Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change?

Was Francis really that unfazed as the one in the eye of the storm?

Francis picked up the glass from the table, taking a sip of water.

"I've never really explained it, mainly because it's indefensible. Once I start talking, I'm up against a million other voices spreading rumors. All that matters is that I know the truth," he said with a calm that belied the gravity of his words.

Sherilyn remained silent, her breathing almost imperceptible.

So, there was more to the story? Were the rumors not just baseless fabrications?

Francis set down his glass. "Gilbert and I have always been good to Caroline, that's undeniable...absolutely true. Sherilyn, do you want to know why?"

Sherilyn paused, her heart racing.

She nodded slightly, "Yeah."

"Ah." Francis sighed, as if the words he was about to say were a heavy burden. "We hardly ever talk about it in our family because... well, it's especially painful for Gilbert and me."

He began to recount the past, each word seeming to cost him.

when we were

parents were taken as well. The

with Sylvia Johnson, leading the authorities

Francis and Gilbert were found in a criminal hideout,

the time, Gilbert was being carried on the back of

ragged and gaunt, having

to rush them to the hospital. But the girl refused because she had to lead

carry Francis; he was too big. But with Gilbert safe, she insisted on going back for

rescue Francis

the police, it was

Johnson family, seldom spoken of, because merely thinking about it tore open

his story, Francis' voice

her eyes clouding with

understood now. "Caroline, she

nodded, his voice

well, but