Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change?

At the Southern District Nursing Home, Nurse Jane helped Rebecca get dressed in her coat, hat, and scarf for the short walk outside. Rebecca laughed softly, "It's just a few steps, do we really need all this?"

"Of course, we do!" Jane replied with a gentle firmness that came from years of experience. "It's chilly out there, better safe than sorry." "Alright, I'll listen to you, Jane."

With a smile, Jane linked her arm with Rebecca's and they stepped out the door.

The nursing home had been bustling with holiday activities, a warm attempt to gather those who couldn't go home for Christmas, making the season a little less lonely for everyone. Participation was optional, of course, and the quieter souls were not compelled to join. But today, Rebecca found herself being gently coaxed by Jane to take part.

Once they arrived at the activity room, Jane found a spot and helped Rebecca sit down. "Ms. White, you wait here. I'll grab us some snacks. There's going to be a show soon-we might as well enjoy it."

"Okay, that sounds good," Rebecca agreed with a smile, shedding her coat and draping it over a nearby chair to save a spot for Jane.

Suddenly, she felt someone moving her coat.

"Excuse me."

Rebecca's eyes widened in surprise as she addressed the newcomer. "I'm sorry, but someone is sitting here my nurse. I'm blind, and it's easier for her to help me if she's next to me. Could you please find another seat?" But the person simply sat down.

Rebecca's brows furrowed in disapproval. How rude and inconsiderate!

Francis, without making a fuss, placed her coat on another chair and looked at her. Noticing her annoyance, he offered a compromise with a gentle smile, "How about I ask your nurse to move one seat over? Would that be alright?" That voice...?

Rebecca, initially startled, recognized the person and relaxed. "Oh, it's you."

"Yes, it's me," Francis confirmed with a nod. "Your neighbor. Merry Christmas."

"Merry Christmas to you too," Rebecca replied, her expression softening into a smile. "I thought you'd gone home for the holidays."

"Just got back," he said, then inquired about her, "And you?"

"The same."

Jane returned with a plateful of cookies and a warm smile that didn't waver even as she noticed Francis. Handing one plate to him, she subtly made room for him.

"Thank you," Rebecca said gratefully, her heart warmed by Francis'

kindness. "Feel free to help yourself

to some cookies-I can't

take whatever you like." so just

"Thank you," Francis replied, his voice filled with genuine appreciation.

As the performance began on stage, Rebecca listened for entertainment, while Francis seemed disinterested, his concern focused entirely on her wellbeing.

"How are your eyes...?" he hesitated before asking softly, his concern palpable.

Rebecca tilted her head in slight surprise before answering with a light laugh, "Oh, they're alright, except for not being able to see."

Francis frowned, "I've heard that some people who can't see still feel pain or discomfort. Do you?"

"That's interesting," Rebecca mused, surprised. "I did feel a bit unwell yesterday, but after seeing the doctor and taking some medicine, I feel much better."

Relieved, Francis nodded, then grew quiet when Rebecca curiously asked why he was staying in the Southern District Nursing Home despite seeming healthy. Caught off guard, Francis fell silent.

"Sorry," Rebecca quickly apologized, realizing her question might have been too personal. "I didn't mean to

pry. You don't have to answer. I'm sorry if I offended you..." Content I belongs to FindNovel