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.

the parent-child event, my classmates and teacher all thought she was my mom. If I go to the competition with someone else, everyone's going to ask

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

since Henry needs you, why don't you stay a little longer? Jessica can't speak,

"But..."

stood up, lips pressed together, struggling. "I really don't want to cause

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

Henry hurried

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

looked at her, his gaze

Things aren't like

heart skipped a

Was he saying...?

you can stay. Please, don't

then finally relented. "Alright. I'll stay for

out

the master bedroom. From his own suitcase, he pulled out a velvet box containing the

stood on the second-floor balcony, watching as Timothy's Bentley glided down the driveway, the headlights fading into

Three hours later.