Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change?

"No, it's not that," Gilbert hurriedly shook his head upon seeing Sherilyn's concerned look. It was both a reassurance and an explanation. "Big brother is fine." "What is it then?" Sherilyn pressed, her brows furrowing, "You're still running the Johnson Group in full capacity, aren't you?"

At her words, Gilbert fell silent.

He frowned, looking at her, pondering how to start, as they shared a silent gaze.

In an instant, Sherilyn understood.

Her lips curved into a faint smile, "It's Caroline, isn't it?"

Her tone was declarative, not questioning.

Gilbert's heart raced, gripping her hand tighter, fearing her anger, "Sherilyn, I..."

"Go on then." Sherilyn was calm. "It must be something urgent to call you out at this late hour. Don't bother explaining now, you better hurry." "Sherilyn?" Gilbert frowned in suspicion, "You're not mad?"

"Not mad." Sherilyn smiled, shaking her head, then suddenly said, "If, and I mean if, I got mad and told you not to go, would you stay?" Gilbert was speechless, his expression said it all.

"See." Sherilyn smiled lightly, "Whether I get mad or not, it won't change the outcome. Why would I waste my energy?"

She withdrew her hand, giving him a nudge.

"Go on, she's waiting for you."

"Sherilyn..."

Sherilyn didn't entertain him further, glancing out the window, "It's late, I'm going to sleep. You should go."

Gilbert looked at her, sensing her anger. But, he couldn't stay.

"Then, I'm leaving."

Sherilyn smiled faintly,

by the time he came out, Sherilyn had already lied down, her back

a tightness in his chest, a sense of

"Sherilyn, I'm leaving."

kept her position, responding softly, without any additional words, nor did she

two seconds, greeted only by the

changing in the closet earlier, he noticed it had started to rain

He bent

cold outside, with

snow touching Sherilyn's

sure you're

well."

swnow

eyes, seemed almost asleep,

"I'll be going then."

reluctantly withdrew his hand, turning to leave the

the door closed

him,

b

close, too close!

actually entertained the thought

for an instant, how could she

phone call dragged Gilbert away, and likewise, snapped

gripping the steering wheel, Gilbert was