Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change?

Sherilyn's grip on her phone tightened, her mouth slightly agape, lost for words.

"Sherilyn," Francis' voice carried a plea, "I have no clue about what went down between you and Gilbert. But, can't you just come to see him?" "Francis."

Sherilyn furrowed her brows, struggling to speak, "Do you really believe that just talking to him would wake him up?"

There was a moment of silence from Francis before he replied, "I'm not a doctor, but I've been a patient. I believe in the power of the will to live, in miracles." Sherilyn blinked rapidly, "If that's the case, then you should understand that he never needed me."

Francis stayed silent for a bit longer this time.

"I understand, I won't force you," he sighed deeply.

After the call ended, Sherilyn held her phone, her mind a tumultuous sea... In two days, would Gilbert awaken?

"Sherilyn?"

Rebecca cautiously made her way over.

"Rebecca," Sherilyn quickly steadied her, "What do you need? Why didn't you call for me?"

"It's nothing." Rebecca smiled, "I can manage to walk slowly on my own, see? I came to get some water."

Sherilyn quickly poured water for her, "Here."

"Thank you." Rebecca held the cup gently, taking small sips, "Were you talking to Mr. Francis?" "Yeah."

"Mr. Gilbert hasn't woken up?"

"Yeah." Sherilyn nodded, continuing her meal prep.

"Aren't you going to see him?" Rebecca leaned against the counter, 'looking' towards her.

Sherilyn paused, "What for? I'm not going."

"Oh."

Rebecca sighed softly, "I just don't get what he was thinking. He got hurt with Caroline but then risked everything to meet you. Did he think he could have it all? But when does life ever work like that?" Sherilyn remained silent, focusing on her cooking.

Whatever Gilbert was planning, she didn't care, nor would she let him succeed! But he couldn't be in danger... For Jenna, he had to be okay!

Two days left, 48 hours.

...

The days passed, night turned to day.

In the morning, Caroline rushed to the hospital.

Francis had stayed the night before.

Entering the room, she noticed his absence.

"Francis?"

"Ms. Bennett," the nurse pointed towards the bathroom, "Mr. Francis is in there."

"Okay."

Caroline nodded and went to set the breakfast she brought on the table.

Hearing the bathroom door open, Francis came out.

"Francis..."

Caroline looked up, and their eyes met,

quickng before Francis

quickly turned back into the

BUMS

bathroom, closing the door behind him.

After a night's vigil, Francis' legs were sore, so he had soaked in a hot bath to feel better.

But emerging in just a robe, with

velet

Sawyer yet to bring his clothes, he felt it improper to be seen by Caroline in such a state, especially since they had broken up.

Outside, Caroline smirked to herself, "What's the meaning of this?"

Now he avoids her even in a bathrobe? To avoid suspicion?

Soon after, Sawyer arrived, "Ms. Bennett, good morning."

Then he went to the bathroom to deliver clean clothes to Francis.

Dressed and presentable, Francis finally reemerged. He looked at Caroline, feeling slightly uneasy. "Francis."

doctor will be here for net

Caroline acted as if it didn't matter,

"Come on, have breakfast. The

"Alright."

Francis nodded, the atmosphere growing heavy again.

swnovel

48 hours had passed, and Gilbert still hadn't awakened.