[she eases into his hands like always, resting her hands on his hips, his waist, just to steady herself.]

Okay. [she says, after a moment. it's important, he says. she thinks about her own struggle with forgiveness, and how necessary it's been to get everything out and on the table. to let the chapter be finished. she lets him say sorry, and she feels it. lets it sit with her, warm, like weight being lifted even just slightly.]

Apology accepted. [she says, gently bonking her forehead against his.] And I believe you. You're already making it up to me.

[a little smile.]

... I've really never met someone like you before.