Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change?

At the exclusive Pinegrove Club.

Gilbert stepped out of the private dining room, craving a breath of fresh air, with Callie Robinson trotting behind him.

"Gilbert, wait up!"

He glanced back at her, then asked, "Why are you following me?"

"Why so grumpy?" Callie pouted, ignoring his chilly demeanor. "We've known each other since we were kids, remember? You didn't even recognize me last time! Plus, you still owe me an apology." She was referring to the incident involving her and Caroline Bennett.

At that time, Gilbert hadn't recognized her.

But who was Callie? A lady of distinguished heritage, raised with Western values, unfamiliar with the concept of restraint.

Knowing Gilbert would be here tonight, she made it a point to seek him out.

Once Gilbert was informed of her identity, the issue with Caroline had to be brushed aside.

The Robinson family's reputation had to be preserved.

But an apology?

A smirk played on Gilbert's lips. "And how exactly should I apologize?"

Callie laughed, looping her arm through his and saying, "Gilbert, I like you! I've liked you since we were kids! Let's date? I want to be with you!"

Really? Gilbert paused, momentarily stunned.

him with that same gleeful smile,

grow up, I want to marry you! I want to be

that girl's heart

hearts drift apart. This world never

Gilbert smirked, "Thanks."

becoming more clingy, "You just

cutting her off, "I have

that once you're with me, you'll like me even more!" Gilbert squinted, thinking to himself how her brazen confidence reminded him of the

mine! I like you! One day, you'll like

waved her hand in front of his face, pouting, "Why

it with a chuckle, "We've been out

tightly, "Then, will

"I can't!"

"I can teach you!"

...

Golden Oak Manor.

nine, and dinner

Gomez, too lazy to reheat and struggling with her pregnancy appetite, opted for a bowl of soup from the pot. That filled

upstairs after her meal, she emerged

if Gilbert planned on coming

scrolled through her phone with no particular aim.

from Callie, a photo. The

Gilbert

fingers holding