Goodbye, Mr. Regret

"What are you two plotting over there? Cooking up some shady business?"

Herbert was furious, but Jessica firmly pushed him out the door before he could protest.

Not wanting to make things harder for her, Herbert kept his mouth shut. As he brushed past Sallie, he shot her a brief, indifferent glance.

Sallie crossed her arms and let out a cold snort.

This guy's got guts, she thought. The nerve to look at me like that.

If she weren't set on dealing with Jessica, she would've dragged Herbert outside for a one-on-one.

After Herbert left, Sallie narrowed her eyes at Jessica, her voice icy. "Come outside. We need to talk."

Jessica didn't hesitate, stepping forward as Sallie stormed ahead.

Once outside The Silverthread Eatery, Jessica slid into the passenger seat of Sallie's sports car.

Sallie floored the gas, taking Jessica straight to her upscale downtown apartment.

to bring two cups of coffee, then sat down beside Jessica, legs crossed, exuding

on between you

on her phone: Childhood

was considering divorce from Timothy,

Herbert came from a good family, but in Riverside City, who

learns sign language unless it's for someone special? I have to say, you're full of surprises. A mute, but apparently quite

calm demeanor cracked as she

are just childhood neighbors. If you don't believe me, go check

the reply, then met Jessica's determined gaze, lips curling into a mocking smile. "As if you'd have the guts! You're married with a child now, Jessica. Next time, don't let me catch you getting so

Of course.

people like the Lawsons-face

got only the barest

Can't I have a friend, a neighbor? Am I supposed to

you supposed to cling to if not your husband and son? Don't test my patience, Jessica, or I'll tell Timothy

came fast: Do whatever

done

Timothy wanted to make