Goodbye, Mr. Regret

"I just hope we hear something this time."

Over the years, Mrs. Zimmerman's health had steadily declined. Now, her face looked more drawn and frail than ever.

Vince's heart ached for her. "Mom, we'll find my little sister. I promise."

He didn't dare let himself hope too much, but it was all he could do to comfort her.

Ever since his sister went missing, their mother's health had only gotten worse. There had been several times when the doctors warned them she might not make it through the night.

But she clung to that one obsession in her heart. Again and again, she'd pulled through against the odds, yet her body grew weaker with each ordeal. Now, she was truly at her limit.

Vince could only say these words, wishing his mother would hold on just a little longer.

Knowing he had just arrived, Mrs. Zimmerman didn't keep Vince for long. She sent him off to get some rest.

Vince had barely laid down when his phone buzzed. It was Timothy calling.

"Did you see her yet?"

Vince groaned. "You're relentless. I just got here, finally took a shower, and I'm trying to get over the jet lag. Can't you let me sleep first? I'm exhausted."

Beep. Beep. Beep.

already

at his phone, a

right. Now you're

he'd been handling business

That's when Ines called.

took Jessica away last time, Ines hadn't seen her

no answer, so she called Timothy instead. She

Timothy picked up.

that Timothy and Jessica's marriage wasn't as perfect as she'd once

didn't answer. Is something going on

of the country," he

was his own mess, and he didn't really want to explain

to let

was to coordinate with Mr. Smith

already left the country. With his broken leg, Timothy was stuck in place; he figured he'd revisit the issue once he could get around again. In the meantime, at least she could

work

let her go on this

Last time she mentioned... divorce..." Ines's voice was

said quietly. "When I married her, I never even considered it. Things have been messy at home, and we've been at odds, but I'll talk to her. Ines, don't