surprised smile. ¡°Lyman! What are you doing here?"

    Recognition dawned on Lyman. No wonder the little girl looked so familiar-she was Grace McCloud and y''s daughter, Andie.

    "Mommy..." Andie called out from the safety of Effie''s arms.

    Effie studied Grace''s face, feeling an odd sense of d¨¦j¨¤ vu¡ªshe was sure she''d seen her somewhere before.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 427

    Grace could feel Effie''s gaze lingering on her, and she frowned in displeasure. "Hello, and you are?"

    Lyman stepped in. "This is my wife, Effie."

    Effie nodded politely. "Nice to meet you."

    Grace gave a slight nod in return, her tone tinged with quiet pride. "Hello, I''m Grace McCloud. My namees from an old poem-''Grace was in all her steps, Heaven in her eye, In every gesture dignity and love..""

    Grace McCloud? Another McCloud... Effie suddenly recalled how Annabel McCloud had once introduced herself with a simrly poetic touch. A memory surfaced: Annabel, at some point, had taken a phone call and shouted angrily, "Grace, are you an idiot?" Effie hadn''t listened closely-she found eavesdropping rude¡ªso she''d only caught the beginning before walking away. But now, it seemed clear: Annabel and Grace must be sisters.

    "Are you Annabel''s sister?" Effie blurted.

    Grace''s expression changed at the mention of Annabel. She nced at Lyman, suddenly realizing that he must''ve already introduced Annabel to Effie.

    "What brings you back? Weren''t you and y living abroad?" Effie asked.

    Grace smiled softly at Lyman, her tone gentle. "I missed home. Missed everyone. Andie wasn''t adjusting well overseas."

    At the sound of his name, Andie suddenly piped up, "Daddy... I want Daddy..."

    A flicker of embarrassment crossed Grace''s eyes. She reached out to Andie, coaxing, "Come here, sweetheart. Let Mommy hold you."

    But instead, Andie snuggled deeper into Effie''s arms, clinging stubbornly and refusing to reach for Grace.

    Effie''s brow furrowed as she

    watched. For a child as young as Andie, it was natural to cling to the people who cared for him

    BUT

    most especially his mother. Why, then, would he rather stay with someone who was practically a stranger?

    Grace''s smile faltered. She stepped closer to Effie, her voice gentle but firm. "Thank you for looking after Andie."

    Without waiting for a response, she reached out, determined to pull Andie away. But Andie whimpered in pain at her grip, bursting into tears. "Daddy, I want Daddy..."

    It was painfully clear: Andie clung to his father even more than his mother.

    As Andie''s cries grew louder, Grace''s patience snapped. She scolded, "Andie, you''re a boy! Stop crying all the time-it''s embarrassing!"

    Effie froze in shock, ncing down at the sobbing child pressed against her shoulder. She''d always assumed Andie was a girl, with those delicate features and long, curling

    ve

    Yet the more Grace berated him, the harder Andie cried, tightening his grip on Effie and refusing to let go.

    "He''s just scared," Effie said quietly. "Give him a minute to calm down."

    Grace shot her an icy look, her brows drawn tight. She was Andie''s mother why should she take orders from Effie? Still, she kept a hand on her son''s back, intent on pulling him away.

    But Andie''s cries only intensified, shrill and desperate, as if he were being dragged away from safety. If anyone had walked in, they''d have thought Grace was hurting him.

    Lyman stepped forward, his tone gentle butmanding. "That''s enough, Grace. Just take a breath."

    It was as if his words cast a spell. Grace''s anger slowly ebbed away, and she finally let go.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 428

    Her eyes were rimmed with red as she flung her arms around Lyman. "But I''m his mother! Why doesn''t he like me, after all these years?"

    Grace had intended to hug Lyman, but he edged away almost imperceptibly, leaving her arms empty. She gave a small, embarrassedugh and let her hands fall, making no further attempt.

    A wave of sourness washed over Grace. Back when they were kids, a hug like this would''ve been nothing. Now, things were different.

    Lyman said, "He''s still so young. You were busy finishing your thesis and juggling internships right after he was born-you just didn''t have time for him. It makes sense that he''s more attached to y."

    Grace nodded, looking miserable.

    "I want to be a good mom, too. I wish he''d depend on me, listen to me. But he just doesn''t feel close to me. His dad''s been away on business for weeks, and he''s been crying nonstop. I didn''t know what else to do, so I took him to see his father. That helped a bit, but as soon as we came back, he started acting up again."

    Lyman offered a gentle smile. "Give it time. These things can''t be rushed."

    Grace nodded. "I guess there''s nothing else I can do."

    "So what brings you here? Are you moving back into the old house?" Lyman asked.

    Grace nodded. "I''m working at Cedarbridge General now, and the house is close to the hospital, so I thought it''d make sense to move back."

    "Will you have help here?" Lyman asked. "I can ask Mom and Dad to send a couple of housekeepers over, at least to get things cleaned up for you."

    Grace nodded again. Lyman had always taken care of her, and by now she was used to it; it never felt odd.

    "Thanks, Lyman," she said.

    He smiled. ¡°No need for thanks¡ªwe''re family."

    Grace nodded, then turned to Effie. "Effie, I''m Lyman''s sister. Not by blood, but we''re very close, so I don''t want you to misunderstand."

    Effie met her eyes. "Misunderstand what, exactly?"

    Grace hesitated. "Well... I mean, about me and Lyman."

    For some reason, even though Annabel and Grace were sisters, Effie always feltpletely different around them. Annabel was bright open, and easy to be around. Grace, though-whether she meant to or not always seemed a little affected, as if she were performing, trying too hard.

    Maybe Grace was just trying to assert her presence, Effie thought.

    Effie smiled and deliberately said, "What''s there to misunderstand? It''s just the usual sibling bond."

    Grace''s smile froze, her exnation dying on her lips.

    "Yeah... I''m d you understand," she managed.

    "Andie, let''s go home."

    But Andie stayed firmly nestled against Effie''s shoulder, refusing to budge.

    Lyman chuckled. "It''s only been a while, but Andie''s changed so much I almost didn''t recognize her."

    Grace grinned. ¡°Sure, kids grow fast, almost a new face every day. But you, as her uncle, not recognizing your own niece? Isn''t that a bit much?"

    She shot him a teasing nce. "Or maybe you got married and just forgot all about us?"

    Lymanughed. ¡°Not quite that dramatic. But it has been a year, hasn''t it? How''s y? When will he be back?"

    Grace turned to him. "I finished my

    degree abroad, so now there''s a good chance I''ll get promoted. The chief said I might be the youngest attending physician at the hospital."

 Chapter 429

    Grace watched Lyman with anticipation, waiting for a word of praise.

    But Lyman just smiled slightly and said, "Not bad."

    The head pat she''d hoped for never came, nor any gentle reassurance that she''d done a great job. Just those two words: not bad.

    A flicker of disappointment crossed Grace''s eyes.

    Just two words.

    He''s changed, she thought bitterly. Ever since he lost his wife, Lyman really has changed.

    "Lyman," she started.

    Lyman cut her off. "Andie looks exhausted. Why don''t you take him to my mom''s ce for a bit? He always loved being there."

    Lindy Etheridge adored Andie. He was such a sweet, well-behaved little boy.

    In Lyman''s mind, Grace couldn''t really manage Andie on her own.

    "Well... okay, I suppose," Grace replied, trying to mask her reluctance.

    "Alright. Let''s drop by my parents'' first," Lyman said, making it clear he wasn''t about to leave Andie in Grace''s care alone.

    Suddenly, Grace seemed to remember something. She nced over at Effie. "Effie, are we intruding on you?"

    Her voice was calm, but there was a sharp edge to her gaze that made Effie ufortable, as if Grace was issuing a challenge.

    Effie smiled back, unruffled. "Of course not. You''re Lyman''s sister, which makes you family. Looking after family is the least I can do."

    Grace felt a lump rise in her throat, so tight she could barely speak.

    Damn Effie. She was doing this on purpose! With just a few words, she''d made it clear who really belonged in Lyman''s inner circle-and who didn''t.

    Grace stood awkwardly on the outside, excluded from whatever bond Lyman and Effie shared.

    It hurt. It was like watching something precious slip right out of her hands.

    But on the surface, Grace kept herposure.

    She forced a bright smile at Effie. "That''s great. I''m d."

    When it was time to get in the car, Effie climbed in first with Andie in her arms, and Lyman slipped in after her. There was no room left in the back. .

    Grace "Effie, mother.

    give

    Andie to me. I''m his

    moked at Effie, her jaw tight. . It doesn''t look right

    to be holding him all the time.

    Effie replied, "I can, but only if Andie wants to."

    Naturally, Andie clung to Effie and wouldn''t let go.

    you

    Grace''s patience wore thin. "Andie''s just a child. What does he know?"

    "Exactly," Effie said calmly. "He''s a child. He doesn''t overthink things he just reacts honestly You''re too anxious, Grace. It scares him. That''s why he''d rather stay with me right now."

    Lyman gave Effie''s hand a gentle squeeze, murmuring softly, "Grace is under a lot of stresstely, so..."

    Effie met Lyman''s eyes and nodded. "I know. I''ll be careful."

    They spoke so quietly that Grace couldn''t catch a word, which only made her feel worse-like a wall had gone up, shutting her out.

    "How would you know unless you let me try?" Grace snapped, yanking open the car door and reaching for Andie.

    Predictably, Andie shrank back, bursting into frightened tears.

    "Grace!" Effie red at her, trying to keep her temper in check. "Can''t you see you''re scaring him?"

    Grace''s eyes darkened, her tone icy. "He''s my son. How could I possibly scare him?"

 Chapter 430

    "Andie,e to Mommy."

    Grace''s voice softened a little, but a trace of anger still lingered in her tone.

    Lyman quickly got out of the car and pulled Grace away from behind.

    Seizing the moment, Grace tried to wrap her arms around Lyman''s waist, but he instinctively stepped back.

    Undeterred, Grace clung to him again.

    Lyman pushed her away, careful not to use too much force. "Grace, calm down."

    Effie held Andie in her arms, quietly watching the tense exchange between Lyman and Grace.

    Grace nced up, her eyes locking on Effie. A sly smirk tugged at her lips, and a flicker of challenge sparked in her gaze.

    She expected to see anger on Effie''s face, but instead, Effie simply smiled back at her, unbothered.

    Grace froze, confusion flickering in her eyes. What was Effie ying at? Did she love Lyman or not? If she did, why wasn''t she reacting at all?

    While Grace was still caught up in her confusion, Lyman took the chance to push her aside.

    "Enough, Grace. Andie''s not doing well right now. Let''s just go home," Lyman said firmly.

    Grace could only mutter, "Fine."

    In the end, Lyman insisted that Grace sit in the backseat with Effie, while he took the passenger seat up front.

    Grace stared at Effie the entire ride, as if she could drill holes right through her.

    Effie met her gaze with a calm, fearless smile,pletely unfazed.

    Grace''s brows knitted tightly. She really couldn''t figure Effie out.

    The drive to Friedman''s ce wasn''t long, but to Grace, it felt like an eternity. The moment the car finally stopped and she could get out, she felt as if a huge weight had been lifted off her shoulders.

    When Grace and Andie walked in, Lindy greeted them with delight. "Why didn''t you let us know you wereing home? We could''ve picked you up!"

    "I wanted to surprise you," Grace replied, shing a sweet smile.

    "Well, now that you''re back, I''ll call your sister and have here for dinner too," Lindy said.

    At the mention of Annabel, the smile vanished from Grace''s face. "Godmother, please don''t. My sister''s still upset with me. Let me talk to her first, then we''ll meet."

    Lindy sighed. "Alright. You know

    your sister worries about you all the time. She''s always looked out for you, like a mother. Talk to her okay? She only wants the best for you."

    Grace nodded obediently. "I know."

    Lindy brightened. "I''ll have someone pick up your favorite roast beef sandwiches. You''ve lost weight."

    Grace grinned, her tone yful. "Yes, please! I''ve missed home-cooked food so much while I was away."

    She rattled off a few more of her favorite dishes.

    Suddenly, something urred to her. She nced over at Effie, her eyes full of challenge, as if to say, See? Godmother cares about me most.

    Effie just smiled again, refusing to rise to the bait.

    Grace''s annoyance only deepened. What''s with this Effie, anyway? No matter

    what she does, Effie barely reacts¡ªit''s like punching a pillow.

    Effie had seen these little games before; Suzan and Vera used to act just like this. Back then, Effie would''ve tried topete, always wanting to win, but in the end, she only exhausted and hurt herself.

    Now, Effie had learned her lesson. She wasn''t going to make herself miserable for

    people like that anymore.

    Just then, Lindy turned to look at Effie.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 431

    Lindy Etheridge turned to Effie Bagnold and said, "Effie, you don''t need to remind me. I remember you love seafood, so I''ve already asked someone to pick up the freshest catch for you."

    Effie smiled warmly at her. "Thanks, Mom."

    That single word-Mom-struck Grace McCloud like a heavy blow,nding squarely in her chest.

    On the surface, Grace''s expression remained calm, but inside, she was in turmoil. She hadn''t realized Effie and Lindy had grown so close-closer than she ever expected. Everything was happening too fast, faster than she could possibly keep up.

    "Grace."

    Lindy called her name, pulling her abruptly from her thoughts. Grace blinked and looked at Lindy. "Yes, godmother?"

    Lindy asked, "Didn''t ye back with you this time?"

    At the mention of y, Grace''s face tightened just a bit. "No, he couldn''t. He''s still tied up with work, so he couldn''t get away so soon."

    Lindy nodded sympathetically. "You must be exhausted, always going back and forth on your own. It''s not right."

    Then she nced over at her husband. "Lyman, doesn''t your firm have any projects y could work on? If he came back, Grace''s family could finally be together again."

    As Lindy spoke of the family being reunited, she cast another look in Grace''s direction.

    Grace forced a smile, trying to seem at ease.

    Just then, Effie felt something damp beneath her hand. She turned to see Andie, whose pants were soaked-he''d wet himself.

    Automatically, Effie nced at Grace, curious to see how she''d handle the situation.

    Catching Effie''s gaze, Grace followed it to Andie and saw the wet patch on his trousers. Her face changed in an instant.

    She rushed over and barked, "Andie! What on earth is wrong with you? You''re too old for this-why didn''t you say something if you needed to go?"

    Her voice was harsh and her face twisted in anger-she looked almost unhinged. She stopped herself before saying anything worse, but Andie was already terrified. He burst into tears, sobbing loudly.

    The room fell silent, everyone stunned by the outburst.

    Grace reached for Andie, trying to help him change his pants.

    But Andie clung to Lindy, clutching her blouse so tightly he nearly stretched it out

    of shape. He was willing to let anyonefort him-anyone except Grace.

    Effie couldn''t help but wonder. There was definitely something wrong with that rtionship.

    "Grace, calm down. You''re scaring him," Lindy said gently.

    But Grace didn''t seem to hear her, still intent on pulling Andie away.

    Lindy was out of options; if this tug-of-war kept up, she''d be suffocated herself. Helplessly, she looked to her husband. "Lyman, a little help, please!"

    Hearing his name, Grace''s eyes snapped into focus for a split second, but the moment passed just as quickly.

    Lyman hesitated. He hated seeing his mother in such distress, but he wasn''t sure how to intervene. In the past, he would have pulled Grace away without a second thought. But things were different now-he was married, and he had someone he loved. He didn''t want Effie to

    misunderstand or feel

    ufortable.

    Effie seemed to guess what he was thinking. She said quietly, "Let me handle it."

    Lyman nced at her, uneasy-not because he doubted Effie could deal with Grace, but because he worried about Grace''s unpredictable anger. He didn''t want Effie to get hurt.

 Chapter 432

    Seeing Lindy grow more and more distressed, Effie turned to Lyman. "Don''t worry, I''ll be fine," she assured him.

    Lyman nodded and stepped aside. Still, he cautioned her quietly, "Be careful."

    "I will."

    Effie called out to Andie, and while Grace was distracted, she swiftly grabbed Grace by the neck and yanked her back.

    Grace''s face contorted as she struggled for air; in seconds, the difort overwhelmed her and she released her grip.

    Effie dragged Grace aside before letting go. Gasping for breath, Grace rubbed her sore neck, ring at Effie in disbelief.

    "What are you doing, Effie?" Grace choked out, every word strained and halting.

    Effie met her gaze, her voice even. "You need to calm down."

    Turning to Andie, she gently reassured him, "It''s alright now, Andie."

    Andie finally stopped trembling. Effie gathered him up in her arms and took him to get cleaned up.

    Effie didn''t notice the look on Grace''s face as she left.

    When she reappeared with Andie, now dressed in fresh clothes, amotion erupted from the kitchen-a loud tter, sharp and metallic.

    Effie instinctively moved to investigate, Andie still in her arms, but a housekeeper quickly blocked her path.

    "Ma''am, it''s dangerous in there. Please, don''t bring the child inside."

    Just then, the unmistakable sound of a knife ttering to the floor rang out.

    Momentster, Lyman burst from the kitchen carrying Grace with one arm. His other hand was mped tightly over Grace''s wrist, blood streaming down between his fingers, leaving a shocking crimson trait on the floor-red as a rose in snow.

    Effie immediately covered Andie''s eyes.

    But it was toote. Andie had seen everything. He let out a terrified wail and began to sob uncontrobly.

    Drawn by themotion, Lindy, pale as a sheet, hurried from the kitchen. She rushed to Effie''s side. "Are you both alright?" she asked anxiously.

    Effie shook her head. "We''re fine. I''ll take Andie to the bedroom and try to calm him down."

    Lindy nodded. "Thank you, Effie. I''ll call the therapist right away. Andie needs someone to help him process this."

    "Alright."

    Andie nestled against Effie''s shoulder, crying softly and refusing to let anyone else near him when the therapist arrived. He clung to Effie and wouldn''t speak to anyone else.

    The therapist patiently taught Effie

    ways to talk to Andie, to soothe and

    reassure him. Gradually, Andie''s

    ve

    sobbing slowed. Eventually, exhausted, he drifted off to sleep in Effie''s arms.

    Effie looked down at his tear-stained cheeks and dampshes, her heart aching.

    What could such a young child have gone through to be so afraid, to recoil from his own mother''s touch?

    They always say a mother''s love is unconditional, but Effie couldn''t help but feel that, in Grace''s case, she seemed to love herself far more than she ever loved her

    son.

    Quietly, Effie slipped out of the room and closed the door behind her. Standing

    just outside were Annabel McCloud and Lindy, both watching anxiously.

    "How is Andie?" Annabel asked, her worry etched deep in her features.

    "He''s asleep now," Effie replied softly.

    Annabel let out a long sigh. "You''ve done so much for us. I never imagined things would turn out like this. If I''d known that lunatic Grace woulde back, I would have made sure she never set foot in this house again."

 Chapter 433

    Effie looked at Annabel and said quietly, "Annabel, you need to calm down. Grace already seems... a bit unstable, and if you keep pushing her, I''m afraid..."

    She had wanted to say Grace was just in crazy, but seeing how worked up Annabel was, Effie decided not to add fuel to the fire.

    Annabel nced at her and said, "So you''re still holding back."

    After a pause, she continued, "Grace took advantage of y being distracted and snuck off with the kid. y''s losing his mind overseas. He even tried calling me, but I missed it."

    Her gaze flickered for a moment, but Annabel didn''t bother exining why she hadn''t picked up y''s call. She doubted anyone cared.

    Effie frowned. "But isn''t she the boy''s mother? Why do you say ''snuck off''?"

    Annabel sighed. "Because Andie''s never really bonded with her. He''s always preferred his dad."

    Truthfully, Effie had already suspected as much.

    When she and Lyman had run into Andie on the street, he''d been alone, crying for his "daddy."

    And he''d been wearing clothes that looked more suited for a little girl-soft pastel colors, frills and all.

    At first, Effie had just assumed Andie was a girl, so the outfit made sense. He looked cute, after all.

    But once she learned Andie was a boy, the whole thing struck her as odd. She couldn''t shake the feeling that Grace had dressed him that way on purpose.

    Why would Grace do that? Effie had no idea.

    And now, hearing that Grace had taken the boy home without y knowing... Well, it was clear something wasn''t right.

    Just like Annabel said she really was acting like a lunatic.

    "One of these days, she''s going to drive me insane too. I''ll end up just like her," Annabel said, her voice drained of energy.

    Lindy, concerned, gave Annabel''s shoulder a gentle squeeze. "Don''t think like that," she said softly.

    Annabel took a deep breath, forcing herself to steady her nerves. "I know. I do. I''m going to the hospital now to see her."

    Effie hesitated, then added, "I''ll go with you."

    No one knew what state Grace was in, and Lyman had rushed her to the hospital Effie fradn''t heard anything. since, and she couldn''t help but worry something had happened to him too.

    It took them a while to get there. When they arrived, Grace was still in the emergency room.

    It turned out she''d had a sudden seizure, and on top of that, the wounds from her suicide attempt were deep-her condition was critical.

    Effie''s heart twisted when she saw Lyman, covered in blood, slumped in

    exhaustion on a bench in the hallway.

    Footsteps echoed down the corridor. Lyman looked up instinctively and saw Effie

    and Annabel approaching.

    Annabel hurried over. "What happened?"

    Lyman answered, "She had a seizure, which made things a lot worse. The doctors are having a tough time with her."

    Annabel''s brow furrowed. "She''s

    only been back a day and

    met

    everything''s already upside down. Did you know she snuck Andle back

    here? y''s beside himself

    Lyman nodded. "Yeah, y called me. I filled him in-he''s buying a flight back right now."

    Annabel n?dded. ¡°y''s been a

    close friend since we were kids. When he married my sister, I was happy, but it''splicated. I''ve always known Grace wasn''t exactly... Stable. And now

 Chapter 434

    Annabel scratched her head, undoing all the work she''d put into making her hair neat. With a sigh, she said, "I honestly don''t even know what to say anymore."

    Her own love life was a mess, and Grace seemed to lose her mind at the drop of a hat.

    Thank goodness Grace had married such a patient husband, someone willing to put up with her temper. Anyone else probably would''ve divorced her by now. Annabel felt a pang of guilt whenever she thought about facing y. She really didn''t know how to look him in the eye.

    Just then, the light above the operating room finally flicked off. Grace was wheeled out, still under the lingering effects of anesthesia, lying peacefully on the hospital bed.

    Annabel looked at her, so still and quiet, and murmured, "This is the only time she''s actually adorable."

    Turning to Lyman and Effie, Annabel said, "Thank you both for waiting here so long. Really, you should head home and get some rest."

    Lyman frowned slightly and replied, "Don''t say that, Annabel. We''re family."

    Annabel managed a tired smile. "Exactly¡ªand people, even family, aren''t made of steel. Everyone gets worn out. Go get some sleep, okay?"

    She thought to herself that if she were in their shoes, she would''ve lost it by now.

    "At the very least, you should change your clothes before you go. Otherwise, someone''s going to think you''ve justmitted murder."

    Lyman nced down and gave a ruefulugh. Sure enough, there were little spatters of blood on his shirt, blooming like tiny, rming flowers. No wonder people had been staring as they passed.

    He said, "Alright, I''ll head out now. If you need anything, just call me."

    "Okay," Annabel replied with a weary nod.

    Lyman took Effie''s hand and led her away.

    As they walked, Lyman noticed her hand was a little cold. He turned to her, concern in his eyes. "Your hand''s freezing. Are you feeling alright? Want me to take you to doctor?

    Effie shook her head. "No, it''s fine. It always happens when the weather turns chilly. Women''s body temperatures run a little lower than men''s-didn''t you know?"

    Lyman shook his head, a smile tugging at his lips. "Didn''t know that before, but now that my lovely wife exined it, I''ll make sure to remember."

    Effie shot him a look andughed. "Such a smooth talker."

    Finally, they slid into the car. As it pulled away from the hospital, Effie felt a wave of relief wash over her.

    Lyman nced at her. "You''re worried about Grace, aren''t you?¡±

    "She was getting better," Lyman said softly. "I honestly don''t know what made her rpse this time."

    Effie squeezed his hand in silent support, but she didn''t say much more; she didn''t know the details of Grace''s struggles-everything she''d heard was secondhand. It wasn''t her ce to judge. Maybe someday, when she understood Grace better, she''d have more to say.

    Back in the hospital room, Grace was starting toe around as the anesthesia wore off.

    "Lyman!" she called, eyes fluttering open.

    But when she looked around, it was only Annabel standing there no sign of Lyman.

    Grace''s expression darkened, a flicker of disappointment in her eyes. She turned

    her head away, unwilling to meet Annabel''s gaze.

    But Annabel wasn''t about to let her

    off that easily. She reached out, gently but firmly turning Grace''s head back to face her. Locking eyes

    with her Annabel said coldly "Now

    that you see it''s me, you can drop the act, can''t you?"

 Chapter 435

    Grace''s eyes flickered. She avoided Annabel''s intense gaze, grit her teeth, and said, "I don''t know what you''re talking about!"

    Annabel stared at her without blinking, a cold sneer curling her lips. "Fine. If you won''t admit it, that''s your choice. I''ll just pretend you''re sick again and send you back to the clinic. And don''t even dream of seeing him again."

    Grace''s eyes widened in panic. She grabbed Annabel''s wrist, her voice trembling with anger. "No! You can''t do that! I''m married now-I have a husband!"

    Annabel narrowed her eyes and replied, ¡°But I have your medical records. The pills you''re taking right now-I wonder, Grace, who do you think people are going to believe? You, or me?"

    "Annabel!" Grace shrieked, her voice raw. "I''m your sister! Why are you doing this? Do you really need to push me over the edge?"

    Annabel regarded her coolly, her tone devoid of warmth. "Grace, you know perfectly well why you married y. And you know even better than anyone why Andie got sick. If it hadn''t been for your greed, none of us would be in this mess. And Fenton and I would still be together."

    Grace could ept me for many things, but Annabel and Fenton''s divorce¡ª she would never admit to that. That had absolutely nothing to do with her.

    "Annabel, you''re just too controlling! You always have to be right, you never let anyone breathe. That''s why everyone leaves you including me! So go ahead- spend the rest of your life alone. You brought this on yourself!"

    The words had barely left her mouth when Annabel pped her across the face.

    Grace''s head snapped to the side; her cheek burned like fire. Annabel never did know how to hold back.

    But instead of crying, Grace started tough, tears shimmering in her wild, desperate eyes.

    "Ha... ha ha..."

    Annabel''s gaze hardened. "What''s so funny?"

    Grace wiped her eyes, her voice trembling with a strange joy. "Annabel, you''re always the same. The minute you run out of arguments, you start throwing punches. Ha... always."

    Effie and Lyman sat in the car, Lyman''s hand mped tightly around Effie''s.

    ¡°It''s alright. I''m here," Effie reassured him gently.

    Anyone else, after witnessing something so disturbing, wouldn''t have calmed down so quickly.

    Lyman''s voice was low. "Grace is friend''s

    e. She just got back to

    my

    the country, and now something''s happened to her in my house. I feel like I failed him."

    Effie shook her head. "This wasn''t your fault."

    Lyman forced a thin smile, but it didn''t reach his eyes.

    "Stop the car," Effie said suddenly to the driver.

    She looked at Lyman. "Want to get out and take a walk?"

    Lyman gestured to his disheveled state. "Looking like this?"

    Effie pointed toward a disy stand up ahead. "Look, there''s some kind of event going on over there."

    "Hm?"

    Only then did Lyman notice the Halloween festival happening

    nearby crowds of people in all sorts of spooky costumes, the whole ce bubbling with mischief and eerte fun.

    Effie nodded toward a booth not far away. "They''re renting costumes over there. Let''s go pick something out."

    "Alright," Lyman agreed.

    He wasn''t usually interested in this kind of thing, but Effie seemed eager, so he was happy to go along.

    "What would suit you?" Effie mused aloud, scanning Lyman from head to toe

    costume racks.

    ss stummaging through the

    "Oh! I found something you should try this."

    Lyman didn''t know much about costumes, so he simply did whatever Effie suggested.

    "Turn around, let me see."

 Chapter 436

    Effie pointed toward a nearby mirror, signaling for Lyman to take a look at himself.

    He was dressed in crisp dress pants and a white shirt, though a few small bloodstains dotted the fabric. On his head sat a mask-hat with a huge chainsaw and jagged fangs, and in each hand he held a prop chainsaw.

    The moment Lyman stepped out of the costume shop, every eye turned to him.

    His hands were long and elegant, with Effie having rolled up part of his sleeves for him. His arms were slender yet defined, his fingers pale and graceful, the knuckles pronounced.

    He was tall, and the fitted waist of his dress pants made his legs seem even longer.

    He''d barely set foot in the amusement park before he became the center of attention-he looked as if he''d just stepped out of aic book.

    A small crowd trailed behind him.

    Effie followed, phone in hand, filming Lyman as they walked.

    He was a little stiff, not fully letting himself enjoy the moment. But that restraint only made him look even more like the Chainsaw Man character he was dressed

    as.

    Effie watched him, thinking to herself how lucky she was that this man was already hers. If so many people were eyeing him, and she had to fight for him, she wasn''t so sure she''d win.

    She walked over and patted Lyman''s hand.

    He turned, looking at her.

    The chainsaw mask turned with him, and even though she''d already seen it before, the effect still startled her for a split second.

    Effie took a deep breath to steady herself.

    Then she grinned at him and said, ¡°Hey, handsome, you look amazing. Will you be my boyfriend?"

    Lyman gazed at her without blinking, saying nothing.

    Effie froze.

    Did he regret it? Was he not interested in her anymore? Suddenly, she felt foolish for blurting out such a question.

    But then Lyman''s lips curled into a faint smile. "No."

    Effie''s heart skipped-had he really changed his mind?

    "I don''t want to be your boyfriend. I want to be your husband," Lyman said quietly.

    Effie was stunned, and for a moment her heart thudded so fast she thought it might leap right out of her chest.

    She managed to say, almost breathlessly, "Okay."

    Lyman set down one of his prop chainsaws and took her hand. "Come on."

    Effie nodded quickly, her voice soft but determined. "I''m with you for life. Don''t you dare let go."

    "I won''t."

    He nced at her, lips quirking up, and murmured, "Mischief."

    Effie winked back at him.

    The bystanders who''d witnessed the scene were left speechless.

    "I didn''t know you could pull something like that! If I''d known, would''ve asked first!" one girl

    "Oh, please. Have you seen what that girl looks like? You think you could just waltz up and ask? She''s gorgeous. Honestly, I''m more worried she''s the one getting tricked. The guy''s just got a good body-he''s wearing a mask, for crying out loud!"

    "Hey, you don''t think they''re both park actors, do you?"

    "Oh,e on! Does that mean we''ve all been fooled?"

    Effie and Lyman were already far away, but the gossip about them lingered in the

    air.

    Isabel was one of the amusement park''s actors. She didn''t have any other work lined up at the moment-bills for her designer shopping habits still needed paying, after all.

    So she was here, dressed up as an NPC, heavy makeup disguising her so no one recognized her. She didn''t feel embarrassed about it.

    She was a little curious, though.

    She''d been working her shift with the

    rest of the park actors, but hadn''t

    caught a glimpse of this so-called heartthrob everyone was talking about.

    "Where''s this handsome guy, anyway?" Isabel muttered to herself.

 Chapter 437

    Isabel suddenly noticed amotion not far away. She nced over and caught sight of the towering Chainsaw Man.

    The moment she saw him, her heart skipped a beat.

    Without thinking, Isabel started to follow.

    She had always believed she''d never fall for anyone else again. Yet here she was, heart fluttering over someone new.

    Besides Lyman, she was actually falling for another man-someone whose face she couldn''t even see.

    As Isabel was thinking this, she suddenly spotted Effie in the crowd.

    Her brow furrowed, and she let out a bitter, self-deprecating smile.

    Of course.

    She''d thought she was drawn to another man, but in truth, it had always been the same one all along.

    Watching Effie standing right next to Lyman, Isabel''s eyes shed with an idea.

    She turned and slipped away in the opposite direction.

    Momentster, a wave of tourists began surging toward Effie.

    Before long, Effie waspletely surrounded, a living wall of people cutting her off from Lyman.

    Lyman tried to push his way toward Effie, but the crowd was packed tight, an imprable barrier. No matter how hard he tried, he couldn''t break through.

    "Effie!" Lyman shouted at the top of his lungs.

    But Effie couldn''t hear him; there were simply too many people around her. Hands kept reaching out, everyone wanting something from her.

    It was suffocating, like being trapped in a scene out of a zombie apocalypse.

    But Effie wasn''t scared by the crowd. She''d braved haunted houses before this was nothing. What unsettled her, though, was how these people seemed to be deliberately pushing her away from Lyman.

    She was almost certain it was intentional.

    "Lyman! Lyman!" she called, her voice rising in panic.

    But there were just too many bodies, shoving her further and further away.

    Lyman realized it too. At this point, fighting the crowd was pointless.

    He looked around frantically, trying to find another way.

    Then he dashed toward the control booth and quickly exined the situation.

    Suddenly, the speakers red with the roar of a chainsaw revving to life. Onstage, a performance kicked off.

    Amidst pounding music and shing lights, every spotlight zeroed in on a single figure.

    t belongs to Sw life.

    Lyman spun around-his Chainsaw Man persona, cool and imposing, drew every eye in the ce.

    Dragging the chainsaw prop behind him, he strode toward the show host.

    His striking appearance,bined with that aura of unapproachable, dangerous charisma, left the

    audience spellbound. It felt like

    even the air itself was holding its breath.

    Gradually, Effie felt the crowd around her begin to thin.

    Seizing the chance, she darted toward a less crowded corner.

    From her hiding spot, Isabel watched as Effie slipped further and further away.

    Her hands clenched so tightly her nails nearly broke the skin of her palms.

    "Damn it! Just a little bit more..." Isabel muttered through gritted teeth.

    At that moment, a burst of fireworks crackled above the stage.

    Everyone''s eyes lifted skyward.

    Smoke billowed across the stage, and in the chaos, Lyman vanished.

    By the time the crowd realized what had happened, he was already gone. "Effie."

    Somehow, Lyman had slipped out of his Chainsaw Man costume and was suddenly right beside her.

    Effie stared at him in shock, mouth agape. "How did you find me here?"

    Lyman smiled. "If I told you we''re just on the same wavelength, would you believe me?"

    But there was no time for more exnations.

    Grabbing Effie''s hand, Lyman pulled her quickly toward the back exit of the amusement park. "That''s the staff entrance-tourists aren''t allowed out that way."

    Effie nced back. A crowd of people was already chasing after them.

 Chapter 438

    Effie turned, her gaze trailing along Lyman''s slender wrist until she met his handsome, striking face.

    "They''reing-run!" she urged breathlessly.

    Lyman nodded. "Alright."

    But instead of running, he stopped in his tracks.

    Effie froze, panic rising in her chest. Why would he stop now? Didn''t he realize¡ª

    Before she could finish the thought, Lyman scooped her up effortlessly.

    Startled, Effie instinctively wrapped her arms around his neck, afraid she might fall.

    A yful smile flickered at the corner of Lyman''s lips as he dashed toward the exit, carrying her as if she weighed nothing at all.

    He moved fast-so fast that the people chasing them quickly fell behind. In no time, they burst out into the open air, safe and free.

    Their driver was already waiting by the curb. The moment they jumped into the backseat, he mmed his foot on the gas, and the car sped off down the street.

    Effie and Lyman, hands intertwined, nced back through the rear window. Their pursuers had made it outside too, but on foot, they were no match for a speeding

    car.

    "Finally lost them," Effie sighed in relief.

    She turned to Lyman, a bright smile breaking over her face.

    He reached over and gently wiped a bead of sweat from the tip of her nose.

    They really had run hard, and the adrenaline had left her a little flushed.

    "Sorry," Effie said, her eyes full of remorse. "I wanted today to be rxing, but- well, that happened..."

    Lyman tousled her hair affectionately. "Don''t be sorry. I had a st. Honestly, I feel more rxed now than I have in ages."

    "Really?" Effie asked, searching his eyes.

    Heughed. "When have I ever lied to you?"

    Meanwhile, Isabel watched Lyman and Effie drive away, a sinking feeling twisting in her gut. She started to slip quietly through the crowd, hoping to make her own escape.

    But someone''s sharp eyes caught her.

    "You! You''re the one who told us the big scavenger hunt prize was with that woman-said whoever got it first would win some secret reward. I didn''t even believe you until you shed your staff badge. Tums out you were lying, weren''t you? The organizers just announced there was never any prize!"

    As the usation rang out, more people began to converge on Isabel, eyes zing with anger.

    Her heart pounded, terror tightening her chest. If she stayed, there was no telling what they''d do to her.

    She bolted, weaving through the crowd as angry voices chased after her. "Get back here, you fraud!"

    Fortunately, after the earlier shoving incident at the park, staff were on high alert for trouble. They stepped in quickly, making sure nothing got out of hand.

    Seizing the chaos, Isabel slipped away.

    Only when she was well clear did she remember-with a jolt of regret that in her rush to escape, she''d forgotten to collect her wages for the day.

    She stamped her foot in frustration. "Damn that Effie!"

    Just then, her phone buzzed.

    When she checked the screen, her eyes widened in surprise.

    "Grace?" she muttered.

    Grace''s voice came through, cool and mocking. "Isabel, wow. It''s been what, a

    year? And things have only gotten worse for you, huh?"

    Isabel''s mood, already sour, snapped. Fury threatened to spill over.

    She gritted her teeth. "Grace, what''s your problem? Did you call just to gloat? Sorry to disappoint, but it''ll take more than this to break me. Just wait and see."  fo

    "Oooh, still as touchy as ever. I barely said two words and you''re already throwing

    a tantrum," Grace taunted.

    "Shut up, Grace! What''s wrong-couldn''t get your way with your sister, so you came to pick a fight with me instead?" Isabel shot back, her voice rising.

    The smugness vanished from Grace''s voice in an instant.

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 Chapter 439

    "Isabel, shut up! You''ve pined after Lyman for years, only to have some stranger swoop in and steal him away. Pathetic!"

    Grace knew exactly how to hit Isabel where it hurt. Isabel felt so furious she could barely breathe.

    "What''s your problem, Grace? Back when I liked Lyman, you never stopped belittling me, always saying I was a nobody chasing after someone out of my league. Now that he''s married to someone else, you''re here to mock me again? What''s the deal? Had a sudden change of heart? Decided I''m not so bad after all?"

    Grace let out a sharpugh. "Wow, Isabel, you really do love ttering yourself. You honestly think you''re someone special? Who do you think you are?"

    "Grace, just stop! Why did you even call me? If you have something to say, spit it out already!"

    "How crude," Grace sneered with obvious distaste.

    Isabel''s eyes darkened. Even now, Grace just couldn''t resist trying to show off.

    "I''m going to count to three. Three... one!"

    "Have you lost your mind, Isabel? Did you swallow two?" Grace snapped, her voice rising with irritation.

    Isabel shot back, "No, I skipped two, because you''re the fool in this conversation."

    Grace was momentarily speechless.

    "You know, Isabel, you''re only brave enough to mouth off to me. Your precious Lyman got taken by someone else, and you still have the nerve to strut around like you''re in charge."

    "So what''s your point?" Isabel''s patience was wearing thin. If Grace kept this up, she''d just hang up.

    "Fine, I''ll get to it. I can''t stand Effie," Grace said bluntly.

    Isabel wasn''t surprised. She''d half-expected Grace to say that. "Grace, I have to wonder-why do you hate every woman around Lyman? Are you some kind of creep, secretly obsessed with your own brother?"

    ¡°Shut up, Isabel! If I ever wanted Lyman, you think you''d stand a chance?" Grace hissed, practically grinding her teeth.

    Her secret-only Annabel knew.

    Isabel frowned thoughtfully. She had to admit, Grace had a point. If Grace were really interested in Lyman, she would''ve made her move long ago; Effie never would''ve had a shot.

    "So, what do you want?" Isabel''s tone grew calmer.

    "I just don''t like Effie. Anyone good enough to be Lyman''s wife should be the best of the best."

    Isabel agreed Effie wasn''t good enough for Lyman, but Grace''s perfectionism was

    a bit much. Who in the world was ever that wless?

    "Let''s hear your n," Isabel said.

    If Grace was calling toin about Effie, she definitely wanted Isabel''s help to get rid of her. If Grace wanted to use her, Isabel could y the same game. In the

    end, they''d see who was the sharper knife.

    s?novel

    "Good," Grace replied. "d to see you''re on board. Once I''ve got the perfect n, I''ll be in touch."

    "Fine," Isabel replied, a sly smile curling at her lips. "I''ll be waiting for your good news."

    When Lyman woke up, the first thing he heard was the babbling of a small child downstairs, apanied by a deep, husky voice carrying on a gentle conversation.

    The sound made Lyman instantly alert. He swung his legs over the side of the bed

    and hurried downstairs.

    y, hearing the footsteps, instinctively looked up toward the stairway.

    And finally-he saw Lyman.

    Lyman saw y, too.

 Chapter 440

    y scooped Andie up from the floor, just as Lyman rushed over and punched y hard in the shoulder. "When did you get back?"

    y looked absolutely exhausted-dusty from travel, hair a wild mess, his face

    drawn and weary.

    "Just now..."

    Suddenly, pain twisted y''s features. His body crumpled to the ground, shattering like ss.

    "y!"

    Lyman jolted awake, cold sweat on his brow. For a moment, he was disoriented- then he realized it had all been a dream.

    Beside him, Effie stirred, startled by his sudden outburst. She blinked sleepily at him. "What''s wrong?"

    Lyman pressed his lips together and shook his head. "Nothing. Just a bad dream.¡±

    Effie pulled him into her arms. Lyman let himself rx against her, breathing in her soft scent and the warmth of her body. In that moment, he couldn''t help but think ¡ªmaybe it feels good to let himself be vulnerable, just a little.

    Effie, barely awake, drifted right back to sleep.

    When morning came, Lyman was just waking up too.

    "Good morning," he said.

    Effie stretched like azy kitten. "Morning."

    Lyman''s gaze followed her movement, lingering on her chest. He swallowed, eyes darkening.

    His hand shot out, pulling Effie closer by the waist. With a gentle tug, she tumbled against him.

    Just as Lyman was about to take things further, his phone rang.

    A jolt of unease shot through him for reasons he couldn''t exin.

    He answered, every muscle suddenly taut.

    "I''ll be there right away," he said, then hung up and jumped out of bed. "What happened?" Effie asked, concerned.

    Lyman was already striding toward the closet, pulling on clothes as ke spoke. y was in a car ident. Hended and drove straight from the airport to our ce, but he was too tired-fell asleep at the wheel."

    Effie immediately thought of Lyman''s nightmare from the night before.

    Was it really some kind of brotherly intuition?

    "He''s in surgery now," Lyman continued. ¡°I''m heading to the hospital to find out more."

    "I''ll drive," Effie said, worried he''d be too rattled to focus on the road. Thest thing they needed was another ident.

    He nodded. "Okay."

    When they got to the hospital, Grace was already waiting outside the operating

    room.

    The moment she spotted Lyman, she rushed over. "Lyman!"

    But as soon as she caught sight of Effie at his side, a surge of irritation red up inside her. Something about Effie just rubbed her the wrong way-her voice, her presence, everything.

    "What''s going on? How is he?" Effie asked gently.

    Grace shook her head, looking lost. "I... I don''t know..."

    Lyman figured she was just

    overwrought. "Try not to worry. et

    you''re feeling faint, Effie can keep you Company in the waiting room. It might help to sit down and rest.¡±

    Thest thing Grace wanted was to be alone with Effie, but she couldn''t say that

    with Lyman there.

    Distracted, she stumbled, nearly tripping over her own feet.

    Effie caught her arm. "Are you okay?"

    Grace''s expression tightened, and she subtly pulled her hand free. "I''m fine.

    Thanks," she replied, her tone polite but distant.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 441

    Effie Bagnold could sense Grace McCloud''s resistance to her presence, but she just smiled, saying nothing.

    Grace sat down unwillingly, perching on the edge of her chair as if ready to flee at any moment.

    Just then, footsteps echoed down the hallway. Annabel McCloud and Fenton arrived almost at the same time, followed closely by Vinson Elliott, Randell Hoffman, and a few others.

    Vinson nced at Annabel and Fenton with mock usation. "You two are so weird. I was calling after you the whole way and the more I called, the faster you walked. What''s up with that?"

    Annabel whipped around and shot Vinson a re sharp enough to cut ss. "Shut it."

    Vinson shrank back a little. Annabel was older than him, and she could be fierce and overbearing when she wanted to be-he''d learned long ago that he couldn''t win a fight with her, so it was best to retreat when necessary.

    But that didn''t mean he couldn''t mutter under his breath. "Fine, I won''t mention how you and Fenton got out of the same cab together."

    Annabel looked at him, exasperated. If looks could kill, Vinson would have died a thousand deaths right there.

    Grace''s eyes narrowed as she stared at Annabel and Fenton. "Wait a second, Vinson. Did you just say my sister and oh, sorry, ex-brother-inw-got out of a cab together?"

    Fenton met Grace''s look,pletely unbothered. "Annabel''s car got in a little ident. Some guy''s car hit hers."

    "You were in a car ident? Are you okay?" Lyman Etheridge turned to Annabel with concern.

    Annabel waved him off. "It''s fine. Just a scratch. The other guy insisted on calling the police, so I had to let my assistant deal with it."

    When she said "the other guy," she shot Fenton a re that could have bored holes right through him.

    Vinson''s eyes went wide. He pped a hand over his mouth, as if he''d just discovered some scandalous secret. "Wait, you two..."

    Fenton shrugged. "Yeah, I was the unlucky one."

    "Unlucky? Please, I''m the one with all the bad luck. I should''ve checked my horoscope before leaving the house. Every time I run into you, something always goes wrong!" Annabel huffed, jaw clenched.

    "I swear, I''m the one who needs luck. Running into you and your ''incident''-I need to go wash my eyes out." Annabel spat out the words, exasperated.

    Fenton gave her a look. "Annabel, I already told you, that was my assistant. She identally knocked over a trinket in my car and bent down to pick it up¡ª"

    "Oh,e on. That''s themest excuse I''ve ever heard. Do you really think anyone''s going to believe that?"

    Vinson raised his hand. "I believe it."

    Annabel''s teeth ground audibly. She was itching for a fight, desperate to bite someone just to get the frustration out.

    Grace spoke up, voice full of

    mischief. "Sis, why do you care so

    much about your ex-husband''s business? Whatever he gets up to, it''s none of your concern-you''re divorced, remember?"

    Annabel shot Grace a re that was positively murderous.

    At this point, Grace met Annabel''s eyes, utterly unfazed-in fact, she looked almost defiant, like she was daring Annabel to lose her cool in front of everyone.

    Annabel wanted to scream, but she held it in. She knew exactly what Grace was trying to do. If she lost control now, everyone would see right through her.

    Just then, the doors to the operating room swung open and y was wheeled

    out.

    The arguing stopped instantly as everyone hurried over.

    Effie, not knowing y, hung back and only then noticed that Grace was thest to stand. She watched as Grace nced at y, and for just a split second, seemed almost... disappointed to see him alive and welf. Or had Effie imagined it?

    Effie''s curiosity about Grace only deepened. What sort of woman was this? Why

    did she give off the impression that she didn''t love her own child¡ªor her husband?

 Chapter 442

    If she didn''t love him, why did she marry him? Why have a child at all?

    But that was just Effie''s own spection¡ªshe hoped she was wrong.

    "Who''s the patient''s next of kin?" the doctor asked.

    Everyone stepped aside, all eyes turning to Grace.

    She had no choice but to step forward. "I am," she said.

    The doctor addressed her directly. "I''m sorry, ma''am. Your husband''s leg was seriously injured. We did everything we could during surgery, but you should prepare yourself-there''s a chance he may lose the ability to walk."

    A tense silence gripped the room.

    Grace kept her expression calm, but her hands balled into fists, her nails digging deep into her palms.

    Most assumed she was simply devastated, but only she and Annabel knew what she was really thinking.

    Suddenly, Grace felt a weight on her shoulder.

    She didn''t even need to look-it was Annabel.

    Leaning in close, Annabel whispered in her ear, "Grace, remember who you are right now."

    Without a word, Grace shook Annabel''s hand off. Turning to the doctor, she said, "Thank you, doctor. I''ll make sure he does his physical therapy. With proper rehab, he''ll get better, right?"

    The doctor nodded. "That''s right. With dedicated rehab, there''s a good chance he''ll walk again."

    Vinson Elliott took a step closer and asked the doctor in a low voice, "Doctor, will this ident-affect his, you know, future happiness?"

    The doctor looked taken aback, an awkward flicker in his eyes.

    Randell promptly hooked an arm around Vinson Elliott''s neck and pulled him

    away. "Don''t mind him, doctor. He''s from the asylum."

    "Randell, you''re crazy! You''re the crazy one! Your whole family''s insane!" Vinson Elliott grumbled as he was dragged off.

    The heavy mood in the room was abruptly broken by Vinson Elliott''s antics.

    "Thank you, doctor. If anythinges up, we''ll reach out," Lyman said, giving the doctor an out.

    The doctor nodded, clearly relieved, and left.

    Lyman turned to Vinson Elliott. "You two should head home."

    "But Lyman, I-¡ª¡±

    Before Vinson Elliott could finish, Randell tugged him away.

    In the

    drifted back-Randell calling Vinson idiot who never knew when to keep his mouth shut

    Ellia muffled curse

    ...

    When y finally woke, a crowd of faces hovered over him.

    He frowned. "What are you all doing here?"

    que

    For a moment, he thought he was dreaming. He tried to sit up, but his legs feltpletely drained he couldn''t move them at all.

    "My legs..."

    "What happened?"

    A sharp pain shot through his head as it all came rushing back¡ªhe''d been in a car crash.

    "My legs... Are they useless now?" The fear and helplessness washed over him, threatening to pull him under.

    Lyman''s gaze darkened, aplex look passing through his eyes.

    He said quietly, "The doctor said it isn''t as bad as it seems. With rehab, you should be able to walk again."

    "Rehab?"

    y grabbed Lyman''s hand, desperate. "I want to start now!"

    "You just got out of surgery. Your

    body needs time to heal-you c

    push

    self yet Ly

    arrepfled

    his tone gentle but firm.

    y gradually calmed down. "Sorry, I just..."

 Chapter 443

    Lyman gave y''s shoulder a reassuring pat. "You''re going to be fine," he said firmly. "I''ll find the best doctor out there to help you."

    y looked at him gratefully. "Thanks, man. Really."

    After a while, Lyman and the others filed out, leaving only Grace behind in the hospital room.

    y nced at her and said, "You can go now."

    Grace scoffed, folding her arms. "You think I want to stick around? Trust me, I can''t stand you either."

    But y just chuckled. "Too bad we''re stuck with each other, like it or not."

    Normally, a remark like that would have set Grace off immediately. But this time, she just smiled-though there was something unsettling in her expression.

    y hesitated, narrowing his eyes. "Grace, what are you up to now?"

    She shot back, "You''re in no shape to boss me around, y. Not that you ever could."

    He opened his mouth, but she cut him off.

    "It doesn''t matter," he said with a wry smile. "As long as we''re still married, you can''t do anything too crazy."

    Grace snorted, settling herself in a chair with her phone. Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed y reaching weakly for a ss of water. She looked away, pretending not to see. Let him go thirsty for all she cared.

    Just then, the door swung open.

    Grace quickly dropped her phone, sprang to her feet, and put on her best helpful act. "You should''ve called me if you were thirsty, y! Here, let me get you some water."

    "Daddy!" Andie burst into the room, arms stretched wide, ready to leap into y''s embrace.

    But as soon as she caught sight of Grace, she froze, going silent and still.

    y''s face lit up at the sight of his daughter. He stretched out his arms. "Hey, Andie."

    Hearing his voice, Andie''s tension melted away. She reached for him, eyes bright. "Daddy, hug!"

    Oh, how y wished he could scoop her up and toss her in the air like before, spinning her around until she squealed withughter. But now...

    "Daddy?" Andie nestled into y''s arms and peered up at him, curious.

    Her weight pressed on his injured legs, making him wince, but he couldn''t bring himself to let her go.

    Grace noticed the pain flickering across y''s face, but said nothing. She almost enjoyed watching him suffer.

    "Andie,e here, sweetheart. Come to Grandma," Lindy Etheridge coaxed gently from the doorway.

    But Andie clung to y, refusing to let go. As long as her daddy was there, she wanted no one else.

    It took ages, but eventually Andie drifted off to sleep. Only then did Lindy have the housekeeper lift Andie away.

    Even so, Andie''s small hands clung tightly to the nket, as if letting go would mean losing her beloved daddy for good.

    Lindy turned to y. "When you''re discharged, all of you shoulde stay at my ce for a while. There''ll be people to help and you''ll recover faster."

    Grace jumped in, "That''s really not necessary, Godmother. I can take care of him."

    But y saw right through her. He knew Grace wanted to stay with the Etheridge family, but only if it made things harder for him. There was ne way she''d actually let him move in.

    was no

    Not that y wanted to live with the Etheridge family either.

    "That''s very kind of you, Mrs.

    Etheridge," he said politely. Det

    physical therapist for me. They''ll be ¡¤

    starting soon, so we''ll manage

 Chapter 444

    "All right, then," Lindy finally rxed, reassured. "If you need anything, just let me know."

    "Will do."

    After being discharged from the hospital, y and Grace went straight home.

    Life seemed to slip quietly back to normal. Everyone returned to their own routines, each person busy in their own world.

    Today was the Etheridge family''s monthly dinner.

    Fidelia Etheridge clung to Marcia''s hand, giving it a gentle shake. "Mom, please say yes. I really, really want to go."

    "No, absolutely not. You''re a young girl, and I wouldn''t feelfortable letting you go alone," Marcia insisted.

    Just then, Lindy and Effie came in.

    Fidelia immediately pointed at Effie. "You cane with me."

    Effie raised an eyebrow, confused. What''s going on? Since when were she and Fidelia on such friendly terms?

    She thought Fidelia was still holding a grudge about that awkward matchmaking dinner.

    "Go where, exactly?" Lindy asked.

    "To an escape room," Fidelia exined. "A real-life one. I promised some... friends I''d go with them this weekend. But Mom thinks it''s too risky for a girl to go alone."

    She turned to Effie. "So this weekend, you''reing with me."

    It wasn''t a suggestion-Fidelia sounded more like she was issuing amand.

    Effie was about to reply when Marcia, trying to sound gentle and reasonable, said, "Escape rooms and all this new stuff-we older folks don''t really get it. Effie, you''re young, about the same age as Fidelia. Maybe you could keep herpany?"

    Marcia''s tone was at least kinder, almost like she was asking for a favor.

    Effie didn''t agree. She said, "Sorry, I already have ns with a friend that day. I can''t bail on them."

    In truth, Effie had no such ns. She just didn''t want to go.

    She and Fidelia weren''t close. After that awkward dinner, there was still tension between them; Effie doubted Fidelia genuinely wanted her along.

    Fidelia seemed to have expected her refusal and snorted. "Fine, don''te. Whatever."

    Marcia frowned, seeing Fidelia''s disappointment. She tried to coax her daughter, then turned a pleading gaze to Effie "Effie as Fidelia''s sister-inw, couldn''t you just-"

    "No," Effie cut in.

    At that moment, Bancroft Etheridge strode in, his voice cold. "If Effie doesn''t want to go, why are you pushing her?"

    Marcia quickly protested, "Dad, we wouldn''t dream of forcing her."

    "Then let''s drop it," Bancroft said, his tone brooking no argument.

    With Bancroft''s decision made, no one dared pursue the matter further.

    After dinner, Bancroft asked Effie to stay behind for a game of chess.

    Nobody else was in a hurry to leave They were curious-Effie had won against Bancroft so many times before was it just luck or did she really have that much skill

    As it turned out, Effie was every bit as formidable as before. She won nearly every

    match, and even Bancroft had to admit defeat with a gracious smile.

    "Effie, did you ever study chess with a master?" Bancroft asked, looking at her with newfound respect.

    "I learned from my grandfather," Effie replied. "When I was little, he''d teach me whenever he had the time."

    A thought struck Bancroft. He hesitated, then asked, "Your grandfather¡ªhisst name was Spencer, wasn''t it?"

    Effie found the question oddly

    endearing. Bancroft had visited her

    grother before and had

    addressed her as Mrs. Spencer Had he really forgotten so soon?

    But she answered honestly, "Yes."

 Chapter 445

    Bancroft suddenly grew animated. "Wait a second-don''t tell me it''s Mr. Clyde Spencer?"

    Effie nodded. "That''s right. Do you know my grandfather?"

    Bancroft almost leapt from his seat. "Well, that exins everything!"

    He went on, "You might not realize it, but Mr. Spencer is a grandmaster. Anyone who''s even remotely serious about chess knows his name."

    Who would have guessed that Effie was trained by Clyde himself?

    No wonder there was no way he could''ve won!

    Effie shrugged. "I had no idea my grandpa was such a big deal. I always thought he was just some old guy who happened to be good at chess."

    Bancroft burst outughing. "If Mr. Spencer ever heard you describe him like that, I can''t even imagine what he''d think."

    Effie grinned. "That''s exactly how he describes himself. He calls himself an old man who likes a quiet game of chess now and then. He teaches at the university most of the time, so he only ys when he''s free.¡±

    Bancroft shook his head in admiration. "Some people really are just born with a gift."

    Across the room, Fidelia shot Effie a disdainful look and whispered to Marcia, "Mom, I bet Effie''s been waiting ages for this moment-she totally dropped that bomb on purpose."

    Marcia nodded. "I knew it. She''s been ying dumb this whole time."

    What the others thought didn''t bother Bancroft in the slightest. In fact, the more he watched Effie, the more he liked her as his granddaughter-inw.

    Lyman turned to Effie. "How about a match? You and me?"

    Effie smiled. "Aren''t you afraid you''ll lose?"

    Lyman grinned back. "It''s just a game, not a matter of life or death. What''s there to be afraid of?"

    Before, everyone had assumed Lyman was just dodging a match with Effie to avoid being embarrassed in front of the family. Now, he was putting those rumors to rest himself.

    Watching Bancroft and Effie y. had already been thrilling enough but this would be the first time anyone had seen Effie go up against Lyman. The whole room buzzed, with curiosity and excitement.

    Friedman Etheridge leaned toward Lindy. "So, who do you think will win-our daughter-inw or our son?"

    Lindyughed. "Does it matter? Either way, it''s the family''s win."

    Friedman grinned. "True, but I was about to suggest a little wager. If win, you give me that fishing rod If youawin, tu buy you that handbag you''ve been eyeing."

    Lindy hadn''t intended to bet, but Friedman''s terms were tempting.

    "Deal," she said. "I''m betting on Effie."

    "Fine, then I''m betting on Lyman," Friedman replied.

    Bancroft chimed in, "Count me in, too. I''m betting on Effie."

    "If you''re betting, you have to put something up," Friedman said.

    Bancroft scoffed. "What, you think I can''t cough up a fishing rod if I lose? I just

    hope you don''t chicken out when you lose."

    Friedman huffed. "I''m not afraid of losing."

    "Good," Bancroft replied. "Then if I win, I want that marble chessboard you keep in your study."

    It finally clicked for Friedman. "Dad, so this whole thing was a setup?¡±

    Bancroft just grinned. "Why not? Didn''t you say you were sure you''d win?"

    Friedman was nearly left speechless.

    As she set up the pieces, Effie couldn''t help but think to herself that Lyman must

    have inherited his knack for setting traps from his father.

    And it wasn''t just Friedman and the others making wagers-bets were flying all around the room.

    Some, like Fowler, Healy, and

    Graham Etheridge, were sure

    would win-maybe it wa

    guy

    other

    thing The women, on the hand, were all rooting for Effie.

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 Chapter 446

    The house instantly split into two camps.

    Effie leaned in and whispered to Lyman, "Whew, the pressure''s on."

    A sly grin tugged at Lyman''s lips. "Ignore them. Let''s just focus on our game."

    "Right."

    Healy chimed in, "No secret plotting, you two. All of us Etheridges y fair and square-honest to the core."

    Fowler nodded. "That''s right."

    Normally, you''d never see them so united, but today, they stood together like a true team.

    Effie sat across from Lyman, feeling the tension for the first time. Chess had always been easygoing with her grandfather¡ªmore about learning than winning, with him gently guiding her moves.

    But ying against Lyman was a whole different story. The stakes felt real. It was as if they were waging a silent battle-she, the indomitablemander, and Lyman, her equally formidable rival.

    They traded moves back and forth, neither side gaining the upper hand. As the match dragged on, every y grew more cautious, every decision more deliberate. One wrong move could mean defeat.

    The spectators hardly dared to breathe. It felt less like watching a board game and more like witnessing two generalsmanding armies on the battlefield-so intense it sent shivers through the onlookers.

    "Check," Effie dered.

    Lyman''s brow furrowed. In his rush, he''d made a mistake.

    "Wait, hold on-"

    Effie quickly put a hand over his, stopping him from taking back his move. "No take-backs, Lyman. You lost."

    Lyman gave a sheepishugh, barely believing he''d actually lost a game.

    Seeing Lyman''s defeat, Healy and Fowler stared in disbelief.

    "Lyman, you didn''t let her win on purpose, did you?" Healy asked.

    Lyman shot him a look. "Are you doubting Effie''s skill, Uncle?"

    "N-no,

    "

    not what I meant, I

    bet

    y hesitated, realizing he''d too soon. The others n''t.

    had a chance to chime in.

    "I mean, you''re really amazing, Effie," Healy added quickly.

    Effie shook her head. "I just got lucky. If we yed again, I might not win."

    Everyone thought she was being

    modest. Only Effie knew Lyman was

    every bit her equal. She''d just

    managed to keep her cool when

    Lyman started to lose his

    Lyman grinned. "How about another round?"

    "Again?" Friedman groaned. "I''m going to end up broke at this rate."

    Lindyughed. "Come on, let''s have another game!"

    Bancroft, too, perked up. "Don''t forget, that''s my chessboard you''re using."

    Seeing he was outnumbered, Friedman made a quick escape.

    Even after some of the others drifted off, Effie and Lyman kept at it, both intent on the game. And just as Effie had predicted, the wins went back and forth-neither of them dominating every match.

    But in the end, the oue hardly mattered to anyone else.

    "Grandpa''s asleep," Effie whispered, nodding to Bancroft, who was dozing in his chair.

    Lyman nced over at Bancroft, mischief sparkling in his eyes. He called out, "Grandpa!"

    Bancroft jolted awake, blinking blearily. "What? Is it morning already?"

    Effie and Lyman burst outughing. ¡°Grandpa, why don''t you go to bed? You look ready to drop."

    Bancroft insisted, ¡°Nonsense, I''m wide awake. Keep ying."

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 Chapter 447

    Effie was curled up on the sofa next to her grandmother, the two of them sharing a bowl of popcorn while watching TV. The afternoon sun driftedzily through the curtains, and everything felt peaceful and easy.

    But her phone buzzed repeatedly, shattering the calm.

    Her grandmother nced over, concern flickering across her face. "Effie, your phone''s been going off for a while now. Maybe you should check who''s trying to reach you it could be something important."

    Effie sighed. ¡°Alright, I''ll see who it is."

    She grabbed a napkin and wiped the salt and grease from her fingers before picking up the phone, scrolling through the notifications at a leisurely pace.

    It was just a string of messages from Fidelia. With a small frown, Effie silenced her phone and tossed it onto the coffee table. ¡°Just someone being dramatic," she said.

    Three hours went by. After a hearty lunch, Effie picked up her phone again and finally noticed several missed calls-some from Lindy, others from Marcia.

    A vague sense of unease settled in her chest.

    Just then, Lindy''s name shed on the screen once more. Effie pressed answer.

    "Mom?"

    "Oh, thank God you finally picked up," Lindy breathed, sounding relieved.

    In the background, Marcia''s anxious voice broke through. "Lindy, can you ask Effie if Fidelia''s with her? I''ve called them a dozen times and no one''s answering!" Marcia sounded nearly frantic.

    Effie remembered the earlier messages from Fidelia, still confused by the whole thing. "I''m not with her," she said quietly to Lindy.

    Marcia''s voice came through,

    sharper now. "What? That can''t be! Effie, are you lying? Fidelia told me youd agreed to go out with her-that''s the only reason I let her out. If you''re not with her, then where¡ª¡±

    Effie cut her off. "Then Fidelia lied to you."

    "I never said I''d go anywhere with her."

    Marcia''s voice rose, tight with disbelief. "That''s not true-I saw her message you!"

    Effie answered, ¡°Right, she did message me. But I never agreed to go."

    A pause, then Marcia snapped, "How can you be so cold? She reached out to you ¡ªanyone with a heart would have checked in, especially since she''s family! If anything happens to Fidelia, I won''t forgive you!"

    Effie was stunned by the usation. She''d never once promised to go to any escape room adventure with Fidelia Clearly Fidelia had used bet as an excuse to sneak out and now Marcia was trying to shift the me onto her.

    Effie took a slow breath. "Aunt Marcia, let me ask you something: how old is Fidelia this year?"

    Marcia, frazzled, snapped back, "She''s twenty-two! What''s your point?"

    "My point," Effie said evenly, "is that she''s an adult now. She can make her own choices and deal with the consequences. If she lied to you to go out, that''s on her -not me."

    Marcia''s voice shot up an octave. "How can you be so heartless?"

    At that, Lindy-who''d been listening quietly, unable to take any more finally spoke up. "Marcia, only called Effie because I thought she''d actually agreed to go with Fidelia. That''s what Fidelia told us.¡±

 Chapter 448

    "So Effie never even agreed to go out with Fidelia in the first ce-how can you possibly me her for this?"

    Lindy shot an angry look at Marcia. "Marcia, it''s not fair to throw usations at Effie just because you''re upset."

    Realizing she was losing ground, Marcia nced nervously at Lindy.

    Suddenly, tears welled up and spilled over as she burst out, "But what are we supposed to do about Fidelia?"

    Effie''s voice rang out through the speakerphone, calm and clear: "We should call the police."

    ¡°But..... it hasn''t even been twenty-four hours since she went missing. Will they even take the case? And, well... she''s an adult now," someone hesitated.

    That was exactly why Marcia had tried to drag Effie into the mess. After all, the main branch of the family had much more sway than the Fowlers did.

    "Fidelia is family. Of course we''ll help," Lindy said firmly. "But I don''t want to hear any more me being tossed around."

    Marcia was quick to respond, "Thank you, Lindy. I''m sorry. I was just panicking."

    Tears streaked Marcia''s cheeks, her face twisted with anxious worry for her daughter. No matter how angry Lindy was, she couldn''t keep scolding her now. "Let''s leave it for now," Lindy said, sighing. "We''ll talk more once we find her."

    Sensing Lindy''s softening, Marcia seized the moment, pleading, "Since you''re willing to help, could you call Lyman for me? He''s resourceful, knows a lot of people. If anyone can find Fidelia, it''s him."

    Lindy could see right through Marcia''s attempt to rope Effie into responsibility. But she didn''t call her out.

    "Lyman''s out of town on business¡ªhe won''t be back soon. But I''ll give him a call and ask him to reach out to his contacts."

    Marcia nearly dropped to her knees in gratitude. "Thank you, Lindy. Thank you so much."

    A little whileter, Effie''s phone buzzed. She answered, "Hey, Lyman?"

    "I heard about Fidelia. And Aunt Marcia tried to pin it on you?"

    Effie sighed. "Yeah, but it''s fine. I''m not that easy to push around."

    There was a pause, then Lyman

    said Don''t worry about any of thet

    All handle it. I''ll have people look for Fidelia."

    "Okay."

    Effie hesitated, then added, ¡°Fidelia

    sent me her location. I''ll forward it to

    septime

    you so you can pass it on to your

    contacts."

    "Will do," Lyman replied.

    "Just stay home and don''t go anywhere. No one''s going to give you any trouble,"

    he told her gently.

    Staying out of it didn''t mean running away.

    "Alright," she agreed quietly.

    This whole thing really had nothing to do with her, and Effie had no intention of getting dragged in.

    Just then, her phone rang again¡ªNita''s name shed on the screen. Effie picked up immediately. "Nita?"

    "Effie, I went to a live escape room event today, and I saw your sister-inw, Fidelia," Nita said breathlessly.

    "Where are you now? Is she still with you?" Effie asked quickly.

    If there was a real lead, she wasn''t above lending a hand.

    Nita exined, "That''s what I wanted to talk to you about. I was actually there today for work, to meet a new client Sol was pretty much glued their side. But then realized your sister-inw was gone! No one saw where she went..."

    A loud tter rang out as Nita''s phone hit the floor, the sharp sound slicing through the call.

 Chapter 449

    "Nita? Nita, are you still there?" Effie called into her phone several times, but Nita''s voice never came back.

    Her grandmother looked over, concern creasing her face. "Effie, what''s wrong?"

    "Nita dropped her phone-I''m going to look for her, see what happened," Effie replied, grabbing her jacket.

    Her grandmother cautioned, "Be careful. If anything feels off, get out of there right away."

    Effie chuckled as she pulled on her shoes. "So you''re telling me to act like a scared little turtle and hide if there''s trouble?"

    Her grandmother shot her a look, lips twitching at the corners. "Better to be called a coward than to end up hurt. Nothing is more important than your life."

    "Fair point. After all these years under your influence, I must''ve inherited your survivor''s instincts. I''m all about self-preservation," Effie teased.

    Her grandmother couldn''t help butugh, giving Effie a yful nudge. "You and that smart mouth of yours."

    Effie grinned and called back, ¡°I''ll be back before you know it, Grandma." "Alright, take care."

    As soon as the door clicked shut, her grandmother''s smile faded. She fumbled for her sses, quickly dialing Lyman''s number.

    Effie hadn''t been on the road long when Vinson Elliott and Randell showed up.

    Effie, who had just started her car, caught a glimpse of movement in the mirror and tensed¡ªuntil Vinson rolled down his window, shing a wide, reassuring grin. Effie exhaled, relief flooding her.

    "Effie!" Vinson called, waving. From the passenger seat, Randell leaned over and greeted her, "Hey Effie, fancy running into you out here! Where are you off to?"

    Effie didn''t bother with pleasantries. "You two aren''t fooling anyone. What do you really want?"

    Vinson shrugged, unbothered. "We''re just following orders. Lyman told us to keep an eye on you, so here we are."

    "I''m looking for Nita. As soon as I find her, I''m heading straight home," Effie said tly.

    The mention of Nita wiped the smile from Vinson''s face. "She got herself mixed up in this too?"

    "She said she was out looking for new clients," Effie replied.

    Vinson scoffed. "That woman will chase any deal, huh? She''s already a manager does she really need more money? How much is enough?"

    Randell shot Vinson a sideways nce. "Why are you so worked up? Do you have a thing for her or something?"

    "Oh, give me a break," Vinson

    retorted. "Get your mind out of the et gutter. She''s my employee-ofe?

    course I care. If something happens to her, I lose one of my best people."

    Randell smirked. "Shouldn''t you be happy to have someone so driven on your team? What''s there to be annoyed about?"

    Vinson frowned, caught off guard by the question. Why was he so irritated?

    "I''m not some heartless boss. I didn''t force anyone into this. If Effie gets mad at me over this, then what?"

    There it was the real worry. Vinson wasn''t afraid of Effie; he was afraid of the man behind her.

    Soon, they pulled up in front of the old building where the escape room game was supposed to be¡ªa long-abandoned private school.

    The ce had a grim reputation.

    Years ago, a student had died on the grounds, and since then, ghost stories had flourished. Eventually, fear drove students and parents away, and the ce fell into ruin.

    Vinson shivered, skin prickling with goosebumps. ¡°Jeez, the grass is taller than I am. Even in broad daylight, this ce is creepy as hell. What kind of idiot woulde here for fun?" he muttered.

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 Chapter 450

    This ce had been abandoned for years, but there were always people who wanted to redevelop it. Every time a construction crew tried to start work, though, idents would happen almost immediately, adding to the ce''s reputation for being haunted.

    Eventually, everyone decided there was something seriously wrong here, and no one dared touch it again.

    A chill ran down Vinson Elliott''s spine, as if a cold breeze had swept right through him. He felt the hairs on the back of his neck stand on end. But when he turned around, the grass behind him was perfectly still.

    Was it just his imagination? Or was there really something unnatural about this ce?

    He wanted to bolt, to get as far away as possible, but all he could do was swallow his fear and look at Effie. "Effie, just say the word¡ªI''ll do whatever you say."

    Effie replied, "Let''s go in and look for Nita."

    Randell turned to Effie. "You should stay out here. We''ll go inside."

    Effie nced around at the overgrown lot, then shook her head. "No way. Standing out here alone is just as creepy."

    Randell hesitated, then nodded. "Alright, you''d better stick with us. But stay close and don''t wander off."

    "Okay."

    Thankfully, Randell and Vinson hadn''te alone. With a group of people around ¡ªand since it was still broad daylight-the ce didn''t seem quite as terrifying. Effie pulled out her phone and tried calling Nita, but all she got was a busy signal.

    With no sign of Nita anywhere, worry started gnawing at her.

    Suddenly, she thought she heard a faint ringtone somewhere nearby.

    She turned, meaning to say something to Randell and Vinson-only to realize they''d vanished. She stared, dumbfounded. Where did everyone go?

    How could they just disappear in the middle of the day? Was she really seeing ghosts?

    At that moment, a desperate cry for help cut through the silence. The voice sounded vaguely familiar.

    Effie spotted a wooden stick on the ground, grabbed it, and followed the sound.

    Suddenly, she caught sight of a pair of pale legs on the ground-clearly a woman''s. A man was pinning her down.

    The woman struggled fiercely, but the man only sneered, his voice leering and cruel: "You''re not getting away from me today!"

    Just then, he felt a sharp pain at his neck. Before he could react, dizziness overwhelmed him and he nearly passed out.

    He gritted his teeth and turned his head, only to see Effie''s beautiful face ring down at him.

    He froze, momentarily stunned by her looks, forgetting his anger. "How did I miss such a stunning woman before?"

    He''d been so focused on stalking his first victim, he hadn''t even noticed Effie arrive. Now, as if fate was handing him another prize, he thought, "Today really is my fucky day!"

    But before he could act, his vision blurred. Effie swung the stick again,nding another blow on his head.

    Pain exploded behind his eyes,

    hot

    ve

    blood pouring from his scalp.

    Darkness closed in, and he lost

    consciousnesspletely

    Effie''s hand shook from the impact, her wrist tingling with numbness as she clutched the stick.

    She nced over at Fidelia.

    The man had torn Fidelia''s shirt, leaving her shoulder and chest exposed, skin ringly white in the sunlight.

    Fidelia finally snapped out of her daze, ring furiously at Effie and shouting, "What are you staring at? Turn around!"

    Effie scoffed. "Oh, please. It''s not like I haven''t seen it before. We''re both women."

    "Effie, shut up!" Fidelia yelled, mortified.

    She tried

    clothes, but there wasn''t much

    Sn straighten her tattered doing here?" she demandove lozet r herself. "What are you t

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 Chapter 451

    Effie Bagnold nced at the unconscious man sprawled on the ground, tossed her makeshift club aside, and shrugged off her jacket. She threw it to Fidelia Etheridge. "Put this on," Effie said briskly. "Vinson Elliott and his guys are searching for you. If they spot you like this, it won''t look good."

    Fidelia felt a flicker of gratitude, though she had no intention of letting it show. She tugged the jacket on and muttered, "Don''t expect me to thank you."

    The girls were just about to slip away when Effie suddenly felt something mp around her calf. She looked down- the man she''d knocked out hade to.

    "You little witch-how dare youy a hand on me?" he spat, his eyes wild with rage, as though he might tear Effie apart at any moment.

    Fear surged through Fidelia as she saw the man lurch upright. She shrieked, backing away in terror.

    Effie shot her a look. "Don''t just stand there! Run! Go get help!"

    While the man''s focus shifted to Fidelia''s scream, Effie crouched to grab the club she''d left on the floor. But the man caught the movement andshed out, kicking her hard. Effie crashed to the ground.

    "Effie!" Fidelia screamed.

    But the fall worked in Effie''s favor-she managed to grab the club. She seized it and swung, cracking it against the man''s head once more. He''d already been woozy from the earlier blow; now, with this fresh hit, he slumped over, well and truly out cold.

    Effie wasted no time. She gripped the club tight in one hand, grabbed Fidelia''s wrist with the other, and the two of them bolted out of the abandoned school.

    At the front gates, they finally spotted Vinson Elliott, Randell Hoffman, and the others. Nita had been found, along with the rest-among them, Isabel Foster.

    Isabel''s eyes narrowed as she saw Effie leading Fidelia out, a flicker of annoyance.crossing her face before she quickly masked it with a practiced smile. She hurried over, feigning concern. "Fidelia, thank God you''re safe!¡±

    She reached for Fidelia''s hand, but Fidelia jerked away, refusing to be touched.

    Isabel''s expression crumpled in hurt. "Fidelia, why...?"

    Fidelia scoffed. "Cut the act, Isabel. I saw you earlier! I called for help and you ran away!"

    The group fell silent, all eyes snapping to Isabel in shock. If Fidelia was telling the truth, Isabel''s behavior was downright shameful.

    Isabel''s practiced innocence didn''t falter. "Fidelia, you''re mistaken, I swear! I''d

    never leave you if I knew you were in danger."

    Fidelia, na?ve as she might seem, wasn''t easy to fool. "Isabel, I''m not blind. I know what I saw."

    Isabel tried again, voice trembling with false sincerity. "I really¡ª"

    "Whatever," Fidelia snapped. "Say what you want. I don''t believe a single word

    out of your mouth, not even ama."

    Nearby, Vinson Elliott was in the middle of giving Nita a stern talking-to.

    ¡°Nita, are you out of your mind? Didn''t you realize what that creep was after?" Vinson''s frustration was palpable; he looked as though he might pop a blood vessel

    Nita''s lower lip trembled. "Of course I knew. But isn''t it just business? He likes pretty girls, and I figured could use that to negotiate. How was I supposed to know he''d actually try something?"

 Chapter 452

    The thought sent a shiver through Nita. She really had been scared out of her wits just now. Thank goodness she''d run into Vinson Elliott.

    "But why are you here?" Nita asked, her curiosity piqued.

    She narrowed her eyes at him, suspicion creeping in. ¡°Wait, don''t tell me¡ªyou''re a weirdo too, boss?"

    Vinson nearly lost it. "Nita, can you not be so dramatic? I came with Effie. She was worried something had happened to you."

    "Effie? Where is she?"

    Right at that moment, Effie spotted Nita.

    "Nita!" she called, instinctively letting go of Fidelia''s hand and running straight for her.

    In seconds, the two friends were hugging tight.

    "Nita, are you okay?" Effie pulled back a little, scanning Nita from head to toe. Only when she was sure nothing was wrong did she finally rx.

    As Effie checked on her, Nita was also sizing up Effie.

    "Effie, your face..."

    Effie brushed it off. "It''s nothing. I just tripped and fell."

    Her tone was light, almost casual, because Effie didn''t want Nita to feel guilty.

    Nita hugged her tighter, whispering, "Sorry... I made you worry again."

    Effie leaned her head on Nita''s shoulder and patted her back. ¡°Alright, alright. How about not bawling your eyes out in front of everyone?"

    Nita gave a stubborn little snort. "Let themugh if they want. I don''t care what anyone thinks."

    Fidelia looked down at her

    now-empty hand, then over at Effie and Nita, still clinging to each other. For @moment, a wave of envy washed over her.

    She realized she didn''t have a friendship like that in her life.

    She used to think she and Isabel were close, but when things got dangerous,

    Isabel had run for it, ignoring her pleas to stay calm.

    That was the moment something inside her broke.

    Sure, Isabel could im she''d gone to get help because she was scared. But she hadn''t said anything like that she''de up with a flimsy excuse and expected Fidelia to buy it.

    After all this time together, Isabel wasn''t even half the friend Effie was. Effie had gotten hurt, and she still told Fidelia to run for safety.

    In that moment, Fidelia knew Effie wasn''t pretending; she genuinely wanted her to get away.

    Just then, Isabel edged over.

    She spoke softly, ¡°Fidelia, I almost... Well, thank goodness Vinson and the others showed up when they did."

    Fidelia shot her a cold look. "You barely know those people, but you told me this would be a safe

    get-together. I actually trusted you and came along-look how that turned out."

    If only she''d listened to her mom and stayed home, enjoying a peaceful weekend. Anything would''ve been better than this disaster.

    "I...I know you like a little adventure, so I brought you along. I had no idea things would turn out like this. I''m sorry."

    "Sorry'' doesn''t fix anything. If it did, what would we need the police for? I''m not forgiving you."

    At that moment, Marcia and the others hurried over.

    "Fidelia!" Marcia rushed forward and wrapped her in a hug.

    Fidelia finally let herself break down, sobbing in her mother''s arms. "Mom, I''m so scared... I''m sorry..."

 Chapter 453

    Marcia had been fuming the whole ride over, muttering under her breath about how she was going to give Fidelia a stern talking-to the moment she saw her.

    But when Fidelia appeared in front of her, eyes wide with fear and lips trembling with hurt, Marcia''s resolve melted away. All thoughts of scolding her daughter vanished in an instant.

    She knelt down, her voice gentle as she soothed Fidelia. "Sweetheart, where''s Effie? How could she just leave you on your own and let you wander off like this? It''s dangerous-she should''ve known better."

    At the mention of Effie, Fidelia''s expression shifted.

    "No, Mom, it''s not like that," Fidelia blurted out, shaking her head.

    Marcia stared at her in disbelief. "Fidelia, what are you saying?"

    Fidelia bit her lip, hesitating, clearly struggling with her words.

    ¡°What''s going on? I thought you didn''t even like Effie. Why are you sticking up for her?"

    Marcia''s confusion showed inly on her face.

    Fidelia had intended to keep quiet-she still held a grudge against Effie, after all¡ª but after what happened today, she realized maybe Effie wasn''t as bad as she''d always believed. So, swallowing her pride, Fidelia recounted the events that had just unfolded.

    "You mean to say you really saw Isabel there, but she didn''t help you?" Marcia gasped.

    Fidelia nodded, indignant. "That''s right! I even called out to her for help-loud enough for anyone to hear. She just nced back at me and then stood there, watching as that man dragged me away!"

    Marcia''s jaw clenched, her face twisting with anger. "Unbelievable! I can''t believe Isabel would do something like that. But honestly, given where shees from, it''s hardly surprising."

    She hadn''t meant to say something so harsh, but Marcia had never approved of Isabel''s background.

    And she knew she wasn''t the only one. Even Lindy Etheridge, she suspected, felt the same way.

    That''s why, even though Isabel had once been the only woman-besides family- to be close to Lyman Etheridge, Lindy had never tried to matchmake the two of them.

    Isabel was standing a short distance away, but she''d been watching Marcia and Fidelia closely, and heard every word.

    Her hands balled into fists so tightly her nails dug into her palms.

    Yes, her background was a stain she could never wash away.

    She''d always imed to be the Foster family''s daughter, but the truth was, no one

    in the family had ever acknowledged her.

    People only tolerated her because she was close to Lyman. No one dared to

    cross her openly, but behind her back, the whispers never stopped.

    Her mother had been a housekeeper

    for the Fosters a pretty woman, nothing more. One night, after Mr. Foster had too much to drink, things got out of control. Her mother insisted she was innocent, but the gossip was merciless: folks imed she''d seduced him for money, schemed her way into his bed.

    After that night, she''d gotten pregnant¡ªand that''s how Isabel came into the world.

    She''d grown up in the Foster

    mansion, mostly ignored, left to her

    own devices. That wild

    vel

    independence led her to make

    friends with kids from the

    neighborhood-Lyman, Vinson

    Elliott, and others.

    When she first started out, she''d crafted an image for herself-a sophisticated heiress, a refined artist. But deep down, she''d always been painfully aware of her real origins, forever ashamed of where she''de from.

    That shame drove her to work harder than anyone, to be someone who could hold her head high.

    But people always found a way to bring her down. Their words could cut sharper than knives, and they never hesitated to remind her of her past, to tear open old wounds.

    Feeling Marcia''s cold, judgmental re, Isabel took a shaky breath, forced a smile, and walked over to greet her. "Marcia."

 Chapter 454

    No sooner had Isabel finished speaking than a sharp pnded on her face- Marcia''s hand, hard and merciless.

    The blow was so forceful it whipped Isabel''s head to the side, and her cheek stung as if it had been set on fire. "Isabel, how could you be so shameless?" Marcia spat. "You actually encouraged my daughter toe to such a dangerous ce? If anything had happened to her, I swear I wouldn''t let you off so easily!"

    Isabel pressed a trembling hand to her swelling cheek, unable to speak for a long moment. "I''m sorry, Marcia. I never thought it would turn out like this. I almost¡ª"

    But Marcia''s re showed no hint of pity. Isabel''s show of misery only made her more furious.

    "You deserved it!" Marcia snapped. "Someone like you ought to rot in hell. You''re filthy¡ªand no wonder my sister-inw would rather have Effie as a daughter-in-w than even look at you!"

    The words struck Isabel at her core, and fat tears rolled down her cheeks, shining like raindrops on a windowpane. She looked so pitiful it was almost hard to watch.

    "That''s enough. Let it go," Lindy interjected, stepping between them.

    She didn''t approve of what Isabel had done-far from it--but she''d watched Isabel grow up and didn''t see her as worthless as Marcia painted her to be. After all, it wasn''t Isabel''s choice to be born into her circumstances.

    If Isabel could have chosen, Lindy thought, she surely wouldn''t have chosen a life like this.

    Besides, the way Marcia said it, as if Effie was only a second-best option, left a sour taste in Lindy''s mouth.

    Pulling Effie gently to her side, Lindy looked Marcia in the eye. "You''re wrong. Effie isn''t some backup n. She''s remarkable in her own right. If anything, Lyman''s the lucky one to marry her."

    Vinson Elliott and Randell, standing off to the side, gaped in disbelief.

    "Wow, I never thought Aunt Lindy thought so highly of Effie," Vinson whispered to Randell.

    Randell nodded in agreement.

    Effie nced at Marcia, thinking wryly that she''d managed to get caught in the crossfire while doing absolutely nothing.

    Marcia, noticing Effie''s gaze, offered an awkward smile. It was true-badmouthing someone behind their back had a way of backfiring, and now she wasn''t sure how to exin herself.

    She patted her lips in mock apology. "Effie, I''m sorry. I really should learn to hold my tongue."

    Effie replied with a gentle smile, "It''s

    alright, Aunt Marcia. Most people aren''t aware of their own shorings. The fact that you

    realize it means you have plenty of room to improve. Keep it up!"

    Marcia nearly choked on her own spit. Was Effie genuinely naive, or just ying dumb? The way she had turned the words around left Marcia speechless.

    Vinson Elliott could barely keep from bursting outughing nearby.

    Brilliant, he thought. Who would''ve guessed Effie could shut Marcia down so effortlessly with just a few words?

    If Marcia lost her temper now, she''d only look childish and unreasonable. All she could do was force another awkward smile.

    Effie and Nita linked arms and left together, soon followed by the others.

    After giving her statement to the police, Isabel also prepared to leave. But to her dismay, she realized the

    room was empty-no one had

    waited for her. For the first time, she

    felt utterly abandoned.

    A cold sense of dread settled in her chest. Maybe Fidelia really did hate her now.

    That had never happened before.

    Just then, Isabel''s phone buzzed. When she saw Grace McCloud''s name on the screen, her eyes darkened.

    "Grace, what kind of rotten advice did you give me? Look how badly you''ve screwed me over!" Isabel snarled through clenched teeth.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 455

    Grace let out a coldugh. She turned to Isabel and sneered, "Isabel, you mess things up and then try to pin the me on me. Isn''t that a bit ridiculous?"

    "You..." Isabel bristled, but as much as she hated to admit it, Grace had a point.

    She just didn''t want to acknowledge it.

    Grace continued, ¡°Honestly, I''ve never met anyone as clueless as you. If you went through all the trouble to lure Fidelia out, you should''ve washed your hands of it afterward. You could''ve yed the innocent victim-just another casualty-rather than hovering around, terrified someone else would botch things."

    "If something really happened to Fidelia and you kept your nose clean, Effie would be the one in trouble right now. Think about that for a second."

    Every wordnded like a knife, and Isabel found herself almost speechless from the sting.

    "Grace, do you really think you''re meless in all this? Aren''t you afraid I''ll expose what you''ve done online?"

    Grace justughed a low, dismissive sound that made Isabel''s skin crawl.

    "What exactly have I done? If you''ve got evidence, by all means, show it to me," Grace replied coolly.

    Isabel had nothing. She knew it. She hated herself for it.

    Grace had dug this hole for her from the start, and she''d been foolish enough to walk right into it.

    "Maybe you should try to keep a lower profile these days, Isabel," Grace advised, her voice icy.

    Isabel bit back her frustration. "Shut up! Mind your own business-and go take care of your crippled husband."

    That hit a nerve. Without warning, Grace hung up.

    For a split second, Isabel savored what felt like a small victory, a sly smile tugging at her lips.

    But the satisfaction faded fast; her smile looked more like a grimace.

    Effie''s phone buzzed with yet another message from Fidelia:

    *Effie, want to go shopping with me?*

    Several simr texts had already piled up.

    Effie was growing more and more irritated by Fidelia''s relentless "friendly" messages.

    Shirley, sitting nearby, offered, "Why don''t you just block her?"

    Effie shook her head. "Can''t do that."

    She knew from experience that even ignoring people could get her used of who-knows-what. Last time, Marcia had gotten chewed out by Bancroft Etheridge, but who could say Marcia wouldn''t snap again?

    "Effie."

    She thought she was imagining things, but there was Fidelia''s voice-right there

    in the caf¨¦ near her office.

    Effie looked up. Sure enough, Fidelia was standing in front of her.

    Effie was speechless.

    She set her fork down and eyed Fidelia. "Don''t you have ss? Or are you just that bored?"

    Fidelia shrugged. "Nope, no ss this afternoon. I want to go shopping, and you''reing with me."

    Effie sighed. ¡°No, I have to work.¡±

    Fidelia pouted. "Why work? Can''t your brother take care of you?"

    In Fidelia''s mind, her own mother had been supported by her father for years, and

    no one everined.

    Effie replied, "I work because I get paid."

    "Your brother''s money couldst you a lifetime," Fidelia pointed out.

    Effie raised an eyebrow. Of course Fidelia thought that way-she''d grown up with

    a silver spoon in her mouth.

    But Effie was different. She''d learned the value of money early on.

    "It''s his money, not mine," Effie said, "What

    only at

    Learn myself is real. Money els real when it''s in your own hands."

    Fidelia pouted again. "So you really can''te shopping with me?"

    Effie shook her head. "Listen, princess, I already told you I have to work."

    Fidelia sighed dramatically. "Fine.

    Come shopping with me now, andet

    Wt''s time for your shift, )

    gab

    swoo Korvet

    can

    to work."

 Chapter 456

    "Don''t you have any friends? Why are you alwaysing to me?" Effie asked, raising an eyebrow.

    Fidelia''s eyes flickered with a hint of mischief. "I just like hanging out with you. Problem?"

    Effie just rolled her eyes. Still, she tugged Shirley along to keep Fideliapany on her shopping spree.

    As they wandered through the mall, Fidelia suddenly spotted a disy of mystery boxes and immediately dragged Effie over.

    "Guess which box has the one I want," Fidelia challenged, her eyes dancing.

    Truth was, Fidelia had already decided which figure she wanted from the series before she even walked in.

    Effie pointed toward the counter. "They''ve got the whole set up there already-just twenty bucks extra. Why not just buy the one you want?"

    Fidelia shot Effie a look, half exasperated, half amused. ¡°Because opening a mystery box is a whole different experience. If I get it myself, it''ll make me so much happier."

    Shirley nodded in agreement. "I get that. It''s about the thrill."

    Fidelia turned to Effie, curious. "Hey, seriously-are you really just in your twenties? Howe you don''t get the appeal of these things?"

    Effie shrugged. "It''s not that I''m not interested. Maybe I just haven''t felt the thrill yet."

    She thought to herself, When would I ever have had the spare cash or time for this kind of thing? But she kept that to herself.

    Fidelia didn''t hesitate; she grabbed Effie and bought the entire set of mystery boxes.

    "Come on, let''s open them together!" Fidelia grinned at Effie.

    Shirley watched with envy. Of course, she thought, only someone as loaded as Fidelia would buy the whole set without a second thought.

    Effie smirked. "That''s how capitalism works-people like you are just waiting to be taken advantage of."

    Fidelia huffed, clearly annoyed, and shot Effie a re. "Effie, if you can''t say anything nice, maybe just don''t say anything at all."

    Effie grinned, unfazed. "No way. My mouth, my rules. If you don''t like it, you don''t have to hang out with me."

    Fidelia snorted. "Your words are poisonous-if my brother ever kissed you, he''d probably drop dead."

    A faint blush crept up Effie''s cheeks. "You''re such a kid..."

    "I''m eighteen, thank you very much. Legally an adult," Fidelia shot back, chin lifted.

    Effie couldn''t help thinking that Fidelia acted childish¡ªand, honestly, she was. She never let anything go, always waiting for a chance to get back at her.

    Just then, Effie heard a familiar voice. She turned and saw Suzan Bagnold strolling into the shop, hand-in-hand with a little girl.

    The girl immediately took a liking to the same mystery box series.

    Suzan, ever generous, was ready to buy the whole collection for her.

    But the little girl''s eyes turned cold, her tone dripping with disdain. "SO generous, but it''s not even your ey-it''s just my dad''s card you''re using."

    The words barely left her mouth before everyone nearby started ncing at

    Suzan, suspicion in their eyes.

    With the girl''s contemptuous tone, it was easy for people to assume Suzan was being kept by the girl''s father.

    Suzan realized the

    misunderstanding right away and quickly tried to rify. "Teresa, your dad''s my uncle. He just likes to spoil me, that''s all. But honestly, I could buy these myself. I just wanted to give you a treat."

    Teresa Harper, dropping her usual sweet act she put on for Lionel Harper didn''t give Suzan an inch. "If you don''t care about it, then don''t use my dad''s credit card."

    Suzan''s smile faltered, awkwardness coloring her cheeks.

 Chapter 457

    Suzan thought bitterly, *If it weren''t for Lionel''s money, why would I bother going through all this trouble to ingratiate myself with Teresa, that scheming little brat?*

    To everyone else, Teresa yed the part of the sweet, innocent daughter-wide- eyed and obedient whenever her parents were around. But the moment she was alone with Suzan, her whole demeanor shifted. Suddenly, she became sharp- tongued and relentless, never missing a chance to throw out a cutting remark.

    The worst part was, as harsh as Teresa''s words were, they weren''t exactly lies. Suzan couldn''t run tattling to Teresa''s parents; no one would ever believe their darling girl could act this way. Instead, they''d probably just assume Suzan had provoked her.

    For now, Suzan reminded herself, the most important thing was to keep Lionel on her side and y the victim whenever possible-anything to squeeze a bit more out of him.

    Forcing a smile, she asked, "So, Teresa, what do you think we should do?"

    Teresa snorted. "How can you be so clueless? You''ve got Dad''s credit card, so just pay for everything and stop making me spell it out for you."

    Suzan had never been humiliated like this before; she wanted nothing more than to p Teresa right then and there. *Why couldn''t she have just said that from the start, instead of going out of her way to mock me?*

    Suddenly, Teresa''s attention was caught by a set of plush toys on the counter. She perked up. "Wait, I want that whole set, too."

    Without hesitation, Suzan nodded. "Of course, of course."

    Effie, watching from the side, was surprised to see Suzan-usually so arrogant and bossy-brought down a peg like this. But it seemed Teresa was the only one who could make her squirm.

    The moment Suzan turned to the store clerk, though, it was like flicking a switch. Her expression hardened, her voice sharp. "Are you deaf? Get us that set too."

    The clerk, clearly annoyed, struggled to keep herposure. "I''m sorry, ma''am, but those mystery boxes are currently sold out. They''re one of our most popr items."

    "What? Sold out? Then why are they still on disy?" Suzan snapped.

    Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed a set of the boxes sitting right there on the counter. "Then what''s this? There''s still some here!"

    "Sorry, those have already been purchased by another customer," the clerk replied.

    "Paid for?" Suzan pressed skeptically.

    Normally, people who''d already paid would have taken their things and left. Why were these still sitting out?

    Just then, Fidelia stepped forward. "Yes, I''ve paid. I''m taking these now."

    "Of course, ma''am," the clerk said politely.

    But Suzan stormed over, mmed her hand down on the bag, and blocked Fidelia from leaving. "I was here first. You only paid after I came in, so it doesn''t count. I''ll give you double what you paid for them."

    Fidelia stared at Suzan like she''d lost her mind, clutching the bag tightly. "Are you serious? Why would I sell them to you?"

    "Triple. I''ll pay three times as much," Suzan insisted.

    But Fidelia had no interest in Suzan''s money. "I''m not hurting for cash, thanks."

    "Fine, ten times the price! I doubt anyone would turn that down."

    "Not for sale!"

    Suzan reached out, grabbing for the bag. Fidelia was caught off guard by her nerve-if throwing money around didn''t work, Suzan was just going to snatch it instead.

    Reacting quickly, Fidelia gripped the other end of the bag. The two of them tugged back and forth, the paper creasing and crumpling, on the verge of tearing it to pieces right there at the counter.

 Chapter 458

    Effie said, "Fidelia, not even for ten times the price?"

    Fidelia shook her head. "Sometimes you have to stand your ground. I''m not selling."

    Effie smirked. "Fair enough. You can''t put a price on what you truly love. I doubt anyone would really pay twenty times more for this stuff anyway. It''s not like she''s actually that rich."

    At this, Suzan''s face fell. She bristled.

    "Effie, do you think I''m broke like you? Money isn''t an issue for me."

    Effie grinned. "Oh please, I heard your little niece just now. You''re using your uncle''s credit card, not your own."

    Suzan''s eyes flickered. She bit her lip and snapped, "What''s it to you?"

    "Fine. Twenty times the price. Are you selling or not?" Suzan said, refusing to back down.

    Effie shrugged. "Sure, why not?"

    "No way!" Fidelia red at Effie, jaw clenched in anger.

    She couldn''t believe Effie-if she wasn''t going to help her, she could at least not make things worse.

    Effie leaned in and whispered, "Let her have it. We''ll get her back for this."

    A spark of excitement flickered in Fidelia''s eyes. She met Effie''s gaze and instantly understood what she meant.

    Fidelia turned to Suzan, raising an eyebrow. "Effie, are you serious? Just because she says twenty times, you believe she can actually pay? I''ll believe it when I see it."

    "Oh, I can pay!" Suzan snapped. She hated being underestimated more than anything.

    She pulled out her phone. "Show me your payment code."

    Fidelia was ready. She whipped out her phone and held up the payment screen.

    Suzan hesitated for a split second. That was way too fast. Was this a trick?

    Fidelia smirked. "What''s wrong? Afraid to pay? Can''t afford it? If not, I''m leaving."

    "Suzan!" Teresa shot her a sharp look.

    Suzan faltered. Honestly, she hadn''t expected Fidelia to actually go through with it. Her own impulsiveness had gotten the better of her But with Teresa ring at her, she had no choice but to hand over the money.

    A cheerful chime sounded-payment sessful.

    Fidelia waved her phone in Suzan''s face with a triumphant smile. "Well, thank

    you. Appreciate your generosity."

    Just then, Shirley came in from

    outside. ¡°Hey, I found the same surprise boxes at the shop across the street. They had loads. I picked one up right away."  fo

    Fidelia grinned. "Thanks! What do you want to drink? My treat.¡±

    "I won''t say no to that."

    "Hold it!" Suzan cried, seeing Effie and the others about to leave. Suddenly, the surprise box in her hand felt scorching hot.

    How could she have been so stupid? All because of her pride, she''d just paid a ridiculous price for something worthless.

    "Hey! Money for goods. Once it''s in my ount, there''s no refunds," Fidelia told her firmly.

    Suzan knew there was no way she''d get her money back.

    She let out a cold, bitterugh. "Just you wait."

    Suzan stormed off with Teresa, who muttered under her breath, "Idiot."

    Suzan''s frustration boiled over. She shouted in anger as they disappeared down the corridor.

    Fidelia actually felt a rush of satisfaction. Effie''s little n had really worked.

    She turned to Effie, grinning. "Be honest, did you know all along she''d fall for it?¡±

    Effie shrugged, expressionless as ever. "More or less."

    Fidelia couldn''t help butugh. She used to find Effie''s calm, almost emotionless demeanor annoying, but after spending more time together, she realized-Effie was actually a lot of fun.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!