Nope.
Gilbert shook his head, a mix of frustration and resignation in his eyes. Naylor and One, they’re not the kind to be easily fooled…
Then, his face brightened a bit with a wry smile. But it’s worth it, for Jenna’s sake. I mean, heck, even if I lost this finger, it’d be the least I owe her…
His words seemed to strike a chord with Sherilyn, who suddenly stood up, her voice tinged with indignation.
You think this makes up for everything?
I know it doesn’t! That’s not what I’m trying to do!
Gilbert was clearly flustered, his face paling.
He hurried to explain, I’m just worried sick about Jenna. With One being a complete psycho, there’s no telling what he might do to her. Every second she’s with him, she’s in more danger. I can’t gamble with Jenna’s safety… He continued, It’s not about making amends or proving anything…
Sherilyn closed her eyes for a moment, realizing she might have overreacted.
Crumpling the tissue in her hand, she tossed it into the trash can. You’re sweating buckets. Let me get you a towel.
With that, she turned and headed for the bathroom.
Gilbert watched her go, his heart heavy with unsaid feelings….
The pain lasted all night but started to subside as dawn approached.
Doctors did say the pain tends to get worse at night.
Feeling any better? Sherilyn asked, noticing his somewhat eased expression. Try and get some sleep now.
Yeah… Gilbert nodded, then hesitated.
What’s wrong? Sherilyn asked, puzzled.
Gilbert frowned, muttering, Sweat… everywhere. It’s uncomfortable. Can’t sleep well.
His hospital gown was soaked through with sweat.
Want me to get you a clean one?
Please.
Sherilyn went to the closet and brought back a fresh hospital gown. With his left hand out of commission, she didn’t think twice about helping him change. She began to unbutton his gown but stopped after the second button, suddenly aware of the intimacy of the gesture.
Sherilyn blinked, feeling a bit awkward. Since we’re changing your clothes, maybe we should wipe you down too. It’s not a bath but it’ll feel refreshing.
Sounds good, Gilbert agreed with a weak smile.
Alright, I’ll call the nurse in then…
As she turned to leave, Gilbert’s hand caught hers.
Wait!
What is it? Sherilyn looked back, confused.
Gilbert’s brow was furrowed, his usual smile gone. Why call the nurse?
To help you wash up and get changed, Sherilyn replied, genuinely puzzled. Wasn’t that obvious?
Gilbert looked both annoyed and embarrassed. The nurse is a woman!
And? Sherilyn was taken aback. I know. What’s the problem? She’s in her late forties, practically an aunt. She was about the same age as Gilbert’s mother.
I don’t want that!
Gilbert’s stubbornness was on full display, his brow furrowed in
determination. Forget it. I won net
YOUMS
wash or change. I’ll just sleep like this.
Sherilyn was at a loss for words. What’s with the attitude? What do you want, exactly?
Aren’t you here? Gilbert shot back, not mincing his words. Can’t you do it?
Her?
Sherilyn was momentarily speechless, caught between realization and disbelief.
Then, she couldn’t help but laugh, a light, teasing sound. Gilbert, are you being coy with me?
Yeah. Gilbert’s lips were a tight line, but he admitted it without hesitation.
Ha!
Sherilyn couldn’t hold back her laughter, though it was laced with a hint of mockery.