Chapter 12 - THE FINAL CONFRONTATION
Evelyn requested to see me before sentencing.
I almost refused.
Then I agreed.
She sat across from me behind the glass.
She looked smaller.
Older.
Nothing like the woman who had ruled the Christmas table.
“You won.”
I shook my head.
“No.”
She frowned.
“You took everything.”
“No.”
I leaned forward.
“You lost it.”
She looked away.
“Daniel was supposed to control the company.”
“He didn't.”
“You were supposed to leave.”
“I didn't.”
“You were supposed to be powerless.”
I smiled.
“That was your mistake.”
She stared at me.
“Why didn't you tell us who you were?”
“Because I wanted to be loved.”
She laughed bitterly.
“And now?”
“Now I know I don't need people who only love power.”
She looked down.
“I was wrong.”
“Yes.”
“I was cruel.”
“Yes.”
“Can you forgive me?”
I thought for a long time.
“I can stop carrying what you did.”
Her eyes filled with tears.
“But forgiveness isn't permission to return to my life.”
She nodded.
“I understand.”
I stood.
“Goodbye, Evelyn.”
When I walked away, I felt lighter.
May you like
Not because she had apologized.
Because I no longer needed her apology.
