Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change?

As the meeting wrapped up, the conference room slowly emptied.

"Mr. Johnson."

"Mr. Johnson."

"Mhm."

Gilbert stood by the door, greeting each person with a polite smile.

Sherilyn slung her bag over her shoulder and made her way out. Catching a glimpse of him surrounded by a crowd, she quickly diverted her gaze and sped up her pace. "Sherilyn!"

Gilbert hurriedly excused himself from the group and caught up to her, leaning in with a grin. "Heading off without me? Didn't you see me?"

Feeling a bit defeated, Sherilyn admitted, "I did. That's exactly why I walked faster."

"Ouch, that's harsh."

Gilbert looked at her, his laughter low and slow. "Come on, my car's just outside. Can't leave it there too long or it might get towed."

Half-dragging her, they headed to his car, bound for Sunset Ridge Community.

in her seat, silent as she watched the scenery blur

be home by now, right?" Gilbert glanced outside. "Weather's not

hummed, still

Gilbert switched topics. "Sophia's cooking is always a

"Don't tell me you're planning to invite yourself

then with a cheeky tone, replied, "Why, worried you won't

at a loss for words. The man's confidence

today. Maybe

Sherilyn just stared...

faded to

off at Sunset Ridge Community. I need to fly

Flying out now?

the holidays might mean not

carefully,

to Switzerland. Caroline's

trouble. Her

burglarized."

barely fazed Sherilyn. Caroline always seemed to be in some sort of predicament,

once saved the Johnson brothers'

Sherilyn's calm demeanor, Gilbert grew