Goodbye, Mr. Regret

"Timothy, if she won't answer your call, it won't make a difference if you ring me instead. Even if I hand her the phone, she still won't pick up."

"She might not have heard it. We agreed-tonight, six o'clock, dinner at The Silverthread Eatery."

Vince checked his watch-it was already eight.

If Jessica had actually promised Timothy, she would have shown up. Or maybe

she had said yes just to avoid a confrontation, never intending to go.

"Stop waiting for her."

They were both sharp; Timothy wasn't that naïve.

"She promised me. She's never lied to me before. She'll come, I know she will- just tell her for me."

Vince frowned. Had that recent surgery dulled Timothy's senses? This was so obvious-how could he not see it?

"I'll go check. Gotta go."

Vince headed upstairs and knocked on Jessica's door.

"Come in."

found Jessica hunched over her

animation. There was no sign she intended to

you. He even called

of the mouse and glanced at Vince.

you agreed

and never followed through, every single time. Why should I go? I'm afraid if

"Alright. Got it."

the room. Jessica picked

from Timothy. She glanced at them, then

Vince called Timothy back.

She said she's afraid if she goes, she won't be able to come

get stuck.

lost his patience. "Timothy, think about it-how many times have you made promises and not kept them? Is it really so strange she doesn't trust you anymore? Are you just going to sit there and guilt-trip her until she gives in? That old trick again-using her sense of responsibility to

farewell dinner, Henry's here too.

anxiety clawed at him. He tried to keep

want to talk to you anymore. You're just trying