Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change?

The next day, Sherilyn's cough had somewhat subsided. It had nothing to do with the medicine Gilbert had brought over; the bottle Charles had delivered later was still unopened in her cabinet.

As evening approached, she decided to go out. She was on her way to see Blake. Blake had mentioned signing a contract with his studio previously, and after giving it some thought, Sherilyn decided to agree. Today, she was heading over to discuss the contract details with Blake. Blake had the contract ready when she arrived. After reviewing it carefully, Sherilyn found the contract to be quite favorable, especially for a newcomer like herself.

"If there's anything you're not happy with, don't hesitate to speak up," Blake joked.

"You're kidding," Sherilyn laughed, "It looks great to me."

"Well then, shall we sign?" Blake suggested.

"Sure."

Sherilyn picked up a pen and signed her name in the designated area. There were three copies of the contract, and one was hers to keep.

"Fantastic!" Blake exclaimed, shaking her hand warmly. "From now on, we're basically family!"

Something else came to mind, "The lead role for the new show is all set. In a few days, I'll need you to come by again to sign some paperwork."

Was this really happening?!

Sherilyn nodded with a smile, overflowing with gratitude, "Thank you, Blake."

"Thank me for what?" Blake playfully chided, chuckling, "We're all in this together. Making you a star is part of my job! Your success is the studio's success, and my success too, right?" "...Right," Sherilyn agreed with a smile.

By the time she returned to Sunset Ridge Community, it was nearly 7 PM. She hadn't driven today, and upon arriving at her apartment complex, she spotted Gilbert's Bentley parked outside. Again? Letting out a sigh, Sherilyn noticed Gilbert stepping out of the car and heading her way.

Before he could say anything. Sherilyn coughed twice.

"Why are you still coughing?" Gilbert frowned, "That shouldn't be happening. The medicine I gave you should've worked wonders..."

He paused, as if realizing something, "You didn't take it, did you?"

"No," Sherilyn firmly shook her head, her expression clearly showing her irritation.

"What are you doing here again? Wasn't I clear enough last time? Or do you not understand plain English?"

"Sherilyn," Gilbert started, his gaze

softening as it settled on her. "I... I moved out of Golden Oak Manor and now live in Blue Haven," he hesitantly shared, touching his forehead in a somewhat

ov

embarrassed gesture.

He continued to explain, "Caroline does live in Golden Oak Manor, but next door. We never lived together. There's nothing between me and her, honestly."

Sherilyn was taken aback, her clear

eyes filled with shock and disbelief. Could it be true? Neighbors, not cohabitants? Considering Caroline's character, twisting the truth was certainly within her capabilities.

Yet, what astounded Sherilyn more was what Gilbert had said earlier. He had moved out of Golden Oak Manor?!

"Everything you've said, I've taken to heart," Gilbert continued. "Please, give me a bit more time. I'll sort things out with Caroline. Once everything's settled, I..."

He paused, leaving Sherilyn to wonder. She looked up into his dark eyes, searching for sincerity.

"I promise to treat you well, to only have eyes for you... to listen only to you. Will you give me a chance?" Gilbert's voice was earnest.

Sherilyn remained silent, absorbing

his words, her heart tightening and racing with a mix of fear and hope, Was he serious? Could this really be happening? She had never imagined that between her and Caroline, she might actually be the choice.