"Life can often be unkind, and leads us down there wrong path. They made mistakes, out of grief and love. I can't imagine how hard it was for you. And I know he was changed by his experiences, but his heart is gentle still. He reacted to my tale much like you did; as if he'd never heard something so tragic."

She smiles, shaking her head, affectionate and amused, even though he wasn't there at the moment.

"You're both extraordinarily generous and kind. I hope it helps in some way to know I don't think he ever lost those qualities."