Whispers Turn

Chapter 477

“Caroline!”

In that instant, Francis saw the madness in her eyes!

He handed James over to Sylvia, “James, be a good boy,Daddy has something to take care of. Stay with great–grandma, okay?”

Then he turned to Sylvia, murmuring, “Grandma…”

“I know, I know.” Sylvia didn’t need any explanation. “Go on, don’t worry. James is safe with me.”

“Thank you, Grandma!”

“That’s enough.”

Sylvia hugged a puzzled James, comforting him tenderly, “Don’t be scared, James. This is grown–up stuff, it’s got nothing to do with you. Let’s go home, okay?”

Children are perceptive, and James could feel Sylvia’s genuine affection, obediently nodding in agreement.

“Such a good boy, let’s go.”

Caroline stormed out of the house, jumped into her car, and drove off recklessly.

The orphanage was located on the western hills of the city, a region characterized by its hilly terrain. By the time Francis and his team set out, Caroline had vanished without a trace.

It was a rough night for Francis.

He was still in recovery, having awoken from a years–long coma only a few months ago. Now, both his legs and head were throbbing with pain.

Sawyer could see he was struggling. “Mr. Francis, perhaps you should head back. I’ll find Ms. Bennett.”

Francis‘ brows furrowed, a storm brewing in his eyes. “I’m afraid she won’t come back with you even if you do find her.”

There was no arguing with that.

Meanwhile, Sylvia had put James in the car and, seeing her grandson’s predicament, walked over.

“Francis, you can’t push yourself like this. Come back with me.”

“But, Grandma…”

Without hesitation, Sylvia commanded Sawyer, “Call Gilbert. Caroline might not listen to Sawyer, but she’ll listen to Gilbert.”

The last part was directed at Francis.

“Grandma,” Francis hesitated. “it’s too much trouble for Gilbert, it’s late, and besides, this is my issue…”

“Don’t be so formal.” Sylvia wouldn’t hear of it. “We’re all family here. Do you think Gilbert would rest easy if something happened to you? Just listen.”

She glared at Sawyer. “What are you waiting for? Hurry up.”

“Yes, ma’am!”

Around 3 or 4 in the morning, deep in sleep.

Gilbert was rudely awakened by the ringing of his phone! He glanced at Sherilyn sleeping beside him.

Given her light sleep, she was already stirring.

With her eyes still closed, she murmured, “Take it outside.”

“Alright.”

Gilbert, phone in hand, tiptoed out of the room. “Sawyer, what’s up?”

“Mr. Gilbert.”

Sawyer recounted the events apologetically, “Mr. Francis is exhausted, and Lady Sylvia suggested we reach out to you. Sorry to disturb your rest.”

After hearing him out, Gilbert massaged his temples.

“I’ll be right there. It’s no bother. I’m on my way.”

“Thank you, Mr. Gilbert.”

After hanging up, Gilbert let out a heavy sigh. For his brother, for Caroline, he was duty–bound, but…

How would he explain this to Sherilyn?

He went back inside and sat on the edge of the bed, hesitating before speaking up, “Sherilyn.”

Sherilyn, with her back to him and eyes tightly shut, said, “Is it over? Can we sleep now? Turn off the light, it’s glaring.”

“Sherilyn.” Gilbert sounded troubled, “I… need to step out for a bit.”

“Sherilyn suddenly opened her eyes and turned around. “Now?”

“Yes,” Gilbert held her hand gently, his voice soft, “It’s about big brother. He’s run into some trouble.”

“What happened to Francis?”

Sherilyn couldn’t help but ask, as Francis was also her family. “Is he feeling unwell?”