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.

with that same gleeful

I want to marry you! I

heart belonged

apart. This

Gilbert smirked, "Thanks."

becoming more clingy, "You just have to agree to date

have a

I'm confident that once you're with me, you'll like me even more!" Gilbert squinted, thinking to himself how her brazen confidence

I like you! One day, you'll like

front of his face, pouting,

out of it with a chuckle, "We've been out here for

arm tightly, "Then,

"I can't!"

"I can teach you!"

...

Golden Oak Manor.

nine, and dinner had

with her pregnancy appetite, opted for a

meal, she

Gilbert planned on coming home

bed, she idly scrolled through her phone with no

social media post caught her eye-it was from Callie, a photo. The backdrop seemed like a fancy ball or cocktail

Gilbert

fingers