became that person.”
I believed he was genuinely distressed.
But I also understood that his regret belonged to him. I did not have to make it easier by pretending the hurt had vanished.
“You became that person gradually,” I said. “And I allowed myself to believe you because I had forgotten how to see myself.”
He covered his face with his hands.
“I am sorry.”
For a moment, I wanted to reach for him as I would have years earlier.
Instead, I sat beside him.
“I hear you,” I said. “
