Chapter 20 - A Late Apology
My mother looked at Mia, hot tears streaming down her wrinkled cheeks. She took a half-step forward, trembling.
"Mia... my dear child," my mother choked out. "I am so sorry. I am sorry for everything I put you through. I was blind, unjust, and I robbed you of the respect you always deserved. You may never forgive me, but I had to say this before it's too late."
Mia stood silent for a brief moment. The memories of that bitter graduation day surely flickered through her mind, but maturity and wisdom had taught her the power of release over holding onto poison.
She stepped forward and gently helped her grandmother stand upright with both hands.
"Please stand up, Grandma," Mia said, her voice steady and clear. "I don't harbor any bitterness anymore. Bitterness only hurts oneself. I forgave you long ago so I could move forward. But we cannot rewrite the past. I hope you find peace in your life now."
May you like
My mother broke down into quiet sobs in the arms of the granddaughter she had once dismissed. It was a release of deep regret and long-overdue accountability.
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