Goodbye, Mr. Regret

"Timothy."

Sheila called his name softly.

Timothy turned around.

Fireworks exploded overhead, casting a bright glow across the park. Timothy glanced back toward the spot where he thought he'd seen Jessica, but she was gone.

In the flicker of light and shadow, Jessica had already slipped into the crowd.

Blinking, Timothy scanned the area, his sharp features tightening with concern as he searched for any sign of her.

Sheila noticed him looking around and glanced about as well, puzzled. "Timothy, did you spot someone you know?"

"No," he replied, his voice flat.

Just then, a street vendor approached with a basket of roses, his pitch practiced and cheerful. "Sir, these roses are fresh this evening. Roses symbolize rare beauty-why not buy one for your wife? It means she's one of a kind, and shows just how deep and sincere your feelings are."

Sheila was about to refuse, but Timothy was already reaching for his wallet. He handed the vendor a few bills and accepted a single rose.

Up above, more fireworks lit the sky. Jessica found them dazzling, almost painfully bright. The display wasn't as lovely or romantic as she'd imagined. Maybe it was romantic, but that feeling belonged to someone else.

She turned and walked away.

Timothy offered the rose to Sheila.

at her lips. "Timothy...

vendors have it tough it's just a way to support

smile faltered for a second, but quickly returned as she accepted the

show drew to a

night to end; he wanted to light some

designated safe area, a few vendors were selling sparklers and small

bought a generous handful and spent the evening at the lakeside with

pausing outside to close her eyes and take a

peek at the comic convention, hoping to catch a glimpse

No such luck.

it seemed she couldn't escape

to watch Ines from afar tomorrow,

her hotel, Jessica packed her things,

The next morning.

at the Oakwood

leaving her new hotel, she'd gone to some lengths to disguise herself: sunhat, sunglasses, mask-her face completely

for Ines to

inside; the exhibition hall

excited voice

"Ines is here!"

quickly ducked behind a