Goodbye, Mr. Regret

Chapter 25

Timothy walked over, concern etched on his face.

"What's wrong?"

"Timothy, talk to Henry for me, will you? I really have to go back home."

Sheila looked pale and anxious.

Timothy's voice grew gentle. "Is this about the news today?"

"Timothy, we..." Sheila turned away, struggling for words. "I don't want to be a burden to you anymore. My father just called-he's arranged a marriage for me. He wants me to come home and meet the man."

"Miss Sheila, please don't leave, okay? My teacher recommended me for the children's arts competition, and I want you there with me..."

Henry clung to Sheila's hand, his voice trembling with tears.

Sheila's eyes filled with tenderness. She knelt down and gently wiped away Henry's tears.

"Henry, it's not that I don't want to be there for you. I've already delayed my trip for days. Your great-grandfather keeps urging me to come back. But if I get the chance, I promise I'll visit again, alright?"

Henry turned hopefully toward Timothy.

thought she was my mom. If I go to the competition with someone else, everyone's going to

she knew you felt this way, it would break her heart. If you really don't want her to come, your dad or your aunt can go with you. But don't ever speak about your mother like that

stay a little longer? Jessica can't speak, and now that Henry's older, it's only natural he

"But..."

lips pressed together, struggling. "I really

hold of her suitcase and, without a word, wheeled it toward the

Henry hurried

fight with your family because of me. You know I'd feel awful

down and looked at her, his gaze

me. Things aren't like they

skipped

Was he saying...?

Dad says you can stay.

hesitated, then finally relented. "Alright. I'll stay

step out for a

later returned and went into the master bedroom. From his own suitcase,

second-floor balcony, watching as Timothy's Bentley glided

Three hours later.