Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change?

"No, it's not that," Gilbert hurriedly shook his head upon seeing Sherilyn's concerned look. It was both a reassurance and an explanation. “Big brother is fine."

"What is it then?" Sherilyn pressed, her brows furrowing, "You're still running the Johnson Group in full capacity, aren't you?"

At her words, Gilbert fell silent.

He frowned, looking at her, pondering how to start, as they shared a silent gaze.

In an instant, Sherilyn understood.

Her lips curved into a faint smile, "It's Caroline, isn't it?"

Her tone was declarative, not questioning.

Gilbert's heart raced, gripping her hand tighter, fearing her anger, "Sherilyn, I..."

"Go on then.” Sherilyn was calm. "It must be something urgent to call you out at this late hour. Don't bother explaining now, you better hurry." "Sherilyn?" Gilbert frowned in suspicion, "You're not mad?"

"Not mad." Sherilyn smiled, shaking her head, then suddenly said, "If, and I mean if, I got mad and told you not to go, would you stay?" Gilbert was speechless, his expression said it all.

"See." Sherilyn smiled lightly, "Whether I get mad or not, it won't change the outcome. Why would I waste my energy?"Content is property of NôvelDrama.Org.

She withdrew her hand, giving him a nudge.

"Go on, she's waiting for you."

"Sherilyn..."

Sherilyn didn't entertain him further, glancing out the window, "It's late, I'm going to sleep. You should go."

Gilbert looked at her, sensing her anger. But, he couldn't stay.

"Then, I'm leaving."

"Okay." Sherilyn smiled faintly, nodding.

As Gilbert stood up and went to the closet, by the time he came out, Sherilyn had already lied down, her back to him.

Suddenly, Gilbert felt a tightness in his chest, a sense of unease.

"Sherilyn, I'm leaving."

"Mhm..." Sherilyn kept her position, responding softly, without any additional words, nor did she look at him.

Gilbert waited another two seconds, greeted only by the room's silence.

While changing in the closet earlier, he noticed it had started to rain mixed with snow outside.

He bent

face, "It's cold outside, with rain and snow. Make sure you're sure you're covered well."

snow touching Sherilyn's

Swno

Sherilyn, with closed eyes, seemed almost asleep, not even acknowledging him.

"I'll be going then."

After a brief hesitation, Gilbert reluctantly withdrew his hand, turning to leave the room.

The moment the door closed behind

42 opened her eyes, b sclose, too close! Conte Poret

gaze clear and composed... That

W

For a moment, she had actually entertained the thought of making it work with him?

Even if it was just for an instant, how could she harbor such a foolish and terrifying thought?

Luckily, a phone call dragged Gilbert away, and likewise, snapped her out of it...

...

In the car, gripping the steering wheel, Gilbert was visibly frustrated.

His thoughts were consumed with Sherilyn - was she asleep? Given her usual sleep troubles, probably not.

So why, when he left, did she ignore him?

He had mentioned the unsparing

weather outside, yet she acted as if

2 from her.

she hadn't heard, not even a simple 'be careful' from her.

Earlier that evening, when she had made him steamed pears, he felt she had warmed up to him significantly.

But just now, it felt like she had reverted back to square one...

His phone rang, it was Caroline.

"Caroline?" Gilbert tried to focus.

"Gilbert. I'm so scared..."