Certainly! Here’s your text adapted into a Western, localized, contemporary,
conversational English novel excerpt, with appropriate substitutions for cultural references, food, names, and customs:
?
Sherilyn blinked, caught a little off guard. Why do you ask? Are you…?
She started to continue but stopped herself, hesitating. She wasn’t sure if Rebecca White already knew everything.
On the other end of the line, Rebecca let out a wry chuckle. I know, Sher. Caroline’s back in town.
Of course.
Sherilyn gripped her phone tightly, pausing before she spoke. And you’re still checking in on me? I should be the one asking-how are you holding up?
For a moment, the two women, separated by a phone call, shared the same bitter taste of resignation and heartache.
Honestly? Rebecca’s laugh was hollow. “I’m not doing great.”
She paused. But that’s all it is for me—just not great. It’s different for you…
Back in those years in Sunhaven, it was no secret that Caroline’s drama with the Johnson brothers was the talk of the town.
Sure, Rebecca and Caroline were rivals-at most.
But for Sherilyn, it was so much messier.
It wasn’t just about love triangles. Because of Caroline, Sherilyn had gone through
hell. Caroline wasn’t just an ex’s flame-she was practically an enemy.
Rebecca’s voice softened. Sher, I’m honestly more worried about you. Sherilyn listened, lost in thought.
From Rebecca’s words, it was clear she knew Caroline was back. Her brother hadn’t kept it from her.
Which made sense. Compared to Gilbert, her brother had spent more obvious time with Caroline-hard to hide that.
Might as well be upfront about it.
But…
Sherilyn frowned, remembering the way Gilbert looked so conflicted whenever he’d mentioned Rebecca and her brother. There was definitely more to the story.
But it was clear: Rebecca didn’t know about all that—at least, not yet.
All Sherilyn had were guesses. The truth was still out of reach.
Sher?
Rebecca’s voice broke in, a little worried. Are you still there? Can you hear me?
Yeah, I’m here, Sherilyn said, snapping back to reality. She picked up where they’d left off.
I’ll be honest too. I’m not exactly okay…but… She managed a smile, forcing some lightness into her words. I’ll get through it. Somehow. Don’t worry about me.
Rebecca sighed. I wish I could do more. But if you ever need to vent, or just hang out, or really anything-just say the word. I’m here, okay?
Sherilyn smiled. I know. And I won’t be shy about it, promise.
Oh-right! Rebecca remembered why she called in the first place. You texted me about the bridal shop? When are we going?
Yeah, that’s right.
I was just wondering… Rebecca was always straightforward—no need to tiptoe around with Sherilyn. With everything going on, is your wedding still on?
Yep, Sherilyn replied, shaking her head. Gilbert wants to keep everything as planned.
Rebecca let out a quiet breath. That’s… good, I guess.
Sherilyn raised an eyebrow, not quite committing to an answer. So, when are you free?
I was just about to say, Rebecca replied, rattling off a few options. Check with Joyce too-she’s got hospital shifts and all, but I’ll fit around her.
No worries, Sherilyn said, grinning. If we can’t all make it together, we can go separately.
They chatted a bit longer, then hung up.
Sherilyn stared at her phone, then gazed out the car window.
Everything for the wedding had to go on as planned-every little detail, every step.
And on top of it all, she’d have to keep up the act, just so Gilbert wouldn’t start to suspect anything.