Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change?

"Don't bother packing what's left. You can buy whatever you need once you're abroad. After all, it's all on the Johnson family's dime. I have no time to waste here." With those words and a suitcase, Gilbert was the first to descend the stairs.

Sherilyn bit her lip, feeling a tight, sharp pain in her heart as tears streamed down her face. She raised her hand, clumsily wiping them away.

It was time to go. What difference did it make, staying or moving abroad?

She was on her own then. It seemed no one cared about her grievances and very life.

At the airport, Gilbert didn't see Sherilyn off inside. Instead, his assistant took care of her check-in and escorted her to the security gate.

"Mrs. Johnson, have a safe trip."

Charles handed her the passport and boarding pass. "Give Lady Sylvia a call when you get there. Your allowance will be sent to you monthly."

Sherilyn nodded quietly. "I understand, thank you."

She took a step forward, passing through the boarding gate.

A month later, in the heart of Crestwood, the night was deep in an apartment complex.

dared not turn on the lights, curling up on the bed and making as little noise

of someone banging on the

landlord's gruff voice came from outside, "Foreign girl! Are you in there? It's time to pay your rent! I know you're in there! Say something, will you?" Sherilyn covered her ears, shaking her head with closed eyes, silently praying for the landlord

think

late

stopped, and the footsteps faded away

taking a deep breath of relief. She had avoided confrontation for another day, but what

phone underneath the pillow, she scrolled

nearly a month since she arrived in Crestwood, yet she hadn't received her living allowance. She had been trying to

voice responded, 'Sorry, the number you have dialed is not in

just like

to contact Sylvia, who else could she

Sherilyn took a deep breath, scrolled to his number, and pressed

The call connected!

deep, slightly hoarse voice

swallowing, Sherilyn said, "It's...

An unmistakable impatience colored