Ex Cried as I Wed a Tycoon novel 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 place.

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—people assumed she'd landed 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 whole company 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 accepted so quickly that he was momentarily speechless.

He smiled—a genuine, unguarded smile.

He was laughing 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.

With that, she turned on her heel and stalked off.

Shirley watched Suzan with curiosity. Despite being decked out in designer labels, Suzan made sure every logo was visible, as if she wanted the whole world to know—she looked more like a walking Christmas tree than a fashion icon. All those clashing elements just didn't work.

“Who is she?” Shirley asked.

Effie's voice was flat. “Just some shameless nobody.”

Shirley couldn't help but crack a smile. The description fit perfectly, she thought.

Effie might come 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 her composure 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?”