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

was working on an animation. There was no sign she intended to leave for dinner-besides, she'd already eaten at

for you.

the mouse

said you agreed to

But I lied. He's promised me so many things and never followed through, every single time. Why should I go? I'm afraid if I do,

"Alright. Got it."

the room. Jessica

from Timothy. She glanced at them, then set the

Vince called Timothy back.

afraid if she goes, she won't be able to

stuck. She

kept them? Is it really so strange she doesn't trust you anymore? Are you just going

a shaky breath. "That's not it. I told her-it's just a farewell dinner, Henry's here too. We even got her a gift. Tomorrow we finalize the divorce. One last dinner together,

as each minute ticked by, anxiety clawed at him. He tried to

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