Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change?

"Oh." Gilbert's laugh was cold and full of scorn. "So, it's about the money, huh? What else could it be? It hasn't even been a month. Why the hurry? Don't worry. You'll get what's coming to you. Just wait. My

family won't let you starve, will we?"

After a pause, he added, "And don't call me for no reason. I'll get in touch if there's anything."

With that, the call ended.

Sherilyn stared at her phone, stunned. Gilbert really hated her that much!

"Huh." Her face pale, Sherilyn felt utterly demeaned for begging him for money moments ago. Silently, she lifted her hand to her abdomen and closed her eyes as tears began to stream down her face.

Eight months later, Sherilyn was asleep in bed in the slums of Crestwood, her belly large and round.

The due date was around the corner. The doctor had advised her to check into the hospital early due to the baby's position.

Sherilyn just smiled, saying nothing because she didn't have the money.

After her phone call with Gilbert eight months ago, where he said those heartless words, the promised financial support. The living allowance had never arrived.

Sherilyn had spent all her savings. She couldn't afford her apartment anymore and had to move to the slums. Sherilyn hadn't asked Gilbert for money again. She couldn't bear to hear him call her a parasite again.

After settling into the slums, Sherilyn found a part-time job and continued her studies. Though she didn't earn much, it was enough to keep her fed.

into a peaceful dream, the sound of panic and yelling

"Fire!"

"Run for it!"

got out of bed, and opened her door

face went

you still doing here? It's a fire! Hurry up and run!" "Oh! Right!"

about to head back inside when her neighbor grabbed her.

can't!" Sherilyn stamped

penny, for her baby's future needs like hospital bills, diapers,

barely taken a

back, unharmed, but the way forward was

Her neighbor urged

her head fiercely, trying to break

"Ah!"

toward her. Sherilyn turned away, and the fire scorched

pulled her back. "Are you

fine. Cough, cough..." She shook her head,

Her neighbor held on. "You can't go

Sherilyn hesitated, "But..."

neighbor snapped, "Think of the baby! This smoke could kill you both! Do you