Chapter 18 - BEATRICE’S FIRST APOLOGY
The letter came through counsel.
Dahlia’s therapist reviewed it before I did because it was addressed to Dahlia.
Dr. Nora recommended not giving it to her.
I read why.
My dear Dahlia,
You are too young to understand the obligations of our family.
Bad start.
Then:
I regret that the wedding frightened you.
Not:
I frightened you.
Then:
Sleeping near the kitchen was meant to teach that privilege follows responsibility.
No.
Then:
Your father has chosen emotion over duty before and may someday understand what I tried to protect.
Worse.
No direct apology for meal delays.
No acknowledgment of the place card.
No acknowledgment of using Dahlia as a test.
We declined delivery.
Beatrice’s lawyer asked why.
Dr. Nora answered in clinical language.
No need for me.
Then a second letter came months later after counseling began.
Short.
Dahlia,
I told you your father might choose his chair instead of you. That was cruel and wrong.
I made you sleep in a place where you felt unwanted.
I allowed meals, clothes and family seating to become punishment.
I had no right to do that.
You did not cause the conflict between adults.
I am not asking you to answer me.
Better.
Dr. Nora let Dahlia choose whether to hear it.
She said:
“Not today.”
May you like
The letter stayed sealed.
Consent again.
