I took a breath and listened to her. It had taken me a while, but I’d learned to be less defensive. And I knew not to ruin an apology with an excuse. After giving her space for all her feelings, I said, “I’m really sorry. I’m sorry I put you through that.” She started to calm down, and I continued, “You didn’t deserve that, and I know it must have been awful for you and that is on me, and I am sorry.”
