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."

Jessica

moved closer, he saw she was working on an animation. There was no sign she intended to leave for dinner-besides, she'd

looking for you. He

mouse and glanced

you agreed

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

"Alright. Got it."

left the room. Jessica

calls and messages from Timothy. She glanced at them,

Vince called Timothy back.

if she goes, she won't be able

she won't get stuck. She can leave whenever she

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

a farewell dinner, Henry's here too. We even got her a gift. Tomorrow we finalize

ticked by, anxiety clawed at him. He tried to keep himself

you anymore. You're just trying