Night then, catch you later for dinner.
Alright, goodnight.
Galen put his phone down, took a peek through the gate, and finally started his car and drove off.
…
It was nine in the evening when Gilbert hurried back to Blue Haven.
As he entered the South Building, the lights in the dining room were still on.
You’re back.
Sherilyn greeted him. She wore an oatmeal-colored silk gown, a cashmere shawl draped over her shoulders. Her long hair was braided into a fishtail that lay gracefully over her chest. Her face was bare, yet she looked as fresh and lovely as a lily in bloom.
She asked him just that one question before turning to walk further inside.
Come have your medicine.
It was a statement, almost an order.
Okay.
Gilbert followed her obediently, sat down, and picked up the bowl. As he drank the concoction, he kept his eyes on her.
Why are you staring at me? Sherilyn frowned. Am I the medicine?
You’re just so beautiful, incredibly beautiful.
Ha. Sherilyn let out a soft laugh, resting her chin on her hand. You’re a strange one.
Me? Gilbert asked, genuinely curious. What’s so strange about me?
Sherilyn pointed to her own face. I haven’t changed much, maybe a little, but it’s not like I’ve got a new face. Why didn’t you like me before?
I… Gilbert felt a pang of guilt.
Just drink your medicine.
Sherilyn suddenly stood up and walked away, her demeanor suggesting she might be upset.
Sherilyn! Wait!
In a panic, Gilbert quickly finished his medicine and hurried after her.
In the bedroom, Sherilyn headed into the walk-in closet to grab some clothes to change into before heading to the bathroom.
Are you mad? Gilbert took her hand, looking at her with pleading eyes.
Yes, I am. Sherilyn didn’t shy away, meeting his gaze and admitting it directly.
You didn’t like me before, so why start now? Why did you have to mess with my heart?
I’m sorry!
Gilbert wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close.
He whispered in her ear, I was blind before. I don’t know why…
Let go. Sherilyn closed her eyes, not satisfied with his answer. Sherilyn.
Instead of letting go, Gilbert held her tighter. My brother, he’s already in Minnesota.
?
Hearing this, Sherilyn stopped struggling and looked up at him.
He contacted you?
Yeah.
Gilbert nodded, his fingers gently
caressing her cheek. He called met
this afternoon as soon as he
arrived.
vel?
1
Sherilyn was silent.
So, they really were in Minnesota… without any hiccups?
The people she despised were genuinely gone, far from this city, far from her!
Shower?
Gilbert could feel her relaxing, ever so slightly, in his arms.
He took her clothes from her hand and set them aside. How about we shower together? I can wash your back.
Stop it! I don’t need my back washed…
You want it.
Gilbert led her into the shower, Let’s get cleaned up, then we can soak in the tub together with that rose oil you love. How does that sound?
UM
From behind the shower door, clothes were tossed out, scattering across the floor. Gilbert! Sherilyn exclaimed, Did you just rip the strap on my dress?
If it’s broken, I’ll buy you a new one.
It’s just a dress; what’s the big deal?
Ah! Sherilyn covered her eyes, The water got in my eyes!
Let me see… Does it hurt? Let me kiss it better.