Not the quick apology people offer when they want discomfort to end.
He took his time.
“I’m sorry I made Ethan’s service a standard the rest of you had to measure against.”
Ethan looked at him.
“And I’m sorry I turned your accomplishments into something that belonged to me.”
Dad faced him.
“You earned what you earned.
I just…”
He searched for the words.
“After you left the Army, I think I kept talking about Captain Bennett because I didn’t know what else to praise.”
Ethan’s expression shifted.
“I thought you were disappointed that I got out.”
“I was surprised.”
“You asked me for three years when I was going back.”
“I know.”
“That sounded like disappointment.”
Dad nodded slowly.
“I suppose it did.”
Ethan looked at his mug.
“I left because I wanted another life.”
“I know that now.”
“I’m happy, Dad.”
Ethan worked in civil engineering and had recently become engaged to a woman named Rachel.
