Escape from Mr. Whitman (Emma and Theodore) novel Chapter 65

She rarely went out in the past. Most of the time, she barely needed a handful of clothes for herself; nearly everything she bought was for Theodore.

A wry smile tugged at her lips as she quietly asked the sales associate for women’s

formalwear.

Only then did the associate realize the mistake and quickly apologized, rushing to show her the women’s selection.

She picked out a champagne–colored dress, a pair of simple flats, and a small clutch. After paying, she asked the associate to have everything delivered straight to her hotel.

No sooner had she finished than Theodore called..

She suddenly felt exhausted just seeing his name flash on the screen. Not only did she decline his call, but she blocked his number altogether.

An hour later, her dress arrived. She tried it on–perfect fit. She took a shower, crawled into bed, and let her mind drift.

She hadn’t brought her laptop, but before sleep claimed her, she silently recited in her mind: Day 22 of leaving Theodore. Blocked his number. The world is finally quiet.

On the twenty–first day–her second morning away–she woke up to a new email.

It was from her university; her 1-20 had arrived. She could finally schedule her student visa interview.

Since she was still waiting on her performance tour visa, she decided to book her appointment for a later date, and in Cresthaven, so she’d have enough time to get her documents ready after returning home.

Today, the Remington family was hosting a grand dinner party. Everyone would be busy, so she decided to handle her own acupuncture appointment. When Sebastian called to check on her, she fibbed, saying she’d already been and was back at the hotel. She told him they’d just see each other at the party that evening, insisting he didn’t need to pick her up–she could get there on her own.

That afternoon, she returned to her hotel for a nap. By the time she woke up, it was time to get ready for the event.

She had no trouble doing her own hair and makeup, thankfully–she’d brought just

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Chapter 65

enough cosmetics for a simple look. Once she changed into her dress and finished her makeup, Sebastian called again, offering to pick her up.

She didn’t want to trouble Sebastian any further, so she quickly told him she was already on her way. She’d call when she arrived at the venue and he could meet her

out front.

Truthfully, she really was about to leave.

Sebastian reluctantly agreed, and she grabbed her clutch and headed out.

The Remingtons‘ events were always extravagant. Back when she was a student, she’d walked past their estate and marveled at the gold and glass, the sheer opulence of it all. Tonight, there was no getting in without an invitation.

What she didn’t expect was to run into Cecilia.

Cecilia was waiting at the top of the steps. As Emma climbed up, they came face–to–face.

Theodore wasn’t here this time, so Cecilia dropped the act. She looked Emma up and down, lips curling into a sneer. “You put on that dress, but you still look like you don’t belong. What are you even doing here?”

“Who’s that, Cici?” Jared, Theodore’s ever–loyal sidekick, sauntered over at the sound

of voices.

As soon as Jared appeared, Cecilia’s tone shifted to syrupy sweetness. “Emma, are you here to mess things up for Theo again? You really should go home. He couldn’t land the deal with Mr. Warren last time, and he’s lost so much weight over it. He’s finally got a shot with the Grants tonight–can’t you just let him be?”

Emma ignored her, glancing down to text Sebastian that she’d arrived.

“Texting Theo again?” Cecilia cooed, feigning concern. “Why bother? Even if Theo lets you in, you’ll just embarrass him. Please, go home.”

Jared scoffed, “Some people just don’t know when they’ve got it good. Theo gives you everything–nice home, status–and you still can’t behave. If you want to make a fool of yourself, fine, but don’t ruin Theo’s career. Or is it just because you’re spending his money anyway?”

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