Escape from Mr. Whitman (Emma and Theodore) novel Chapter 325

Theodore shook hands mechanically, forcing a bitter smile.

Now, it seemed like anyone could seize an opportunity—anyone except him, the one who’d been kicked out of the partnership.

“Hey, man, look out for your buddy in the future, will you? If you’re feasting, just toss me a few scraps. I’ll be satisfied with the leftovers,” a man said, clapping Theodore on the shoulder.

The touch wasn’t even hard, but Theodore felt as if each pat was about to shatter his chest.

Larson finished his welcoming speech, encouraging everyone to eat, drink, and enjoy themselves, then led Emma down from the stage.

Suddenly, they were no longer those overlooked “kids from some family.” People surged toward them, eager to get close, surrounding them in the middle of the hall.

Without even trying, they’d become the center of attention.

Elsewhere, Latham also drew his own crowd.

Some guests weren’t interested in the buzz, just here for the food, wine, and to mingle; they formed their own little clusters.

But around Theodore and his group, the space emptied out fast.

Only a few small-time business owners, oblivious to the shifting tide and still hoping to suck up to Theodore, lingered nearby.

Cathie let out a dry chuckle. “Let’s go. What’s left to see? Time to call it a night—this is over.”

Cecilia’s face was streaked with tears. “That’s not true, you’re making things up—”

“Shut up!” Cathie barked at her.

“Who do you think you’re yelling at? Have you no shame?” Jared snapped, forgetting all about the fact that Cathie was Hanley’s wife. Hanley was just a coward who let his wife walk all over him.

Cathie laughed coldly. “You’re worried about shame? After tonight, you still care about saving face? Theodore, you torched this third deal all by yourself. Aren’t you Mr. Rossi’s brother-in-law? If you’d treated Emma half-decently, would this deal have slipped away? And you’re still blaming her for your failures? You ought to know who’s really bringing you down.”

Cecilia’s eyes flashed as she yelled, “Who are you talking about?”

Cathie shrugged. “To borrow a word from Mr. Rossi—two-faced backstabbers! If the shoe fits, wear it!” She didn’t care who she offended as she flung the insult at both Theodore and Cecilia.