Chapter 140
“I agreed,” Theodore said evenly. “We’ll hire the best defense attorneys for Cici. They’ll get her charges reduced as much as possible, but erasing every trace–well, that’s just not realistic.”
Jared’s frustration boiled over. “Cici is perfect. How can we let even the smallest stain touch her record? Fines are one thing, but detention? Absolutely not! She’d never survive in there!”
“That’s exactly right. Emma’s three conditions aren’t difficult. As long as it’s about money, it’s never a problem.” Now that Theodore had settled the biggest issue, he looked more relaxed than he had in days.
“But you actually agreed not to marry Cici!” Jared shot a glance at Cecilia, whose tear–streaked, trembling face made his heart ache.
Theodore smiled faintly. “I don’t intend to marry anyone, ever again.”
What did that mean?
Jared frowned, puzzling it over before finally getting it. He scurried over and whispered to Cecilia, “Theo said he won’t marry anyone, not just you. So what are you so worried about? You’re still the only one in his life.”
But Cecilia’s anxious frown didn’t fade.
It sounded reassuring, but only marriage gave her real security. Today, Emma could strut around waving her marriage certificate, threatening to take back everything Theodore had given away. If Cecilia could never share that legal bond with him, where would her confidence come from? If she ever had children, they’d always be illegitimate!
“What are you still fretting about?” Jared pressed.
Cecília couldn’t say what was truly on her mind, so she mumbled, “I’ve left the company. What am I going to do without any income?”
Jared chuckled. “Why are you worried about that? You think Theo can’t support you? Besides, what exactly do you do at work, anyway? You’ve been with the company so long, but when have you actually worked?
1/2
09.05
You’re always either fixing your makeup, online shopping, or watching livestreams.”
“You-” Cecilia was infuriated. Why couldn’t he understand anything?
“Relax! With Theo around, you’ll never have to worry. He’ll figure
something out for you!”
Theodore walked over, glancing at the pair. “What are you two whispering about?”
Jared grinned. “Cici’s worried about her future. I told her, with the two of us sharing the pot, there’s no way we’d let her go hungry. Right, Theo?”
Theodore gave a soft laugh. “Of course.”
“Let’s go! Time to eat. Let’s get Hanley too!” Jared called out, practically bouncing with energy.
Cecilia glared at Jared’s retreating back, fuming with nowhere to vent: Who wants a seat at your dinner table? She wanted wealth, respect–she wanted to be Mrs. Theodore! What good was a bowl of soup?
“What’s wrong? Why are you giving Jared that look? Did he upset you?” Theodore’s voice was gentle, his eyes full of warmth.
She quickly looked away, forcing a pitiful and timid expression. “It’s nothing. I just feel guilty for causing you so much trouble.”
“Trouble?” Theodore’s tone was soft. “We all adore you. How could you ever be a burden?”
“Come on! Time to celebrate–our little princess Cici is safe and sound!” Jared and Hanley caught up, both looking nothing like the stern executives they were supposed to be. “Boss, you’re buying, right?”
“Of course,” Theodore replied with a helpless smile.
When wasn’t he picking up the check? He’d always been the leader of
their group, ever since college. Over the years, they’d become closer than family–he’d always been the one to look out for everyone.
2/3
09.05
Chapter 140
Together, they headed toward their favorite restaurant, the one where they always gathered. Meanwhile, Emma, who’d originally planned to visit her grandmother, decided to put it off until all this chaos was sorted. After a Meridian Therapy session and some rehab, she simply went home.

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Escape from Mr. Whitman (Emma and Theodore)