Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change?

The next afternoon, Gilbert swung by to pick up Sherilyn for their visit to the revered local healer.

After a thorough examination, the healer sighed deeply, "Your first pregnancy really took a toll on your health, didn't it?"

While saying this, he glanced at Gilbert, "I'm surprised, a man from the Johnson lineage can't take proper care of his wife?"

Gilbert's eyes glazed over and he fell silent, unable to muster a response.

The healer continued with a sense of lament, "The burdens of affluence... Why would a fine young woman entangle herself with such a family?" Sherilyn couldn't agree more. She had no intention of stepping into such a world again.

The healer prescribed some remedies for her.

"Fortunately, you're young and resilient. With proper care, you should recover fully. Let's start with these prescriptions, and see how they work." "Come in for acupuncture twice a week. I'll prepare the remedies in advance for you to take home after your sessions."

"Thank you," they both said.

Gilbert, with utmost respect, thanked the healer and led Sherilyn out.

As they reached the entrance of Sunset Ridge Community, Sherilyn signaled Gilbert, "You can just drop me here by the curb."

"Okay."

Gilbert complied, checking his watch. It was just after three, not yet four - Jenna was probably at the park.

"You're going to see Jenna, aren't you?"

opened the door, stepping out, "I'll see

back, not a hint of reluctance in

What now?

this forever? He was Jenna's father, yet now, even a glimpse of his daughter seemed too much to ask for. He wanted to see Jenna,

to himself, he was

to be a good man, nor did he

At the park.

the sky began to darken at five. If not for the evening closing in, she

scooped her up, "Let's go, sweetheart.

at the mention of food, "Yay,

"Jenna?"

they turned to see Gilbert approaching with a

gaze hardened on Gilbert's smiling face. What was he doing here? What did he want? Gilbert closed the distance in a few

eager for Gilbert to hold

then

Gilbert's

up as he took

arms. The soft weight of her, so

s to en.FindNovel a

"Mommy, it's Mister!"

but her small voice struggled to

worry. I will

trying to appease both,