Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change? novel Chapter 1141

"Hey!"

Joyce jolted up from her chair, standing as straight as a soldier at attention.

"Yes, yes, I got it! I'm coming back right now! Don't be mad, okay? Bye!"

She hung up the phone.

"What’s going on?"

Galen asked, concern etched on his face. "Is it the hospital again? Do they need you?"

"No," Joyce shook her head, a wry smile on her lips. "It's my parents. They've found out I'm back."

Galen had a vague idea about this. Joyce had returned from abroad without telling her parents.

"So, what now?"

"What else can I do?" Joyce sighed, rubbing her forehead. "There's no escaping it. I have to face them sooner or later."

She took a deep breath and picked up her purse from the chair.

"I'll go back and explain things to them."

She looked over at Galen. "Can you give me a ride?"

"Sure." Galen nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. This time, she was the one asking for his help.

Truth be told, he liked the feeling of being needed by her.

"Hang on, I’ll go settle the bill first."

"Oh shoot!"

Joyce smacked her forehead, suddenly remembering they hadn't paid for their meal. She wanted to call out to Galen, but he was already heading to the cashier.

"Sorry about that."

When he returned, Joyce apologized sheepishly, "I was supposed to treat you. How much was it? I'll transfer the money to you."

"No need," Galen shook his head, refusing to accept her money.

"Next time, okay? This one's on me, and next time you can treat me."

Clever, wasn't he? If she owed him a treat, there'd be another chance for them to meet.

"Alright then."

Joyce agreed readily, not seeing anything amiss. "I'll treat you next time!"

"I'll hold you to it." Galen raised an eyebrow, feeling quite pleased with himself.

With that, Galen drove Joyce to the Coopers' place.

"I'm going in. You can head out. Drive safely."