Goodbye, Mr. Regret

"We'll pick up the divorce papers the day after tomorrow. Let's have one last dinner together tomorrow."

Timothy just wanted to see her again-he was worried that once they divorced, he might never get the chance.

She insisted on leaving. The decision was final, and even though he wanted nothing less, he'd chosen to grant her wish.

Jessica's voice was cool, almost detached. "And you really think I'd ever trust you again?"

Every time she agreed to go back with him, he'd find a way to keep her from leaving. Once, twice-it was always the same story.

Her trust in him was gone, completely.

"This time will be different. I promise. Just trust me, okay? Just this once?"

Jessica paused, silent and thoughtful, before she finally said, "Fine."

Let's see how you like being played.

She agreed, but she had no intention of showing up.

"Tomorrow night. Six o'clock. The Silverthread Eatery."

It was Timothy's fourth day after surgery. The doctor said he was recovering well and could be discharged in five to seven days, but insisted he stay for a full week.

He negotiated: it would just be a quick dinner out, and a short trip to the courthouse the next day. He'd come right back after.

The doctor relented.

Secretary Allen, instructing him to sponsor the fireworks show at The Silverthread

dreamed of having dinner there

couldn't give her bridal photos. He couldn't give her

As for the ring...

opened his palm, revealing the

would've chosen such a gaudy

planning the wedding, he'd made

family ought to have at least one last supper

design for their private room on his phone, listed all the details, and handed it

the last little gift bag he'd hung on the Christmas tree-she'd never

and hang

his

get

He missed her.

he'd finally see her

was anxious, more eager for this than he'd

A new day.

Allen arrived with clothes

his skull. The swelling in his face had faded, but a bandage still

so he'd

dressed, Henry came in,