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-in-law.
“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 to come 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 or later.
It was eating her up inside—especially since Mitchell had been ignoring her lately. 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 relaxed and cheerful, when a sudden flurry of excitement erupted by the ballroom doors.
Effie glanced 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’ve come 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 to come 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’d come especially for her, worried she might not feel comfortable 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.