Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change?

Gilbert sat on the edge of his bed, cheeks puffed out, feeling a sourness around his eyes that he couldn't shake.

It was supposed to be a sweet moment, yet why did everything taste so bitter in his mouth?

Sherilyn, I'm sorry...

Jenna, I'm sorry...

...

Late at night.

At Golden Oak Manor.

Gilbert stepped out of the shower, his skin still damp and shining. He switched on the TV and stumbled upon a documentary, hitting the play button.

"From the moment of conception, a woman's body undergoes a myriad of changes..."

He was watching a documentary on pregnancy and childbirth.

The room was dark, lit only by the faint glow of the TV screen that flickered across Gilbert's face.

He watched intently, murmuring, "So, pregnancy is this painful..."

Even with the support of husbands and families, the pregnant women in the documentary seemed to be walking a tightrope between life and death.

And then there was Sherilyn.

Gilbert covered his eyes with a hand.

months... And afterwards, those long three years, raising Jenna alone! She was just a little girl when she

girl, taking care

prolonged four years that had eroded Sherilyn's love, but... his own cruelty

from the table, and

glass shattered

closed his

never forgive him...

Sunset

fast asleep, but Sherilyn lay awake,

hands were clasped tightly

events, she no longer had to pretend

he wouldn't

with that came

such bonds ever truly

she was kicked

not enough food, no breast milk, and had

you don't deserve forgiveness... Never...

...

The following afternoon, Sherilyn

to her

stroll

she received

read simply, "I'm downstairs, waiting

on her coat, and

"Sherilyn, over here."

particular destination in mind, they found themselves

"What'll you have?"