Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change?

With a fire burning in his chest, Gilbert barely contained his restlessness. So, the words just spilled out.

“What?”

Glancing at Edgar and Yates not too far away, Derek stumbled over his words, “No way, are you serious?”

Why did Derek look shocked?

Gilbert gritted his teeth and snapped back, “Not really.”

Was it worth getting that scared?

“Ouch,” Derek dramatically clutched at his heart. “Come on, what's true and what's not here?”

“You tell me?” Gilbert smirked, a hint of sarcasm in his voice.

“As you said, it's a mutual affection. What's the point in me stepping in?”

“True.” All content © N/.ôvel/Dr/ama.Org.

Derek agreed, patting him on the shoulder, “Forced love is never sweet. Forget it, there are plenty of fish in the sea.”

“Yeah.”

Gilbert nodded and walked away.

“Hey, where are you off to?”

“Out! To grab a smoke!”

He needed to quell the fire inside him; he had no idea what he might end up doing otherwise.

...

The show was a massive hit.

Success didn't come overnight, but a single performance can skyrocket someone to fame.

With last night's show and the media buzz, Sherilyn's first step was deemed successful.

Even Daphne showed her a rare smile. “Not bad, Sherilyn, you didn't disappoint me.”

“Thank you, Ms. Hansen.” Sherilyn knew her hard work was crucial, but so was the platform she was given.

Not every hardworking, talented individual gets a chance to shine.

“It’s your own merit.”

Daphne gestured for her to come closer. “Next, I plan to include Sea Breeze Swing in the tour setlist.”

A tour? A world tour?

Sherilyn was thrilled. Could she really get such an opportunity so soon?

“I called you here to remind you not to slack off. If you tarnish your reputation before the tour, you're out.”

“Of course!”

How could Sherilyn miss such an opportunity?

“Ms. Hansen, don't worry, I'll dance my heart out. I won't let my guard down!”

“Alright, off you go.” Daphne smiled, waving her off.

Backing Sherilyn into this position was a risky move for her, especially since her husband had taken a favor from Gilbert.

Thankfully, Sherilyn was up to the task.

In a way, she felt grateful to her.

Otherwise, her lifetime's reputation could have been ruined.

Upon receiving the news, Sherilyn meticulously reviewed the tour itinerary and noticed it included Crestwood.

Hadn't the Lightning Dance Troupe performed in Crestwood before?

Wouldn't this mean she could see Jenna again?

That evening, Edgar picked her up from the dance company.

There was no performance today.

This time, Edgar chose a fancier restaurant to celebrate her successful show.

Sherilyn considered it and didn't refuse.

Cozyroom, a western-style restaurant.

Sitting across from each other at a cherry wood dining table, the dishes hadn't arrived yet. Sherilyn sipped on water, gathering her thoughts.

Looking up at Edgar, she began, “Edgar.”

“What?” Edgar looked surprised, sensing she had something serious to say.

“Yes?” Sherilyn nodded, having pondered over her words for days.

He looked worried, perhaps fearing rejection.

“You can tell me.”

Taking a deep breath, Sherilyn spoke honestly, “I can sense your sincerity, so I must be clear with you.”

Edgar swallowed nervously, “Go ahead.”

Sherilyn took a deep breath and said, "Right now, I'm not ready to think about dating someone."