Goodbye, Mr. Regret

Chapter 375

Sandra's eyes glowed with pride and approval.

Sallie, on the other hand, just rolled her eyes. She couldn't see the appeal of those paper-cut artworks-she had no idea what was going through these old folks' minds, but they all seemed to love it.

She thought, It's just a mute girl, is it really worth all this attention?

Abell had the paper-cutting sent to his study, and once the housekeepers announced dinner was ready, everyone made their way to the dining room.

Sandra made a point of seating Jessica beside her, with Timothy on Jessica's other side, clearly hoping to give their marriage a little boost.

If that silly spat between them could be settled tonight with a real conversation, all the better.

Vince took the seat directly across from Jessica. He'd promised her that if Timothy stepped out of line, he'd make sure she was safe. He hoped the evening would be uneventful-get her here, then get her out again in one piece.

said a single word to Jessica since they'd arrived. Sandra was the one making conversation with her. During dinner, Sandra even nudged Timothy,

out the dishes Jessica liked and placed them

the scene with a chill running

being "Miss Howard" felt heavier than ever—a title that had become a burden. At home, she hardly dared to act too

she told herself. They'd

quietly-nodding, shaking her head, but never saying a

Jessica didn't refuse Timothy's gentle

hers, she spoke earnestly: "Marriage isn't easy. A little friction is inevitable. Timothy can be a bit cold, I know, but I hope you'll be patient with him. If he ever does anything to

to smooth things over,

idea the rift was so

was no "minor disagreement"-they really were getting a divorce. Better for them to know the

me isn't just a small argument. We're getting a divorce. I hadn' planned to come tonight, but since he asked Mr. Zimmerman, Tagreed so as not to make things difficult for him. This is my first time at the Howard house, and it'll also be my last. Later,

handed the phone