He huffed a sort of grim chuckle. "You're apologising to me when you had done nothing wrong and when I'm in the middle of apologising to you. I'd say that's pretty merciful."

He set the bar of soap aside and rinsed off before continuing.

"You never hurt me. I hurt myself and I hurt you by doubting both of us."

He turned so he could look at Cole properly. He even reached out to try to take the lad's hand.

"Cole, I'm sorry that in the end, I wasn't strong enough to help you. I'm sorry that I didn't stand up for you in front of the Lord Seeker. And I thank the Maker that I have this chance to make it up to you."

He took a breath.

"I never forgot you. I was terrified that I would. Evangeline, she forgot what you looked like, but we talked about you often enough that she didn't forget you either."

He frowned a little.

"I'm sorry I can't offer you more than that right now. But please, know that I'll do everything I can to help you in anyway you desire."

He then offered a kiss to Cole's hand. He's too wet to hug properly, besides, this felt more proper anyway, given the weight of the promise he had just made.