Meeting The New Zoe

Zoe removed the headphones from her head and her eyes began to get glossy as tears filled them. She opened her mouth to speak for the first time but no words came out, only a small cry.

She tried again and finally spoke, “I’m so sorry.” Her voice broke, and a few tears rolled down her face. She looked so vulnerable.

Instead of replying verbally, I pulled her in for a hug and she cried on my shoulders as she continued to apologize. She sounded so sincere and regret filled her voice.

I was instantly taken by her apology. She did not have to ask for forgiveness, from the moment I learned of her mental disorder, I had forgiven her. She was my sister and I loved her. And I would never stop no matter what.

I felt really bad that I did not know about it much sooner.

Zayn was still at the doorway, watching our exchange with his arms folded on his chest and his back laid against the wall.

“I messed up, Lara. I messed up real bad.” She sobbed and we broke the hug. “I am so sorry for everyth