Ex Cried as I Wed a Tycoon novel 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 protégé, Isabel decided to force herself to play 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 as composed, “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—please feel free to find another designer.”

Isabel’s face darkened instantly.

What was this woman playing at?

Was she turning down her commission?

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 her composure.

“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.

Effie let out a quiet sigh of relief, then went to explain 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’t come in good faith—she 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 glanced up at him and asked, “Luther, is it true you’re seeing someone?”