Goodbye, Mr. Regret

Jessica lifted her gaze to meet Timothy's eyes.

Timothy, for his part, seemed completely unfazed-his expression was as calm and composed as ever.

On the other end of the line, Ines was still speaking. "Anyway, I talked to Mr. Smith, and he's hoping you'll take on the role in his new film. Since Timothy is there too, why don't you both discuss it and let Mr. Smith know what you decide?"

Timothy saw no need for Jessica to say anything further-Ines had laid everything out clearly.

He replied for Jessica, "Alright. We'll get back to you as soon as possible."

"Great. It's getting late, so I'll let you go."

With that, Ines hung up.

A heavy silence settled between them before Timothy finally spoke. "Ines told me tonight that you've been preparing seriously for this-wanting to take on the character in Mr. Smith's new movie."

Jessica shot Timothy a cold, measured look, her hands moving in practiced sign language. "So you came all the way out here tonight just to talk this over with me?"

"More or less," Timothy admitted without hesitation.

He didn't realize that his honesty was like a knife, digging deep into Jessica's heart.

much about

again, he was asking Jessica to

you want?" Jessica's signing

see just how far Timothy would go to

was here to talk about Sheila's role. The other part-he was here

a time for family to come

got three

into a

of him-three

You don't need to work hard to succeed; whether you choose to work or

are convinced you're the perfect fit for this character. Sheila's talent isn't lacking, but if you agree, I can talk to Mr. Smith and have you

I'll finance a new animated film for Sheila, something tailored

slowly and deliberately.

at him for a long moment, then suddenly

froze, his brow furrowed in confusion

thought he'd been reasonable, offering her

Jessica's laughter carried a

hands again. "Why are you so good