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.

and I, when we

as well. The incident

with Sylvia Johnson, leading the authorities

remained unresolved for six months until Francis and Gilbert were found

being carried on

to be about his age, ragged and

police wanted to rush them to the hospital. But the

But with Gilbert

her lead, the police were able to rescue Francis as well. However, their parents

to the police, it was likely they had

e within each member of the Johnson family, seldom spoken

story, Francis' voice seemed

lips parted slightly, her eyes clouding

now. "Caroline,

nodded, his voice

we treat her well, but they