Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change?

Gilbert frowned, showing his reluctance. "You know how I feel about street food. It's just not clean."

Sherilyn said with a pleading look. "Just this time, please? I've got a real craving today."

"Alright, fine."

Gilbert gave in, remembering the old wives' tale that if a pregnant woman craves something, you have to let her have it. Otherwise, she'd hold it against you forever, bringing it up as a grievance at every chance.

He couldn't bear the thought of Sherilyn feeling that way.

Taking her hand, they headed towards the convenience store, with Gilbert reminding, "Just a little, okay?"

"Got it!"

As they turned, Caroline stood before them.

"Caroline," Gilbert was taken aback. "What are you doing here?"

"Just around," Caroline replied with a forced smile, clearly feeling left out. Was she invisible to him now that Sherilyn was all he could see?

Suddenly, Sherilyn let go of his hand, making Gilbert worry she was upset again. "Sherilyn?"

"Go talk. Abel can come with me," Sherilyn said brightly, nodding toward Abel.

"You're not mad?"

touched her face, seeking

Gilbert. How many times do I have to tell you?" Sherilyn rolled her eyes, tossing her hair with a flourish that

behind you,

to

Gilbert's expression darkened.

began, turning to face her with a measured gaze. "Don't talk

all over her

this one last time. The child is mine won't

paused, as if carefully choosing his next words. "What I owe you has nothing to do with my

that, he turned and strode towards the convenience store, leaving Caroline frozen in place, shocked by

...

hot dog that burst with flavor, just

cautioned, a small, amused smile playing on his lips. "Is it

slightly, swallowing

"Really?"

eyed the hot dog in her hand, taking

"Hey!"

was all you needed!