Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change?

"Sherilyn," Caroline's voice was cheerful, even though her face was hidden behind sunglasses and a mask. "Who knew you could dance like that? You could totally be a dance instructor on TV. I'm so proud of you."

Sherilyn casually threw in a "Thanks" as they talked.

Suddenly, a sleek navy Maybach pulled up in front of them.

"Francis is here to pick me up," Caroline mentioned, inviting Sherilyn, "Where are you headed? Come on, we'll give you a lift."

"No, it's okay," Sherilyn declined with a wave. "Gilbert's coming for me in a bit."

"Oh," Caroline replied with a meaningful smile. "Then I won't keep you from your date. We'll head off first."

At the bottom of the steps, Francis had already exited the car, holding the door open for Caroline.

lately, but Francis had been making daily calls and visits, always ready to pick her

to today?" Caroline asked, intertwining her fingers with Francis'

like," Francis replied, his usual response.

to be precise. At least, that was the style among the Johnsons.

ached as

belong to Sherilyn. Now, she suspected it belonged to someone else James' mother. Francis had lied again, claiming he wouldn't

her, calling her name, she forced a smile, taking his hand to step out. Learning from past experiences, she chose not to make a scene. Francis wouldn't admit anything anyway. She had to discreetly find out

Soon after, Gilbert arrived.

over to take her

him intently, making him uneasy. "Why are

saw today?" Sherilyn's

"Who?" Gilbert was clueless.