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

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

you, Ms.

to see

Gilbert's expression darkened.

her with a measured gaze. "Don't talk about Sherilyn like that. She's pregnant.

Caroline gasped, disbelief written all over her face. "But her

anger barely contained. "I'm saying this one last time. The child is

his next words. "What I owe you

turned and strode towards the convenience store, leaving Caroline frozen in place, shocked by his declaration

...

into a hot dog that burst

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

swallowing before responding,

"Really?"

hot dog in her hand, taking one for himself to taste. "Let me

"Hey!"

went wide with disbelief. "A bite was all you needed! Why take the