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?"

which, despite

honestly, "I haven't really

"That's good to hear."

grew more conflicted,

wearing thin with his hesitation. "What are you

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

to, even without saying

about Dr. Dalton's mention of a 'third option'-having

a moment, "It's too early to

looked down at her, pressing further, "And after

half a

"Yes."

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

'consider in advance'?"

"Don't be nervous."

with Sherilyn, Gilbert could guess

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."

relieved, finally making his

should also

Sherilyn was somewhat confused.