Goodbye, Mr. Regret

Sandra's eyes glowed with pride and approval.

Sallie, on the other hand, just rolled her eyes. She couldn't see the appeal of those paper-cut artworks-she had no idea what was going through these old folks' minds, but they all seemed to love it.

She thought, It's just a mute girl, is it really worth all this attention?

Abell had the paper-cutting sent to his study, and once the housekeepers announced dinner was ready, everyone made their way to the dining room.

Sandra made a point of seating Jessica beside her, with Timothy on Jessica's other side, clearly hoping to give their marriage a little boost.

If that silly spat between them could be settled tonight with a real conversation, all the better.

Vince took the seat directly across from Jessica. He'd promised her that if Timothy stepped out of line, he'd make sure she was safe. He hoped the evening would be uneventful-get her here, then get her out again in one piece.

Timothy hadn't said a single word to Jessica since they'd arrived. Sandra was the one making conversation with her. During dinner, Sandra even nudged Timothy, saying, "Go on, help Jessy to some food."

liked and placed them on

scene

title that had become a burden. At home, she hardly dared to

more days, she told herself.

but never saying a word. Sandra and Abell,

refuse Timothy's

couldn't help but bring up the rift between them. Taking Jessica's hand in hers, she spoke earnestly: "Marriage isn't easy. A little friction is inevitable. Timothy can be a bit cold, I know,

to smooth things over,

had no idea the rift was so

had no intention of keeping it from the elders. There was no "minor disagreement"-they really were getting a divorce.

Timothy and me isn't just a small argument. We're getting a divorce. I hadn' planned to come tonight, but since he asked Mr. Zimmerman, Tagreed so as not to make things difficult for him. This is my first time at the Howard house, and it'll also be my last. Later, I'll have Vince

handed the phone