Escape from Mr. Whitman (Emma and Theodore) novel Chapter 489

A wave of weariness washed over Emma. She didn’t want to respond, but with Renee right there, she forced a smile for the camera.

“What are you smiling about?” Sebastian pressed. “Were any of your other classmates there?”

Emma hesitated. Should she mention Theodore? If she did, he would definitely get upset. It wasn’t like they had planned to go together; it was a complete coincidence. But lying wasn’t an option either. He was insecure about so many things—was she supposed to lie about every little thing for the rest of their lives?

That brief hesitation was all it took. His expression darkened. “It wasn’t Theodore, was it?”

“Yes, he was there,” Emma admitted, deciding to be direct. She quickly added, “But we didn’t go together. He was already at the Pearsons’ house when we arrived.”

“Really?” he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. “What a fortunate coincidence for you two…”

Emma sighed internally, trying to remain patient. “He and Bart were very close. He’s treating Bart’s parents like his own now. He basically stays with them whenever he’s back in the country.”

“Oh,” Sebastian replied, his tone even more acidic. “So you think he’s some kind of saint, huh? Taking care of his friend’s parents.”

Emma fell silent, though she kept the smile plastered on her face.

Sensing he had gone too far, Sebastian abruptly changed the subject. “Baby, I land tomorrow at noon. Can you come pick me up? We can go for that crab risotto you love.”

Emma took a breath and decided to accept the olive branch. If he was willing to back down, she would meet him halfway.

“Okay, I’ll pick you up. I’ll make a reservation now.”

Emma nodded. “I know. I just feel like every couple has to work through things. As long as it’s not a fundamental deal-breaker, we should be able to overcome it together.”

“I know,” Emma whispered.

Thinking of Sebastian’s reaction, Emma decided to pass. It didn’t matter whether Theodore would be there or not.