Goodbye, Mr. Regret

Jessica's hands were full, making conversation impossible.

But Herbert could already guess what she wanted to say.

"Wondering why I'm here?" he asked with a half-smile.

Jessica nodded.

"I came to visit my grandfather's grave, and thought I'd stop by your grandmother's too. I can't even count how many meals she made for me when I was a kid."

Of course, the real reason was to keep Jessica company.

He knew today was the Thanksgiving Day, and Jessica would be here to pay respects to her grandmother and mother.

Herbert reached out, taking the offerings and flowers from Jessica's arms. “Let's do this together."

He loaded the items into the trunk, then opened the car door for her.

Once they were inside, Jessica began sharing her morning's speech therapy practice. She admitted it was still tough—even the simplest sounds wouldn't come out right.

started treatment yet. The test results show your nerves have healed much more than before, which is why you're suddenly

years. If her body was healing on its own, maybe her chances of speaking again were much higher

into her palm-a silent thank

have to take his eyes off

Herbert's car all the way to the

Herbert and Jessica got out and walked together to the

she was visiting the cemetery with another man, President Lawson would probably lose

Jessica finished paying their respects, Secretary

Lawson asked me to drive you back to Riverside City as soon as

signed, **Tell him I'm not going

helpless. "Mrs. Lawson, I don't understand

says to tell President Lawson she won't be coming back

around Jessica's shoulders and steered

urgent. "Mrs. Lawson, President Lawson was very clear-he wants

make things harder for him. She took