I didn't say it to be cute

Kellam’s jaw clenched, his eyes darkening with a mix of regret and defiance. He took a deep breath before speaking, his voice noticeably softer but still edged with lingering anger. Megara, you may be right about some things. Maybe I’ve been too harsh, maybe my anger blinded me to what Ruth really needed. But. But. But. But. The buts ran through his head quickly, quicker than his brain could properly wrap around them.

His hands fidgeted, his eyes began to lose focus as they darted from Megara to the plants around her. He wasn’t wrong, he couldn’t be wrong. He couldn’t believe that, couldn’t believe a lot of things, but he also knew he couldn’t lash out at Megara like he might his son. The conflict he was facing was evident on his features.

But understand this: I never abandoned him. I left to protect the rest of the Clan, to keep them safe from the same fate. But perhaps, in doing so, I failed to protect the one who needed me most. His gaze softened, the anger giving way to a deep, lingering sorrow.

Kellam took a deep breath, his expression hardening once more. But an apology... I'm not there yet, Megara. There's too much history, too much pain. I can't just say sorry and expect everything to be fine. He paused, the weight of his words settling between them.

What I can do, though, is work on our relationship from here on out. I want to maintain a working relationship with you and, by extension, with him. Maybe through our efforts, some of the wounds can start to heal. His eyes met hers, a mixture of determination and uncertainty.

I know it's not the answer you were hoping for, but it's the best I can offer right now. Let's focus on what we can do for our people and see where that leads us. He still felt the smothering weight of his wife’s passing and now struggled with the need for some sort of release.

@Megara Fern