Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change?

In the early afternoon, Jenna had finished her lunch and was now peacefully napping.

Sherilyn's phone buzzed promptly, a message from Gilbert.

[I'm downstairs]

He was here to deliver some medicine.

Wrapping herself in a coat, Sherilyn descended the stairs to meet Gilbert, taking the medicine from his hands.

Gilbert pointed to the bag, "There's a label on the box with instructions, and also... you need to visit the clinic for injections every week. I'll remind you about that when it's time."

"Got it," Sherilyn nodded, ready to head back inside, "Thanks for this, you better get going."

"Sherilyn." Gilbert stopped her, a tone of concern in his voice, "Call me anytime if you need anything."

"I will." Sherilyn didn't decline, simply nodding in agreement.

"Sherilyn..." Gilbert hesitated, his brow furrowed, as if struggling to say more.

Sherilyn, puzzled, offered a small smile. "What's up? You look like you're in a tough spot."

Was he thinking about acknowledging Jenna?

Instead, Gilbert's gaze fell to her abdomen, his voice tense, "I just wanted to ask... how are you feeling? Really?"

had recently undergone surgery for an ectopic pregnancy, which, despite being successful, could still have impacted her

she replied calmly, honestly, "I haven't really noticed

"That's good to hear."

more conflicted, clearly having more to

was wearing thin with his hesitation. "What

then blurted out, "You heard what Dr. Dalton said today. I wanted to ask

even without saying it outright, was clear

mention of a 'third

for a moment, "It's too early to think about that now, at least a half-year

understand." Gilbert looked down at her, pressing further, "And after half a

a

"Yes."

these things in advance. What if we don't find a donor in the

voice tinged with surprise and confusion, "What do you mean by 'consider in advance'?" Was he trying to use this

"Don't be nervous."

with Sherilyn, Gilbert could guess

bittersweet chuckle, he clarified, won't push you into anything you're uncomfortable with. What + mean is, if we're considering having

Sherilyn nodded silently, "Yes..."

"Then I understand."

seemed somewhat relieved, finally

should also see a

was somewhat