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.

my mom. If I go to the competition with someone else, everyone's going to ask questions. I don't want them to

break her heart. If you really don't want her to come, your dad or your aunt can go with you. But don't

you, why don't you stay a little longer? Jessica can't speak, and now that Henry's older, it's only natural he

"But..."

up, lips pressed together, struggling. "I really don't want to cause you any

however, took hold of her suitcase and, without a word, wheeled

Henry hurried after

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

set the suitcase down and looked at her, his

aren't like they were seven

skipped

Was he saying...?

Sheila, Dad says you can stay. Please, don't leave yet, okay?"

finally relented. "Alright.

out for

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

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

Three hours later.