Escape from Mr. Whitman (Emma and Theodore) novel Chapter 350

Theodore didn’t hesitate for a second. “Hanley, what are you talking about? When did I ever say I planned to marry Cici? She just got back, and I never even considered marrying her.”

Hanley stared at him, dumbfounded. “Wasn’t that just because you were with Emma before? Now you’re divorced—don’t you even want to think about Cici?”

Theodore gave a wry smile. “Hanley, Cici and I are ancient history. What’s going through your head?”

“Then why are you so nice to her?” Hanley was practically stammering.

Theodore shot him a look. “And I’m not nice to you? Or to Jared?”

“That’s… not the same, is it?” Hanley struggled to find the words.

“What’s different about it? You two are my closest friends. Besides, both of you are already reaping the company’s success. Back when Cici used to hang out with us, we were just getting started—she didn’t see any of the good stuff. She’s had it rough abroad, so isn’t it natural to look out for her a little now that she’s back? She’s always been like a kid sister to us. And don’t forget, she and I have that whole volunteer thing from way back—you all know that.”

“Still…” Hanley trailed off, unable to put his feeling into words.

“Of course it’s not the same!” A sharp voice exploded behind them—Cathie had arrived.

Hanley leapt to his feet. “Honey! What are you doing here?”

“I came to see what kind of nonsense you idiots are spouting this time!” Cathie’s glare could have cut glass. “Is gossiping about that two-faced drama queen all you ever do when you’re together?”

“No—no, babe, don’t say that. Cici isn’t two-faced!” Hanley shot a nervous glance at Theodore.

Hanley looked miserable, silently pleading for Cathie to show some mercy.

Theodore, trying to lighten the mood, managed a weak smile. “So what kind of man am I, Cathie?”

Cathie turned on him. “I wasn’t going to say anything, because getting mad over guys like you and girls like her is bad for my baby. I don’t want my child to see how ugly the world is before they’re even born. But since you’re asking, I’ve changed my mind.”

Hanley was sweating bullets. “Honey, please, let’s just let the baby relax in there, huh? No need to get worked up.”

“No can do!” Cathie huffed. “I’ve decided our child needs to learn right from wrong, starting now!”

She faced Theodore squarely. “Listen up, Theo. Don’t act like some kind of saint, okay? All this talk about Cici sticking around when you were nobodies, or her tough times abroad, or your old volunteer days together—what’s the point? Is it so hard to admit you’re just a player? All those excuses, but really, you just want to have your cake and eat it too.”