Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change?

"Really?"

Caroline paused, tears hanging at the corners of her eyes, "You're not kidding me?"

"No joke, it's the truth."

Gilbert nodded solemnly.

Though the doctors couldn't be completely sure, even a sliver of a chance was worth trying.

"Caroline, I won't give up, and you shouldn't either, okay?"

Caroline looked up at him, silent for a long moment before finally nodding. She squeezed his hand.

"Gilbert, don't leave me alone. You're all I've got!"

"Never." Gilbert promised earnestly, "I'll never leave you..."

He felt responsible for her plight; how could he ever abandon her?

"The doctor will be making rounds soon. Maybe freshen up a bit?"

"Okay." Caroline nodded immediately, her spirits lifted somewhat, "I'll listen to you."

That evening.

finished bathing Jenna, getting ready to read her

"Sophia, let me."

to the door, opening it to see Gilbert as

gave an awkward smile, his face filled with remorse. He glanced inside, "Is Jenna asleep yet?" Stepping forward, Sherilyn blocked his

her gaze indifferent, "I'd advise you not to go

up

about next

tilted her head up, her clear eyes

can't do without you,

slightly, "It's just for

"And how long is 'for now'? Recovery from paralysis isn't

"As long as

happene

his guilt deepening, "Then let me

her eyebrows knitted in concern. "Can you guarantee it will never

should realize, my agreement to your so-called proposal was for Jenna's sake. My daughter's

chilling to the bone, "I won't let it go easily!

her voice made Gilbert's

raised her eyebrows,

and undeniable, "Either leave now,