Goodbye, Mr. Regret

"You take care of it."

Mabel was momentarily caught off guard.

The daily meals at the house were always prepared by Mrs. Carter herself; all the chefs had been let go long ago.

Whenever there were guests, Mrs. Carter would handle the menu herself before heading out, leaving everything in perfect order.

But Mr. Carter's guests were people of considerable stature, and Mrs. Carter's homey, comforting dishes hardly seemed grand enough for such occasions.

"Ma'am, I'm not sure I can manage this..." Mabel said anxiously.

Jessica understood her worry, so she scribbled a note: "Don't worry. You can order something from the hotel. I'll cover the expense."

Timothy had given her a credit card-every month on the first, funds would be transferred in right on time.

It was meant for all household expenses at The Gilded Whisper Estates, including the staff's salaries.

Timothy had impeccable taste and spared no expense when it came to the home. The allowance he provided was always more than enough.

He certainly wasn't short on money, but Jessica never spent a penny more than she had to. Every transaction was meticulously recorded in her ledger.

She worked hard to fulfill her responsibilities, hoping he'd notice that she'd never been after his money, his status, or his name.

But what did it matter?

much she gave, he never seemed to see

fixed on her laptop, indifferent to the news of incoming guests. Not daring to say more, she quietly slipped out

things with joy, running the

the very image of a gracious, capable

Carter took on so much, Mabel's own workload was lighter. Now that Mrs. Carter no longer wanted

didn't complain-it was her job, after all. But she couldn't help worrying about the distance growing between Mr. and Mrs. Carter. This couldn't be

divorce agreement on her screen

Timothy to return. Tonight, they needed

***

Night fell.

long drive, headlights

Tonight, he'd invited Ines.

back from a meeting

how often Jessica used to help Henry with

little projects at

she'd surprised him by mentioning

valued Henry's work was, in large

to hear it,

him the perfect chance

she gazed