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.

smile tugging at her lips. "Timothy... isn't this

said. "These vendors have it tough it's just a way to

but quickly returned as she accepted the rose, her mood visibly

fireworks show drew to

ready for the night to end; he

the lake, in a designated safe area, a few vendors were selling

the lakeside with Henry and Sheila, helping

Jessica left the old town, pausing outside to close her eyes and take

head-and to sneak a peek at the comic convention, hoping to catch a glimpse of

No such luck.

went, it seemed she couldn't escape

resolved to watch Ines from afar tomorrow, then leave town as

things, checked out, and booked a room

The next morning.

at

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

bear for Ines

one of the first guests inside; the exhibition hall was still

an excited voice rang

"Ines is here!"

quickly ducked