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

your mother. She can't speak, but that's not her fault. If she knew you felt this way, it would break her heart. If you

for a moment, then said, "Sheila, since Henry needs you, why don't you stay a little longer? Jessica can't speak, and now that Henry's older, it's only natural he cares about what people

"But..."

together, struggling. "I really

however, took hold of her suitcase and, without a word, wheeled it toward the guest

and Henry hurried

fight with your family because of me. You know I'd feel awful

suitcase down and looked at her, his gaze

like

heart skipped a

Was he saying...?

Dad says you can stay. Please, don't leave yet,

then finally relented. "Alright. I'll stay for

to step out

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

second-floor balcony, watching as Timothy's Bentley glided down the driveway, the headlights fading into the

Three hours later.