Margaret’s Unexpected Visit
The next morning, a knock at the door startled me, and when I opened it, Margaret stood there—her demeanor kind and warm, though worry flickered faintly across her face. I stepped aside to let her in, curiosity already stirring. “Ryan, I wanted to talk to you about yesterday,” she said politely, her voice measured. Her presence, though unexpected, carried a quiet comfort, like a gentle tide rolling in. Still, I couldn’t help but wonder—what weighed so heavily on Emily’s mother that brought her here so early, looking so concerned?

Margaret’s Unexpected Visit
Margaret’s Apology
The next morning, a knock at the door startled me, and when I opened it, Margaret stood there—her demeanor kind and warm, though worry flickered faintly across her face. I stepped aside to let “I’m sorry if Emily came off too blunt,” Margaret began gently, her tone careful and sincere, every word carrying genuine empathy. I nodded, grateful for her effort even as the tension from yesterday lingered. “She didn’t mean to cause any trouble,” she added, her expression a delicate balance of calm and concern. Her kind eyes softened the moment, and hearing her perspective eased something in me. It felt reassuring to know that Emily wasn’t alone in wanting to mend the rift between us.

Margaret’s Apology