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.

for 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 questions. I don't want them to find out that my real

mother. She can't speak, but that's not her fault. If she knew you felt this way, it would break her heart. If

said, "Sheila, since Henry needs you, why don't you stay a little

"But..."

stood up, lips pressed together, struggling. "I really

however, took hold of her suitcase and, without

Henry hurried after

with your family because of me. You know

down and looked at her, his gaze steady and

me. Things aren't like they were

heart skipped

Was he saying...?

Dad says you can stay. Please, don't leave

relented. "Alright. I'll

need to step out for a bit,"

bedroom. From his own suitcase, he pulled

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

Three hours later.