Goodbye, Mr. Regret

"We've just arrived at the restaurant. Are you free to join us?"

Ines had been longing to see Jessica. She answered immediately, "Of course. Just send me the address."

"I'll text it to you right now."

Ines hung up, feeling a surge of relief.

Thank goodness.

Last time, she'd sent Jessica three or four long messages, only to get a single reply: *I'm sorry, Professor.*

After that, Ines hadn't pushed any further.

But she still hoped for a chance to talk to Jessica face to face.

Seven years of marriage, and their son was already six.

Jessica had married Timothy. With Timothy's financial standing, there was really

no need for her to be a stay-at-home mom if she didn't want to be.

On her last visit to The Gilded Whisper Estates, Ines saw it for herself-staff everywhere, the house immaculate.

Jessica's past was still a mystery to Timothy.

Jessica herself

because Timothy didn't see the need for Jessica

believed there was still room

of them present tonight, it was the

years ago, Ines might have tried to persuade Jessica from a

man, with money and status no longer issues, those arguments

Ines could appeal

confided that her grandmother was

passed away, her grandmother had asked Jessica to carry

was the way to reach

all her travels in and out of the country, Ines still hadn't found another animator who could

spark-was nearly impossible to

She needed Jessica.

They desperately needed artists who could blend Eastern flair

want

entire drive, Ines was

Ines was coming, and because this might determine whether Sheila

the tea and

beside Timothy. He draped one arm

with his other hand as he flipped

His voice was low

leaned in, it was as if he was sheltering Jessica in the curve