she would regard it as equally special

Even back then, I knew it was important to her, and I remember making a note to do everything she wanted. However, I got so embroiled in some messy proceedings relating to a large estate that her birthday arrived before I could make the arrangements.?Instead, at the last minute I had my secretary pick out a stylish tennis bracelet, and on the way home, I convinced myself that because it had been expensive, she would regard it as equally special. When she unwrapped it, I promised that I’d make the necessary plans for a wonderful evening together, an evening even better than the one she’d described. In the end, it was another in a long line of promises that I ended up breaking, and in hindsight, I think Jane realized it as soon as I said it. Feeling the weight of lost opportunity, I didn’t continue. I rubbed my forehead in the silence. I pushed my plate aside, and as the past sped by in a series of disheartening memories, I felt Jane’s eyes on me. Surprising me, however, she reached across the table and touched my hand. “Wilson? Are you okay?” There was a note of tender concern in her voice that I didn’t quite recognize. I nodded. “Yes.” “Can I ask you a question?” “Of course.” “Why all the regrets tonight? Was it something that Daddy said?” “No.” “Then what made you bring it up?” “I don’t know . . . maybe it’s the wedding.”