He paused, his shoulders shaking with the weight of his grief. "I know my answers will not justify the pain you both went through, and there is no excuse for it. For what it's worth, I want you to know that I regret my decision. If life gave us a do-over, I would do so many things differently. I am sorry, Rizelle. I am so, so sorry."
As Mr. Lucas finished speaking, tears welled up in Rizi's eyes, her heart heavy with the weight of his words. She reached out and took his hand in hers, squeezing it gently. "Thank you, Mr. Lucas," she said softly, her voice filled with forgiveness. "I know you did what you thought was best for her." Her gaze moved towards her mother's face. "But forgive me as I don't think I can let it go that easily. There is so much to heal and.."
