Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change?

“Absolutely.” Once Sherilyn had the epiphany, she didn’t hesitate any further. “Let me think…”

What should she ask for as a thank–you gift?

“Here’s an idea.” Sherilyn had made up her mind. “How about you treat me to a brunch at The Velvet Fork? I’m craving their assorted breakfast pastries.”

“What?” Gilbert was stunned, almost sure he’d misheard.

Raising an eyebrow in disbelief, he asked, “Are you sure?”

Was it really that strange?

The Velvet Fork was a century–old diner in Sunhaven, known for serving breakfast only and in limited quantities. Once they sold out for the day, you’d have to wait until the next. Given its rarity, the prices were naturally steep. All text © NôvelD(r)a'ma.Org.

Having been abroad for four years, Sherilyn hadn’t had the chance to enjoy it for a long time. Even when she returned, it was a luxury she couldn’t afford. The thank–you gift she was asking for was genuine.

Sherilyn nodded, “Yep, I’m sure.”

“Ha,” Gilbert chuckled, his eyes twinkling with amusement, “You realize you only get one shot at this, right? Once in a lifetime opportunity.”

She could have taken the chance to ask him for money, property, or anything.

“Yep, I’ve made up my mind.” But Sherilyn didn’t waver, adding, “I want the one with the veggie mix.”

“You got it.” Gilbert agreed, nodding his head.

He had given her the chance, and since she insisted, there was no reason for him to feel he owed her anything. “First thing tomorrow morning, I’ll take you there once Grandma is stable.”

Sherilyn agreed. “It’s a deal.”

The following morning, Sylvia’s condition had stabilized. The doctor checked on her early and confirmed she was all good. “You two have been up all night. You can go back and rest now. We have a special nurse, and regular treatments and care will continue.”

Gilbert and Sherilyn had stayed up all night and, without any objections, made sure Sylvia was settled before leaving together.

As per their agreement from the night before, Gilbert drove Sherilyn to The Velvet Fork.

10.00

Since they didn’t have a driver and Charles wasn’t with them, Gilbert parked the car and went to make the purchase himself.

“I’ll come, too.” Sherilyn followed him out of the car, unconsciously biting her lip. “Breakfast pastries taste best when fresh out of the oven.”

Saying so, she swallowed her saliva.

Gilbert couldn’t help but chuckle at the sight, realizing how much she was looking forward to that.

“Don’t worry, I’ll make sure you get your fill. Let’s go!” He led the way.

They weren’t early, but it wasn’t too late, either. As usual, there was a line.

Gilbert turned to Sherilyn, “I’ll wait in line here. You find a spot to sit.”

“Okay.” Gilbert lined up while Sherilyn grabbed a seat and watched eagerly as he gradually made his way forward.

She counted under her breath, “Five, now four…”

Finally, it was Gilbert’s turn.

He paid and received the pastries.

He curved his lips into a smile, just in time to catch the last few cheese pastries before they sold out.

But the Velvet Fork’s pastries were large–sized, surely enough to satisfy her.

He scanned the crowd for Sherilyn, who spotted him and ran over.

Sherilyn asked eagerly, “Did you get them?”

Gilbert nodded, walking toward her.

“Mr. Johnson?” Halfway there, someone stopped him. It was Caroline’s young assistant.

“It is you!” The assistant wasn’t alone, pointing outside, “Caroline’s in the car. I came to get her these pastries.”

Then, she complained, “Caroline wanted the assorted ones, but by my turn, they were out of stock. You know how picky she is. She won’t even take a bite if it’s not the cheese pastries.”

The assistant rambled, “We have a full morning of shooting scheduled, and if she doesn’t eat, it’ll be a disaster…”

Suddenly, she stopped, eyes landing on the paper bag in Gilbert’s hand, “Mr. Johnson, you’re here for the pastries, too?”

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