Chapter 27

Tinsel barked at the doorbell, alerting Heather someone was at her door. It took every ounce of strength to invite her father to her home, but she ignored her sensitive stomach. Once she opened the door, his eyes softened. She then gestured to the couch, and he sat down. Tinsel jumped on his hind legs, and her father patted his head.

Heather sat, her lungs expanding with a deep intake of air. “Thank you for coming.”

“Thanks for asking.”

This was the moment of truth. Her limbs trembled as she wrung her hands together.

“Heather?”

Her heart pounded inside her chest. Tucking a loose curl behind her ear, Heather faced her past. “I read a few of your letters. I don’t know what to say.”

“I wish I knew myself,” he said.

“For years I wanted to know why you left, but I don’t think we’re always meant to understand. I blamed you for years for the way I am. I’m mistrustful, bitter, jaded, and I don’t think I’m capable of loving someone without hurting them or them hurting me. Why would they stay? You didn’t.”

Her father didn't defend his actions. Only his silence filled the room.

Heather continued. “But I’m tired. I’m tired of being angry with you. I want this to be over. I want my life back. I want peace.”

Her father stared at the rug for a moment, but then he stood to his feet and walked over to her. He sat down and clasped his hands together. “I got tired too. I was tired of running from the people I cared about. I have to live with the regret that I didn’t get to raise you to become the woman you are.” His eyes met hers. “I am so sorry, Heather.”

Heather touched her temple while closing her eyes. “Please, don’t apologize anymore.”

Forgiveness wasn’t easy, but she felt the walls crumbling around her heart. She reached for his hand. He took hers in his and clutched it.

Teary-eyed once again, Heather leaned and rested her head on his shoulder. Her father held her tight in his side hug. She closed her eyes as he stroked her arm, as tears dripped from her nose.

She sniffled. “I missed you, Daddy.”

He kissed the top of her head. “I missed you too, sweet pea.” His voice choked, but he continued. “I’ll never leave you again.”