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

his phone, a small smile

right. Now you're worried-about

couldn't get to the office, he'd been

That's when Ines called.

Jessica away last time, Ines hadn't seen

Jessica today, but there was no answer, so she

Timothy picked up.

Jessica's marriage wasn't as perfect as she'd once thought, so she chose her words

didn't answer. Is

the country," he

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

agreed to let her work for

with Mr. Smith so Jessy

she'd already left the country. With his broken leg, Timothy was stuck in place; he figured he'd revisit the issue once he

her work

let her go on this business

good, then. Last time she mentioned... divorce..." Ines's voice was tinged with

"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