Escape from Mr. Whitman (Emma and Theodore) novel Chapter 308

“Yeah.” Ellis grabbed a few pairs. “They’re all sold out. She used to refuse every customer who wanted to buy them, but suddenly she agreed this time. There’s a whole line of people waiting to place orders, but I told them no—the mysterious designer isn’t taking commissions. Anyway, I’ll settle the payment for the cufflinks with her while I’m here.”

Larson stared at the exquisite amethyst cufflinks in his hand, his gaze growing darker.

Inside, Emma had no idea what was happening outside. She stepped out in a champagne-colored gown, her assistant at her elbow.

“How do I look, big brother?” Emma asked, her voice a little uncertain as she walked.

It was a color she’d always loved—soft, gentle, graceful.

“You look beautiful,” Larson replied, looking his sister up and down. “But… it’s still not what I had in mind.”

He shot Ellis a pointed look.

“She needs to be the star of the night!” Ellis told the assistant. “Get out that vintage red gown.”

The moment they brought out the dress, Emma was stunned.

The red was breathtaking.

Not that garish, flashy red—this was deeper, richer, elegant. The vintage cut oozed nobility and grace, with a daring neckline that made Emma imagine how radiant she’d look with a ruby necklace draped around her neck.

Larson nodded, finally satisfied.

He was about to say, “Go try it on,” when a voice rang out from the doorway.

“Oh wow, that dress is gorgeous! Nita, do you think I should buy it?”

Someone walked in, making a beeline for the gown.

Emma refused, but Nita pressed a chocolate bar into her hand without a word. The wrapper was custom—on it, in neat handwriting: *Wishing you happiness every day.*

From then on, they’d occasionally run into each other at Ellis’s boutique. They’d exchange a nod, pick up their clothes, and leave. Each time, Nita would offer her a gentle smile.

Just a smile. But it was one of the few small kindnesses Emma had received in her five-year marriage.

So she never disliked Nita.

But why was Nita shopping with Cecilia?

Right now, Emma returned Nita’s gentle smile, mirroring the kindness she’d once received.

Cecilia, meanwhile, turned to the assistant, “I’d like to try on that dress. Could you help me? Thank you.”