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 kept it

the need for

was still

both of them present tonight, it was the perfect

ago, Ines might have tried to persuade

with money and status no longer issues, those arguments meant

Ines could appeal

her grandmother was

away, her grandmother had asked Jessica to carry on her

thought, that was the way to

and out of the country, Ines still hadn't found another animator who could create work

talent-her creative spark-was nearly impossible

She needed Jessica.

desperately needed artists who could blend Eastern flair with international

want

entire drive, Ines was

determine whether Sheila could become her student, Timothy's attitude toward Jessica had

tea and handed

He draped one arm

her with his other hand as he

like?" His voice was low and gentle,

way he leaned in, it was as if he was sheltering