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."

door and found Jessica hunched over her computer, fully

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

you.

of the mouse and glanced

you agreed

many things and never followed through, every single time. Why should I go? I'm afraid if I do, I won't

"Alright. Got it."

Jessica

calls and messages from Timothy. She glanced at them, then

Vince called Timothy back.

not coming. She said she's afraid if she

she won't get stuck. She can

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

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 a

by, anxiety clawed at him. He tried

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