Goodbye, Mr. Regret

Mabel opened her mouth as if to speak, then hesitated, swallowing her words.

Timothy's handsome features were set in a cold, irritated scowl. "Out with it, Mabel. All at once."

She fidgeted, lowering her gaze. "I just think... Mrs. Lawson hasn't seemed herself lately."

As a housekeeper, Mabel had learned to hold her tongue, even when she was bursting with frustration.

Timothy's patience was wearing thin. "And what exactly am I supposed to do with that? You're not telling me anything new."

Mabel let out a quiet sigh. The real reason was obvious—wasn't all this because of Sheila? Even she, a mere servant, could see it. How could Mr. Lawson be so blind?

"Sir, maybe you should ask your sister," she suggested gently. "She was with Henry at the hospital today, and Mrs. Lawson only came by later in the evening."

"That's enough. Go home, Mabel. I'll stay with Henry."

Once Mabel had left, Timothy pulled out his phone, preparing to call Sallie. Before he could dial, Sheila's voice drifted from inside the hospital room.

"Timothy?"

slipped his phone back into

have any dinner. I was about to go find something for

it,"

late now—almost nine o'clock. He didn't go far, just chose a nearby restaurant and picked up food for three. He and Sheila hadn't had dinner yet either, so this

sick and irritable. Mabel had done her best to comfort him, but without his parents by his side, the

it was their company, or maybe his spirits had lifted, but he ended up polishing off a bowlful, eating more heartily than he had all day. After dinner,

can't go on. Henry's still so young, and he needs his mother. Is something going on between you and Jessica?

clear on

who left. I've done everything I could-talked, pleaded,

she feels neglected. Listen to me: go to her. Find

thin line. After a

and

watched him go, letting out a long breath. She'd been back for days now, and it was clear Timothy