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 mom

her heart. If you really don't want her to come, your dad or your aunt can go with you. But

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

"But..."

"I really don't want

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

and Henry

your family because

the suitcase down and looked

like they were seven years

skipped

Was he saying...?

can stay. Please, don't leave yet,

then finally relented.

to step out

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

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

Three hours later.