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.

you brought Miss Sheila to school for the parent-child event, my classmates and teacher all 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

would break her heart. If you really don't want

stay a little longer? Jessica can't speak, and now

"But..."

"I really don't want to cause

took hold of her suitcase and, without

Henry

family because of me.

looked at her, his gaze steady

Things aren't like they were seven

skipped

Was he saying...?

Sheila, Dad says you can stay. Please,

relented. "Alright. I'll stay

to step out

but a moment later returned and went into the master bedroom. From his own suitcase, he pulled out a velvet box containing the Voice Emitting

on the second-floor balcony, watching as Timothy's Bentley glided down the driveway,

Three hours later.