Escape from Mr. Whitman (Emma and Theodore) novel Chapter 319

“Do you really think bragging like that gets you anywhere? If Young Rossi actually liked her, would she even be back here?” Emma Bennett was genuinely baffled. What was the point of all this self-aggrandizing nonsense? Was it just to save face?

“Of course there’s a reason,” Larson Bennett said quietly next to her.

Emma had always come from an arts background; the intricacies of business were a mystery to her.

Nita chimed in, her tone chilly. “Everything is about appearances out there. If she has the nerve to talk herself up, there will always be someone gullible enough to believe it. Even if it’s only half-believed, all those small companies will fall over themselves to curry favor. She might not get much out of it, but a few designer bags, some perfume? That’s still something. And when it all falls through, no one’s going to ask her to give any of it back.”

Was that really how it worked?

Emma glanced at Larson and saw the faint smile tugging at his lips. She realized Nita was absolutely right.

Cathie let out a derisive snort, eyeing the group returning with their drinks. “Some people really have no shame at all.”

Cecilia Chambers and her friends paraded past, drinks in hand, and stopped deliberately in front of Emma’s group.

“Emma,” Cecilia said, raising her glass with a flourish, “let me introduce you—these are all business partners from Theo’s firm. And this is Theo’s wife, Emma.”

The group offered a chorus of “Nice to meet you,” but their eyes dropped straight to Emma’s feet, followed by muffled giggles.

Emma felt her brother’s hand settle protectively on her shoulder; he was ready to step in for her. She tugged at his sleeve, signaling him not to make a scene.

That’s when Theodore Whitman arrived.

Nita squeezed Emma’s hand, a silent message: Don’t worry, I’m here.

But Cecilia just laughed—a high, mocking sound. “You? And who do you think you are? And you—”

She turned her gaze directly on Larson.

“Who are you, really? If you hadn’t snuck in on Theo’s invitation, you wouldn’t even be allowed past the door. Let me give you some advice: try to keep a low profile. This isn’t some town hall meeting back in whatever village you crawled out of. Watch yourself, or security will throw you out.”

“Security, throw me out?” Larson’s eyes glinted icily from behind his glasses.

Cecilia, too caught up in her own triumph, missed the warning. She laughed louder. “What else do you expect? Emma, honestly, this sort of event isn’t for just anyone. Ever heard of class? Hanging around with people like that just embarrasses yourself in front of important people. You’re making Young Rossi look bad! Do you think someone like Young Rossi would waste their time with just anyone?”