Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change? novel Chapter 1147

"Yeah," Gilbert nodded, a smug grin plastered across his face, "Absolutely."

He gave his brother a playful pat on the shoulder, "No need to be jealous, big bro. You're not far behind."

Hearing the commotion, Sherilyn looked up from her book, her lips curling into a smile, "Hey, Francis, you're back."

"Yeah," Francis nodded, stepping closer, his voice warm with gratitude, "Thanks for everything you've done these past few days."

"Don't mention it, big bro."

"Dad!" James ran over, his little feet barely making a sound on the carpet. "Uncle Gilbert!"

"Daddy!" Jenna followed suit, her voice a sweet echo. "Uncle Gilbert!"

Each child was promptly scooped up into the arms of their father.

Sherilyn watched them with a fond smile, "Francis, fancy staying for dinner tonight?"

"Afraid not."

Francis shook his head, holding James securely, "I'm just here to pick up James. We'll head back now."

"Sorry about that. Another time, though. Plenty of chances ahead."

"I get it."

Sherilyn chuckled, "Just teasing, Francis. James's bags are already in the car. Safe travels, big bro."

"Thanks." Francis gave a warm nod, a thought suddenly crossing his mind, "Oh, Sherilyn, are you free any time soon?"

"Uh..."

Sherilyn blinked, slightly puzzled, "Is there something up, Francis?"

"Yeah."

Francis shot Gilbert a knowing look, a teasing glint in his eyes, "I'll give you a call. Not the time to spill the beans now."

"Come on..."

Gilbert's curiosity was piqued, "Why not now? What's the big secret?"

"None of your business." Francis teased, "Not everything's for you to know, you know."

Gilbert: "..."

"Alright, Francis." Sherilyn held back a laugh, nodding, "I'll wait for your call."

"Sure thing."

"Hmm?" Sherilyn snapped back to reality, a smile spreading across her face, "Oh, nothing..."

It just felt surreal. Francis had, against all odds, made it back to Sunhaven on his own.

"Let's head inside." Gilbert led her back in, patting his stomach, "I'm getting hungry."

"Alright."

Sherilyn nodded, her smile broadening.

Everything felt real now.

That person, who had been a 'nightmare' in her life, was now thousands of miles away!

No more causing chaos in her life!

She could finally live peacefully and happily.

...

On the way home, James sat slumped in his car seat, staring out the window, lost in thought.

Francis, sensing the boy's mood, didn't tease him about his feelings. He simply said, "We're almost home, buddy. Try to cheer up a bit, alright?"