Stepping out of the emergency center’s doorway, Gilbert and Francis went to fetch the car, while Caroline was escorted by a nurse.
Come on, Becky, Sherilyn looped her arm through Rebecca White’s, glancing at her. Let’s head out.
Huh?
Rebecca blinked in confusion, whispering, Didn’t Gilbert say he’d give us a lift?
Yeah, well, Sherilyn shrugged, that’s him talking. I never agreed.
But…
Rebecca hesitated. I thought he was, you know, siding with you. He didn’t seem to favor Caroline.
Guilty conscience, Sherilyn said with a dismissive smile. Plus, putting on a show. Making a big deal in front of me as if I’d buy it. Typical guy move, totally gross. What?
Caroline, overhearing this, was taken aback, her eyes wide with disbelief.
Sherilyn was talking about Gilbert like that? What did she think he was?
Let’s go, Sherilyn urged Rebecca. We can make our own way home. No need for his ‘chariot’.
Okay, then.
Rebecca nodded. If her friend felt so strongly, who was she to argue?
Meanwhile, Gilbert and Francis had brought the cars around, stepping out in unison.
Not seeing Sherilyn and Rebecca, the brothers exchanged looks, then cast their eyes toward Caroline.
Why are you looking at me? Caroline scoffed. If they wanted to leave, it’s not like I could stop them.
Her gaze landed on Gilbert. Did you two have a fight?
No, Gilbert quickly denied, though his face betrayed his disappointment.
No?
Caroline smirked, seeing right through him. Do you know what she just called you? She said you were disgusting! Hearing this, Gilbert’s smile turned bitter. My fault. I upset her.
What?
Caroline was stunned. And you’re still defending her?
Big bro, Gilbert glanced at Francis. They couldn’t have gone far. I can catch up if I leave now.
Go on, Francis nodded.
Alright.
Gilbert turned and jumped into his car.
Gilbert! Caroline cried out in desperation.
Caroline.
Francis moved to block her path, his gaze intense.
Let it be, Caroline.
What? she faltered, confusion written all over her face. Let what be?
You know what I mean, Francis said, his expression serious.
I don’t understand! Caroline snapped back. If you have something to say, then say it clearly! Alright.
Francis nodded solemnly. Caroline,
Gilbert isn’t a backup plan. He’s not your safe harbor. He has someone
he loves, and a life he wants to live.
Was that clear enough?
You…
Caroline was speechless, her face
turning pale. Backup plan? Safe
What are you talking
helongs to
swno net
Francis sighed so softly it was almost inaudible, his words becoming sharper, sparing no feelings.
Maybe I misspoke. You do have feelings for Gilbert. But his heart isn’t with you. Let him go.
Isn’t Gilbert miserable enough?
After a childhood of abuse and upheaval, coming to the Johnson
family, living for me, for you… He’s nearly 30. Let him live for himself!
…
Beep beep.
A car horn sounded.
A sleek black Bentley blocked Sherilyn and Rebecca’s path.
Sherilyn!
Gilbert stepped out of the car, his gaze filled with hope and caution. Even his breathing seemed guarded.
Was I too slow? Couldn’t wait and took off? Get in the car, please?