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 Sheila's

once again, he was

what do you want?" Jessica's signing

see just how far Timothy would go to negotiate on Sheila's

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

for family to come together,

three proposals,"

into a

thoughtful of him-three

than hers. You have me. You don't need to work hard to succeed; whether you choose to

for reasons I don't quite understand, both Ines and Mr. Smith 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 guide her let the two

I'll finance a new animated film for Sheila, something tailored entirely to her own

three options, speaking slowly and deliberately. "So what do you

a

brow furrowed in confusion as

he'd been reasonable,

Jessica's laughter carried

raised her hands again. "Why are you