Goodbye, Mr. Regret

Jessica returned to the hotel earlier than planned.

She'd thought about switching to a different hotel, but realized it didn't matter—if Timothy could track her down here, he'd find her anywhere.

So, she decided not to bother.

Maybe it was the weight of her emotions, but as soon as she got back, a dull ache started in her abdomen and wouldn't let up.

She took her medication, but it didn't help much.

Now, she lay on the bed, unable to sleep-pain gnawing at her, keeping her wide awake.

Meanwhile, Timothy's call was cut off the moment he dialed.

That's when it struck him: Jessica had blocked his number.

A strange, hollow ache settled in his chest.

He turned back to the hospital room, checked Henry's forehead with a hand towel -only to find it was already warm.

He quickly wrung out a fresh towel, folded it, and placed it gently on Henry's brow. Then, slipping Henry's smartwatch from his wrist, Timothy stepped into the hallway and tried Jessica's number once more.

Jessica's phone buzzed.

The caller ID said Henry.

She froze, gripping the phone tightly.

end,

fill the role of 'Mom.' What

was

let him

the endless ringing on the speakerphone, until the

have lost

wouldn't even answer

were as deep and cold as

gone out of his way to buy her that voice-activated ring, even brought

small gesture of apology

branch, she just kept pushing him

Unbelievable.

room and sat by Henry's side, tending

a long,

fever had finally subsided, though a mild temperature lingered. At

gathered the towels and washbasin, tidied up the room, and carried everything into the bathroom.

at Timothy's drawn face and spoke up, worry etched in her voice. "Timothy, you haven't

He just nodded.

obvious. "Go home and get some rest. I'll

it," he said

really get some sleep. And if you run into Jessica, be

the mention of Jessica, Timothy's lips pressed

her any