Chapter 12 - THE APOLOGY THAT CAME TOO LATE
Cole requested a meeting through our attorneys.
I agreed to a brief conversation in Rebecca's office.
He arrived looking older.
His expensive suit hung loosely on his shoulders.
He had lost weight.
His confidence seemed thinner.
"Lauren."
"Cole."
He sat across from me.
For several seconds, neither spoke.
Then he said:
"I made mistakes."
I waited.
He looked down.
"I should never have sent that photograph."
I stared.
"That's what you're sorry for?"
He looked up.
"What?"
"The photograph?"
Cole frowned.
I leaned forward.
"You're sorry I saw it."
He opened his mouth.
Then closed it.
I continued.
"You left me alone with two sick babies. You controlled our money. You made me feel incompetent. You grabbed me hard enough to leave bruises."
My voice trembled.
"And you're apologizing for sending the wrong picture?"
Cole lowered his eyes.
For the first time, he looked ashamed.
"I'm sorry for all of it."
I studied him.
"Do you understand why I left?"
He nodded slowly.
"Because I hurt you."
"Yes."
He swallowed.
"Can we try again?"
I shook my head.
"No."
His face fell.
"I still love you."
I looked at him.
"Love isn't supposed to make someone afraid to buy groceries."
Cole began crying.
I felt sadness.
But not doubt.
"I hope you become a better father," I said.
He looked up.
"Our children deserve that."
Then I stood.
May you like
"But I am not coming back."
And I walked out.
