Goodbye, Mr. Regret

Timothy walked over, concern etched on his face.

"What's wrong?"

"Timothy, talk to Henry for me, will you? I really have to go back home."

Sheila looked pale and anxious.

Timothy's voice grew gentle. "Is this about the news today?"

"Timothy, we..." Sheila turned away, struggling for words. "I don't want to be a burden to you anymore. My father just called-he's arranged a marriage for me. He wants me to come home and meet the man."

"Miss Sheila, please don't leave, okay? My teacher recommended me for the children's arts competition, and I want you there with me..."

Henry clung to Sheila's hand, his voice trembling with tears.

Sheila's eyes filled with tenderness. She knelt down and gently wiped away Henry's tears.

"Henry, it's not that I don't want to be there for you. I've already delayed my trip for days. Your great-grandfather keeps urging me to come back. But if I get the chance, I promise I'll visit again, alright?"

Henry turned hopefully toward Timothy.

thought she was my mom. If I go to the competition with someone else, everyone's going to ask questions. I don't want them to find out that my real

break her heart. If you really

moment, then said, "Sheila, since Henry needs you, why don't you stay a little

"But..."

stood up, lips pressed together, struggling. "I really

suitcase and, without a word, wheeled it toward the guest

Henry

family because of me. You

the suitcase down and looked at

aren't like

skipped a

Was he saying...?

can stay. Please, don't leave

finally relented.

out for a bit," Timothy

the master bedroom. From his own suitcase, he pulled out a velvet box containing the Voice

watching as Timothy's Bentley glided down the driveway, the headlights

Three hours later.