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 glances, left in the wake of his abrupt exit.
Meanwhile, after Effie and Nita parted ways, Effie received a call from Lyman.
She’d planned 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 surprise later.
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 glances, 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, how come 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 the ladies 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, the latest 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 popular, 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 impeccable taste.
A long tea table stood at the center, adorned with every kind of teapot and cup imaginable-delicate porcelain, classic 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-in-law to show off, and
she wasn’t about to miss the opportunity.
Today, Lindy absolutely glowed with pride.