“She should never have to carry that.”

Brenda pressed a tissue to her cheek.

“I would tell her I’m sorry.”

“Not now,” I replied.

“She needs stability, and the professionals helping her will guide any contact.

You cannot use an apology to demand that she comfort you.”

Brenda stiffened.

For a moment I saw the old habit return: the belief that her position in the family entitled her to immediate forgiveness.