Escape from Mr. Whitman (Emma and Theodore) novel Chapter 170

“That’s hardly a small problem! Haven’t you heard the saying, ‘ten fingers, one heart’?” Grandma cradled Emma’s hand, her worry written all over her face.

“It really is just a scratch.” Emma smiled, flexing her fingers. “Compared to the pain from the accident years ago, this is nothing.”

But Theodore’s expression had grown dark.

Emma could guess what he was thinking. That car crash was a shadow from his past, even now a source of pain and regret. Because of it, he’d ended up trading marriage for atonement—a decision that had brought them both so much misery.

She managed another smile. It’s alright, she thought. Soon, all of this will be behind us.

Without a word, Theodore drove Emma to the nearest hospital. After her wounds were treated and bandaged, he turned to Grandma. “Why don’t you wait at home for a while? I’ll take care of a few things with Emma, and later, we’ll come pick you up together.”

“No, no,” Grandma said quickly. “I just wanted to see Emmie’s hand taken care of. Now that she’s patched up, I’ll head back myself. You two go handle your business. And don’t worry, I know how to deal with that good-for-nothing son of mine.”

“That works,” Theodore replied. “I’ll go talk to the community leader. By the way, Grandma, do you know why your son-in-law suddenly wants this house?”

Grandma shook her head.

Theodore explained, “He must have heard—our village has been targeted for a new tourist development. All the houses, including ours, are going to be bought out.”

“No wonder…” Grandma’s eyes widened in realization.

“Grandma, who actually owns this house now?” Theodore asked.

She sighed. “Back then, that scoundrel didn’t want anything to do with this place—said a country house was worthless. He took all the savings your grandfather left, didn’t leave us a penny, and declared the house would go to your aunt Emma.”

“Was there a will?” Theodore pressed.

Grandma shook her head again. “No such thing—we didn’t know about that kind of stuff back then.”

“I understand,” Theodore said reassuringly. “Don’t worry, Grandma. I’ll handle it.”

He drove her home. Their driver was waiting in the yard, lounging in a rocker under the shade, sipping a cup of tea with the gate locked behind him.

Julian, unwilling to leave, was stationed just outside, trying to bargain with the driver in a mix of flattery and desperation.

Theodore couldn’t help but chuckle at the sight. “You’re making yourself comfortable, aren’t you?”

The driver looked sheepish. “Sorry, Mr. Whitman…”

“It’s fine. Drink all you want. If you need anything else, just ask.” Theodore helped Grandma inside.

Julian tried to follow, but Theodore glanced back over his shoulder.

Julian put on his best ingratiating smile. “Son-in-law…”

With a swift motion, Theodore shut the door in his face.

Emma did a quick calculation. The amount seemed fair.

“To show my good faith, I’ll take you there right now. The house has a new owner already, and they’re about to start remodeling.” Theodore started the car. “Once you’ve seen it, I hope you’ll keep your promise and come with me to the police station.”

Emma’s hand was still wrapped in gauze, the wound on her head only just beginning to heal.

He must have noticed. He sighed heavily. “I know, it’s not exactly compassionate to rush you at a time like this. But it has to be done. Cici’s already done her part, but with you stalling, she’s anxious too.”

Emma twisted her wrist, the bright white bandage on her finger gleaming in the sunlight.

People really are unpredictable, she thought. One minute he’s human, the next he’s made of stone.

“Will you promise me?” he pressed, refusing to let it go.

Emma sighed. “Don’t worry. It’s just a matter of a few days.”

Before she left, she would definitely finish what he’d asked.

“A few days? What’s that supposed to mean?” Theodore frowned, clearly misunderstanding her.

She smiled slightly; he’d gotten it all wrong.

“Mrs. Whitman!” he suddenly hit the brakes. “You’re not playing games with me, are you? I’ve bent over backwards following your instructions—don’t tell me you’re going to back out now. Is this all just a test?”