The room fell silent.
For nine years, Daniel had told himself that Emily had chosen to leave.
He had repeated that version of the story until it became easier than remembering what he had actually done.
Now, sitting beside her hospital bed, he finally understood the difference between a woman walking away and a woman being abandoned.
“I’m sorry,” he whispered.
Emily looked at him.
He had said those words countless times in business meetings, after arguments with executives, and whenever an apology could repair a damaged relationship.
But this time, he had nothing to gain.
“I am so sorry, Emily. I was cruel. I was selfish. And I made you believe that the years we spent together meant nothing.”
His voice cracked.
“You deserved a husband who stood beside you. Noah deserved a father who was there when he opened his eyes for the first time. And I gave neither of you what you deserved.”
