Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change?

Sherilyn led Edgar to the bustling snack alley in the backstreets of the film and TV theme park, which also served as a tourist attraction. NôvelDrama.Org: text © owner.

The air was filled with the enticing aromas of various street foods, each stall vying for attention with its unique offerings.

"Anything in particular you want to try?" she asked, her eyes scanning the vibrant displays.

"Just get whatever you like," Edgar replied, more interested in the company than the food.

Sherilyn decided. "Let's get some blueberry pies. With the weather getting chilly, nothing beats warm, freshly made pies."

"Sounds good to me," Edgar agreed, appreciating the thought.

Sherilyn called out to the vendor, "Two blueberry pies, please!"

"Coming right up!" the vendor responded cheerfully.

After paying, Sherilyn proudly held up the two steaming pies and handed one to Edgar. Misunderstanding her gesture, Edgar leaned in and took a big bite right from her hand, only to yelp at the unexpected heat.

"Hot, hot, hot!"

Despite the discomfort, he couldn't bring himself to spit it out since Sherilyn had bought it. Grimacing, he covered his mouth, trying to cool the burning sensation.

Sherilyn couldn't help but laugh at his flustered reaction, earning a mock glare from Edgar, his words muffled, "You're laughing at me?"

"No, of course not..." she said, trying to keep a straight face. "Is it good, though?"

"Mhm," Edgar managed, his expression softening. "Sweet and warm."

Just like her.

...

The next evening at the Platinum Pearl Club, Gilbert and Derek were already engaged in a game of pool when Yates Elliott walked in, with Edgar trailing behind him.

Gilbert shot Edgar a curious look. Wasn't he supposed to be with Sherilyn? Don't couples usually have plans in the evening?

"Gilbert, Derek," Edgar greeted them, then turned to Derek with a serious expression. "About Sherilyn, I owe you one. Any idea what your aunt likes? I want to prepare a thank-you gift."

Derek was momentarily puzzled. "Sherilyn? What gift? I'm lost here."

"The dance troupe thing," Edgar clarified. "Thanks to your mother, Sherilyn's back with her group."

Oh?

Derek was surprised; he hadn't heard about this. Glancing at Gilbert, he saw no reaction from him, just continued focus on his pool game.

"No worries, it's nothing," Derek assured him, a knowing smile on his lips.

"If you insist," Edgar replied, chuckling. "But I'll have to figure something out on my own then."

As Edgar went to consult Yates, Derek eyed Gilbert with a teasing look. "What's the story, Mr. Gilbert, playing the anonymous benefactor?"

Gilbert didn't bite, keeping his attention on the game. "Why bother with names?"

"So it was you," Derek mused, intrigued. "Planning to keep it a secret from Sherilyn?"

"What's the point in telling her?"

"Not even for a thank you?" Derek probed, genuinely surprised.

Gilbert scoffed lightly. "What good would that do? Is she going to leave Edgar and come running back to me?"

"That's unlikely." Derek shrugged. "At least she'd be grateful, remember you fondly?"

Gilbert shook his head dismissively. "Gratitude? I don't need it."

Is that so? Derek thought, narrowing his eyes. "Then why go through all this trouble? Can't let go?"

Gilbert continued playing, silent.

"You still care for her, don't you?" Derek concluded, though he knew better than to expect an answer.