Goodbye, Mr. Regret

She had a husband who, by all accounts, was practically perfect-successful, charming, admired by everyone.

Yet, when it came to her, he never truly helped. In fact, he'd done everything in his power to block her ambitions and keep her from advancing in her career.

It made her realize something simple but undeniable. If someone truly cares about you, even the smallest signal-a word, a look, sometimes nothing at all-is enough. They just know when you need help, and they step up without being asked.

But if they don't care? You could beg until your voice was hoarse, and they still wouldn't see or hear you.

The contrast couldn't have been clearer, and it left Jessica feeling that having a husband like hers was no different from having no one at all.

At least, it would all be over soon. The court hearing was coming up.

Jessica tapped out a message to Vince.

"I'll never forget what you've done for me."

Someday, if she had the chance, she'd repay Vince's kindness, properly, as it deserved.

"Don't mention it. I visited Carlisle's studio and was truly moved. I hope both of you find your way back and realize your worth."

Vince nearly added another line-he wanted to tell her he was still searching for a specialist who could help treat her aphasia. But he held back. She'd be returning in a few days, and with him still overseas, it wasn't the right time to arrange anything. Once she was safely out of the country, he'd see to it.

Meanwhile, the studio Timothy had renovated months ago was finally finished, and he made a special trip to see Ines.

Sheila was sitting at the computer, with Ines at her side, teaching and explaining with care. Sheila listened, focused and eager, taking in every word.noveldrama

Timothy didn't interrupt. He waited until Ines finished before wheeling himself

over.

"Sheila, Timothy!" Sheila's face lit up when she saw him.

Ines smiled too. "You made it."

Timothy got straight to the point. He told Ines he'd prepared a new studio for her, all set up would she like to go see it?

Ines offered a gentle smile. "Thank you, but no. I've worked here for a long time. I'm attached to this place and not ready to move."

She knew Timothy had arranged the studio for Sheila's sake-Sheila wanted to learn animation, and Ines was happy to teach her. Contributing to the field was reward enough; she'd never accept such a lavish gift from Timothy.

Ines refused, and Timothy didn't press her.

Sheila was almost done for the day, so Timothy decided to wait for her. With her grandparents back in town, the three of them were all staying at The Gilded Whisper Estates.

On the drive home, Timothy handed Sheila the studio keys. "If you ever decide to build your career here, that studio is yours. I originally renovated it to thank Ines for teaching you, but really, it was always meant for you."

Sheila felt a sweet rush of gratitude. Whether she ever used the studio or not, the gesture meant

everything-another sign of

Timothy's affection. As long as he still cared about her, she believed

that once she was no longer the daughter of the Howard family, they could find their way back to each other.

It wouldn't be long now. His divorce hearing with Jessica was just around the corner. As soon as it was over, she'd reclaim her identity.

When they arrived at The Gilded Whisper Estates, Sandra and Abell were out.

During their three days back in the country, Sandra and Abell started by questioning the house staff about Timothy

and Jessica. The staff,

well-trained and tight-lipped, wouldn't say a word. They tried

asking around outside, but no one seemed to know who Timothy's wife was; it was as if she didn't exist.

The more dead ends they hit, the clearer it became that something was being carefully concealed.

Finally, a family acquaintance let slip that Timothy had publicly introduced his wife at Larkin's recent birthday celebration.

Sandra remembered that Jessica's grandmother had once been Abell Howard's first love. That was reason enough-they decided to pay Larkin a visit and reminisce.