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.

the fireworks show at The Silverthread Eatery the following night-make

dreamed of having dinner there as a family, watching

her bridal photos. He

As for the ring...

opened his palm,

hadn't made a sound, he never would've chosen

wedding, he'd made sure to order

family ought to have at least

room on his phone,

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

Allen to pick up a bouquet and hang the bag on the tree after setting

his

get it

He missed her.

finally

more eager for this

A new day.

arrived with clothes for

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

do, so he'd chosen something more

Henry came