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."

and found Jessica hunched over her

was no sign she intended to leave for dinner-besides,

Timothy's looking for you. He

of the mouse and glanced at

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, I

"Alright. Got it."

left the room. Jessica picked up her

She glanced at

Vince called Timothy back.

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

won't get stuck.

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

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 a

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

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