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.

girl had stood before him with that same gleeful smile, passionately confessing her

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

that girl's heart

drift apart. This world never

Gilbert smirked, "Thanks."

what?" Callie clung tighter to his arm, becoming more clingy, "You just have to agree to date

have

confident that once you're with me, you'll like me even more!" Gilbert squinted,

like you! One day, you'll like

of his

chuckle, "We've been out here for

tightly, "Then,

"I can't!"

"I can teach you!"

...

Golden Oak Manor.

past nine, and

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

she emerged from her bath at

if Gilbert planned

idly scrolled through her phone with no particular aim. Suddenly,

her eye-it was from Callie, a photo.

Gilbert

defined fingers