Escape from Mr. Whitman (Emma and Theodore) novel Chapter 159

Dr. Fletcher sighed, lost in thought for a long moment. “Ms. Bennett, I can’t help but feel it’s a shame. We’ve seen patients make a full recovery–and in those first few days, your progress was even better than some of our biggest successes. As your doctor, I’d hate to see you give up now. Here’s what I can do: I’ll send you the rehab training videos, and I can also share the techniques and theory behind Meridian Therapy with you. If you come across a skilled acupuncturist, maybe you can ask them to try these methods. Rehabilitation always comes with risks, but you have a dance background… If possible, find an experienced physical therapist to help with your training, and be sure you’re always protected during the exercises.”

Emma didn’t really believe her foot would ever fully recover, but she was still touched by how much Dr. Fletcher cared. She hesitated, then asked, “Dr. Fletcher, is it okay to share your acupuncture techniques with others? You don’t mind?”

He smiled, typing away on his keyboard. “Medicine is about healing people. We’re meant to learn from each other. We actually travel and give talks about these methods–there are others who practice them now, not just us.”

“Alright. Thank you so much.”

Emma left Dr. Fletcher’s office feeling as if she’d sprouted wings. She could barely contain her excitement–she’d be heading back to her grandmother’s house soon, and her passport would finally be within

reach.

But as soon as she entered the lobby, she spotted Cecilia sitting in the waiting area.

Cecilia? Here for a follow–up?

Emma’s heart skipped a beat. She hurried back to Dr. Fletcher’s office and pleaded with him not to mention anything she’d just said to Theodore.

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Dr. Fletcher gave her a strange look but nodded in agreement.

When Emma returned to the waiting room, Theodore stepped out and called, “Cici, it’s your turn. Come on in.”

Just as he finished, he caught sight of Emma.

His expression shifted.

Emma gave him a bright, unbothered smile. “Hey there, Mr. Whitman.”

“What are you doing here? You’ve been discharged?” His tone made it clear he wasn’t pleased.

“Yup. Nice to see you.” She kept smiling..

His face darkened. “You couldn’t tell me you were leaving?”

Emma’s grin widened. “I didn’t want to bother you. Anyway, I’ll get out of your way now.”

“Wait.” Theodore called after her.

She raised an eyebrow. Did he actually have something else to say? “What, you planning to give me a ride home?”

“We’ll go together,” he said.

“That’s not necessary.” She laughed, “Sweetheart, we’re not headed the

same way.”

Very soon, we’ll be going our separate ways for good–six days and

counting.

His expression grew stormy. “If you’re not going home, where are you going?”

“Don’t be upset, Theo!” Cecilia jumped in nervously, glancing between them. “Emma, please don’t be mad at Theo. You two don’t need to argue. Theo’s just here with me for my checkup. My last treatment went really well, so I’m back to get another prescription.”

Theodore added, “Cici’s parents are out of town–she’s here all alone. I’m

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her best friend. If I didn’t come with her, who would?”

Emma nodded. “Makes sense. Well, then, you two enjoy your appointment. Wishing you lots of little ones soon!”

Theodore’s brow furrowed. “What are you talking about?”

Emma grinned. “What, am I wrong to wish Cici lots of kids? Or should I wish you two infertility instead?”

“You-” Theodore was clearly annoyed, but he held his tongue.

Cecilia quickly tried to soothe him, patting his chest. “Theo, don’t be mad. Emma didn’t mean anything by it. Actually, you two have been married so long without kids–maybe Emma should get checked out, too?”

Then she turned to Emma, all innocence. “Emma, you should get a checkup too! Maybe you and Theo will have a baby soon!”

What a performance.

Emma didn’t believe for a second that Cecilia genuinely wanted her and Theodore to have a child.

“I found that medicated oil really effective. My whole abdomen felt warm and comfortable afterward, didn’t it, Theo?” Cecilia even lifted her chin, seeking his agreement.

So this was what she was waiting here for–to show off that Theodore had been giving her abdominal massages?

Emma just shook her head with a smile. “No need for me to get checked. Besides, infertility isn’t always the woman’s problem. I’d suggest Theodore get himself looked at. This wellness center probably has a men’s health department, right?”

Theodore’s face turned an interesting shade of green.

“Oh, don’t be like that.” Emma smiled, adopting a tone of faux concern. “I know men have their pride and never want to admit there’s a problem, but if something’s wrong, it’s better to address it head–on, don’t you think?”

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She said it in her normal voice, loud enough for everyone in the waiting room to hear. Several people glanced over at Theodore, curiosity written all over their faces.

No matter how much he scowled or how dark his expression became, Theodore couldn’t escape the weight of so many prying eyes. He gritted his teeth and muttered, “Emma, stop talking nonsense.”

“I’m just trying to help. How is that nonsense? I hope you get to be a dad soon, really!” Emma waved cheerfully. “I won’t keep you from your appointment. Bye!”

ALA