Goodbye, Mr. Regret

Herbert's call was from his mother, reminding him to come home for dinner.

Jessica's call, on the other hand, came from Vince.

But Vince hung up almost immediately after dialing-he hadn't called to talk, just to nudge Jessica to check her messages.

[Jessica, are you still alone at your apartment?]

It was the night of the Thanksgiving Day. Vince figured that if Jessica wasn't joining the Lawson family, she'd probably be spending the holiday by herself, so he wanted to invite her over to the Zimmerman house.

While Herbert was on the phone, Jessica could tell from his tone that it was Mrs. Reynolds on the line. As soon as Herbert hung up, she quickly motioned for him to hurry home and waved him goodbye.

Once Herbert's car had pulled away, Jessica texted Vince back.

She didn't want Herbert's personal life or career to be affected because of her, so she told Vince the truth-she was spending the holiday alone at her apartment.

Vince's intention was clear: he wanted Jessica to come over for a family dinner to celebrate the holiday together.

Jessica didn't refuse. Vince told her to wait for him at the apartment complex entrance; he'd be there soon.

called Larkin to let him know that Jessica had agreed

was delighted, and immediately brought out the gift he'd been saving for

only Larkin and Vince lived at the Zimmerman house. Ever since Mrs. Zimmerman had fallen ill, she'd been receiving treatment overseas, and Vince had taken over running the family business. Their father was abroad with their mother, leaving the house feeling a little empty. That's why Larkin

picked Jessica up, but couldn't

at the Lawson estate

seemed she truly was planning to

Vince was driving, conversation was

eyes misted over as he saw Jessica. It was impossible not to think

by me,"

Jessica over and pulled out a chair for her like

barely sat down

It was Timothy.

had just arrived

a glimpse of Timothy's name

Jessica declined the