Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change? novel Chapter 1237

Gilbert carefully folded the sweater, smoothing out the edges before placing it into a bag and picking it up.

His gaze lingered on Sherilyn, and he spoke softly.

“Remember to see the doctor, okay?”

Sherilyn blinked, momentarily caught off guard, but nodded. “I will. Don’t worry.”

“Which doctor prescribed your medication?”

Gilbert hesitated as he let go of the sweater, clearly still uneasy. “Do you need me to make an appointment for you?”

“No, that’s not necessary.” Sherilyn shook her head. “I’ve been seeing Dr. Wilson. He’s good—Rebecca White is his patient too.”

Gilbert murmured, frowning, “If Francis trusts him, I’m sure he’s reliable. Oh—”

He paused, shifting to another subject. “Have you decided where you’ll be moving? Do you have somewhere lined up?”

He could have arranged everything for her, but he knew she’d never accept it.

“I do,” Sherilyn answered, nodding. “I asked Galen to get the house on Starfall Drive ready.”

Of course, Gilbert thought. She’d planned ahead.

He managed a bittersweet smile. “That’s a lovely house.”

Looking down at her, he spoke gently, as if negotiating. “This isn’t an excuse to stay involved in your life, I promise. But… my siblings—even if they’re quiet now—well, you never know what people are capable of. For your safety and Jenna’s, would you let Candida and the others stay close and look out for you?”

Sherilyn froze, stunned.

“You… you’re okay with Jenna being with me?” she asked quietly.

She’d considered it before. Now that Jenna was officially registered under his name, taking her away wouldn’t be simple. Yet, from his words, it was clear he’d never intended to make things difficult.

Why had she even worried?

Gilbert looked at Sherilyn, his eyes full of reluctance. But he had no reason to linger any longer.

They stood so close, separated only by a breath. If he reached out, he could hold her, pull her into his arms. But all he could do was look at her.

Even at this final goodbye, they couldn’t embrace. This, he realized, was what people meant by “so close, yet so far.”

He swallowed hard, his words heavy and rough.

“Sherilyn, I should go. Get some rest. Goodnight.”

She managed a small smile. “Goodnight. You too.”

Suddenly, Gilbert turned away, striding quickly to the door. He opened it and slipped out, the soft click of the lock echoing in the silence.

Sherilyn watched his retreating figure vanish through the narrow gap. She didn’t blink, not even as hot tears welled up and spilled down her cheeks, sharp as stones, making her eyes ache and burn.