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

she replied calmly, honestly, "I haven't

"That's good to hear."

expression grew more conflicted,

was wearing thin with his hesitation. "What

heard what Dr. Dalton said today.

he was referring to, even without saying it

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

too early to think about that now, at

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

half a year?"

"Yes."

to consider these things in advance. What if we don't find a donor in the next six months?" Then, the 'third option' would

chest, her voice tinged with surprise and confusion, "What do you mean by 'consider in advance'?" Was he trying to use this as an opportunity to suggest they get back together... in

"Don't be nervous."

Gilbert could guess her

chuckle, he clarified, won't push you into anything you're uncomfortable with. What + mean is, if we're considering having another child... you need to be

Sherilyn nodded silently, "Yes..."

"Then I understand."

somewhat relieved, finally making

should also see a

was somewhat