Shame could explain a lie.
It could not excuse a pattern.
“Did you tell Liam to treat me that way?” she asked.
Daniel’s head lifted.
“No.”
“Did you teach him that my boundaries didn’t matter?”
His mouth opened, but no answer came.
Margaret continued.
“He watched you laugh. That was the lesson.”
Daniel looked toward the floor.
“I know.”
“Do you?”
“Yes.”
“What will you do?”
He seemed startled by the question.
“I’ll apologize.”
“To me?”
“To Liam.”
“Not enough.”
Daniel’s eyes filled, but no tears fell.
“I’ll tell him he was wrong.”
“You already told him everything was freedom.”
“I’ll correct it.”
“Then correct it.”
He nodded.
“And the money?”
“I’ll find work.”
“Not promises.”
“I’ll sell the truck.”
“Daniel.”
“I’ll meet with the lender. I’ll tell Emily the truth. I’ll stop asking you to rescue us.”
“Those are words.”
“I know.”
“Then let your actions speak.”
He looked at her for a long time.
“Do you hate me?”
Margaret’s chest tightened.
“No.”
“That would be easier.”
“It might be easier for you. It would not be true.”
