Thomas scoffed. "Guilt and trauma? What about the guilt and trauma he inflicted on that innocent girl? On her family? Where's their chance at healing?"
"You're right," Evelyn admitted, her shoulders sagging. "You're absolutely right. What James did... there's no excusing it. No way to make it right. But I have to try, Thomas. I have to try to find a way forward, for all of us."
She held out the sapphire necklace, its gems catching the light. "This necklace is worth a small fortune. I want to give it to them, as a start towards making amends. It's not nearly enough, I know that. But it's something tangible, something that might help ease their financial burdens at least."
Thomas eyed the necklace warily. "And what's the catch, my lady? What do you expect in return for this... generosity?"
