Escape from Mr. Whitman (Emma and Theodore) novel Chapter 29

He looked as though he’d just stepped out of the banquet hall’s restroom, a strange expression flickering in his eyes as he regarded Theodore and Cecilia.

Both Theodore and Cecilia visibly stiffened, but especially Theodore. He’d always been a campus star, the charismatic president of the student council since college–confident, accomplished, never once caught off guard like this.

Still, the discomfort lasted only a split second. Theodore quickly regained his composure, managing a graceful smile. “Yes, that’s right. For the past five years, my wife has rarely gone out, focusing on her physical therapy. Only recently has there been some improvement, but she’s still very sensitive–always afraid of being stared at. It took everything I had to convince her to come tonight. I kept reassuring her that Mr. Warren’s guests are all thoughtful people and would never make her feel uncomfortable.”

Perfectly phrased. The implication was clear: if Sebastian pressed the topic any further, he’d be crossing a line–displaying the very lack of tact Theodore claimed wouldn’t be found here.

But Theodore, you do realize this is offensive, don’t you? Where was your sense of propriety when your friends ridiculed me? What about when Jared mimicked the way I walked–what did you do then?

Double standards–humans always seem to have them, and yours are astonishing.

Sebastian only smiled, clearly unfazed by Theodore’s subtle warning. Instead, he executed a bow so elegant it could only come from someone trained in dance.

“I do apologize, Mr. Whitman,” Sebastian said, his tone sincere. “I didn’t mean any offense. I’m genuinely asking for advice. I have a friend–injured as well, for five years now. She hasn’t been as fortunate as Mrs. Whitman and hasn’t made a full recovery. She’s a dancer. When her foot was hurt, it was like losing half her life. I desperately want to help her. If you know any excellent doctors, could you please recommend

one?”

Sebastian’s words prompted Ms. Brown to chime in, “That’s right, Mr. Whitman, Mrs. Whitman. Please, don’t misunderstand us; we mean no disrespect. We deeply admire anyone who’s found the courage to rise above their circumstances–Mrs. Whitman especially. It’s just, as Remington said, we have a friend in a similar situation and would love to help her find treatment.”

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Chapter 29

“Oh… well…” Even Theodore, usually so quick–witted, found himself at a loss for a

credible doctor’s name.

Cecilia, ever resourceful, jumped in. “I was treated abroad,” she said quickly.

She’d assumed that dropping the word “abroad” would end the conversation, but Sebastian pressed on. “Abroad? That’s no trouble at all. We tour all over the world for performances–no country is too far if it means helping our friend recover.”

Cecilia was stunned. Was he really this persistent?

Under their expectant gazes, Cecilia shot Theodore a desperate look, silently pleading for help.

With no other option, Theodore scribbled a random Swiss hospital name on a slip of paper and handed it to Sebastian, still smiling. “It was this place. But every injury is different. My wife began treatment right after her accident. If your friend’s injury is several years old, the results may not be as promising.” All he cared about was getting through tonight; whatever happened after, he’d deal with later.

“Thank you. We’ll try anything,” Sebastian replied with a warm smile, then waved toward the doors. “Emma, you’re here.”

Emma was already approaching. Under everyone’s gaze–especially Theodore’s and Cecilia’s–she stepped into the center of the banquet hall, her gait unsteady.

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