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.

just finished bathing Jenna, getting ready to

"Sophia, let me."

stopped Sophia in her tracks and headed to the door, opening it to see Gilbert as

filled with remorse. He glanced inside, "Is Jenna asleep yet?" Stepping forward, Sherilyn blocked his

him, her gaze indifferent, "I'd advise

furrowed, "I was tied up this morning,

about

her head up, her clear eyes

illness is serious; she can't do without you, and you'll be needed

mouth fell open slightly, "It's just

now?" Sherilyn shook her head, her logic clear, "And how long is 'for now'? Recovery from

long

breaking promises to Jenna will happene again!

flinched, his guilt deepening, "Then

in concern. "Can you guarantee it will never happen again?" Gilbert was taken aback, at

your so-called proposal was for Jenna's sake. My daughter's

won't let it go easily! Believe me, I'm capable of

in her voice made Gilbert's heart

raised her

undeniable, "Either leave now, while Jenna's attachment to