Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change? novel Chapter 789

Sherilyn furrowed her brows but eventually nodded, "Alright."

She got up, trailing behind Gilbert as they left the hospital room one after the other.

"It's almost noon," Gilbert glanced at his watch, "Perfect timing, how about we grab lunch together? Blue Plate Diner, sound good?"

Sherilyn glanced at him sideways, "Sounds good."

When they arrived at the Blue Plate Diner, they opted for a private booth.

"What's good here?" Gilbert passed the menu to her.

"Anything's fine by me," Sherilyn said, taking a sip of water and waving her hand dismissively.

"Alright then, I'll choose."

Gilbert flagged down a waiter and listed off a selection of dishes, "Let's start with these... and remember, no cilantro, no onions, no garlic."

"Sure thing, Mr. Gilbert."

Sherilyn's brow twitched slightly, recognizing some of her favorites and notably, the ones she'd never touch.

She set down her water glass and looked up at him.

"Weren't you going to say something? Go ahead."

Gilbert's lips curled into a half-smile, "Let's eat first, we'll talk after."

True to his word, they focused on the meal first.

Once the food arrived, Gilbert busied himself with serving her, "This venison dish, it's one of your favorites."

"Thanks."

Sherilyn eyed the small mountain of dishes in front of her, then lowered her head and ate at a leisurely pace.

Gilbert watched quietly, murmuring, "You're eating well."

After she had eaten most of her meal, he poured her some soup, "Careful, it's hot. Sip slowly."

"Mhm." Sherilyn nodded, taking cautious sips.

"Sherilyn..."

"Hmm?" She looked up, was he finally going to say it?

Gilbert blinked, a slight smile on his face, "Even though I've left the Johnson family, the credit card I gave you for Jenna's expenses can still be used, no worries there."

"Oh." Sherilyn nodded.

"No need," she said softly, smiling faintly, "I'm full."

At that moment, she finally understood.

"Is this a farewell meal?"

Gilbert clenched his eyes shut, feeling a sharp pain twist around his heart, and nodded heavily, "Yes. After today, once you walk out that door, I won't bother you for any reason again."

"Oh."

Sherilyn's smile was light, "It doesn't have to be this grand, it's just a matter of saying it, right?"

"One last time..." Gilbert shook his head, "I just wanted to see you properly once more."

"Mhm."

Sherilyn nodded, wiping her mouth with a napkin and meeting his gaze squarely, "Have you seen enough? I'm full."

Her words implied she was ready to leave.

"Seen..." Gilbert's voice caught in his throat, but he managed to nod, "Yes, I have."

"Hmm." Sherilyn smiled, picked up her bag, and stood up, "Then, I'm off."