Goodbye, Mr. Regret

Jessica raised her hand, her tone calm and distant. "I have things to do."

"Go ahead, then," Timothy replied, making no attempt to stop her.

They hardly exchanged a handful of words, yet there was no anger between them for once, a rare and fragile sort of peace.

Perhaps that was why Timothy didn't dwell on it. He simply assumed she'd come for a follow-up on her throat.

Afterward, he headed to the DNA testing center and handed over the paperwork.

He'd provided a hair sample, but even with rush processing, it would take two or three business days.

The staff told him they'd text when the results were ready, so he could come pick up the paternity report in person.

With that done, Timothy had the driver take him to Jessica's apartment complex.

When they arrived, he didn't get out. Instead, he sat in the car, staring up at her floor from the parking lot.

He stayed there for a full hour before finally telling the driver to take him back to the Howard family home.

Jessica, were waiting when Timothy returned. As soon as he walked in, Sandra approached him. "You're well enough to use a wheelchair now. Why don't you go and bring Jessica

easy," Timothy said. He wanted to bring Jessica back, but she

upset, then apologize. Married couples should never let a

weren't as

see," he

won't let me meet your wife. Your mom never got the chance to meet her, but you

his mother brought a familiar ache to Timothy's

many letters, all meant for him and his

had been not living to

grow up, get married, and start families of

grew

In

feelings for Jessica. He'd hidden his marriage for seven years, never once bringing Jessica to meet his grandparents. Now, though, be seemed hesitant, conflicted. It was clear he didn't want to keep Jessica a secret anymore-but he

find time to apologize to her,"

should go now. The longer you leave it, the worse it gets. Go on, don't put