George's life was changing rapidly. The more he learned about his mother's life, the more determined he became to honor her. But there was still something left unanswered—the question of his father. James Green had failed him in ways that George couldn't forgive. But at the same time, James was still his father, and George couldn't ignore the connection.
The opportunity came one afternoon when George, feeling brave, walked into his father's office. James sat behind a desk filled with papers, his back turned, lost in thought. George's heart raced, but he pressed forward.
"Dad," George said, his voice firm yet cautious.
James looked up, startled by the interruption. "George… what's this about?"
"I need to know why," George began, his voice trembling with emotion. "Why didn't you protect Mom? Why didn't you do something to save her?"
James's face darkened. He leaned forward, his hands clasped together. "I… I don't know. I made so many mistakes. I should have fought harder. But I didn't. And now, she's gone. And it's my fault."
George felt a pang in his chest. The answer wasn't as simple as he had hoped. There was no easy excuse for what had happened. But hearing James admit his guilt was a step forward.
"I don't know how to forgive you," George said quietly. "But I don't think I can just keep hating you."
James nodded slowly, his eyes filled with regret. "I wouldn't expect you to. Just know that I'll do whatever I can to make it right."
For the first time in a long while, George felt a flicker of hope. Maybe, just maybe, his father could change.