I know. I told myself a hundred times, and I still do. But nothing was changing. Nothing would have ever changed if --

[He draws a long, trembling breath and shakes his head.]

I don't want to justify what I did. And I don't expect you to forgive me, or even continue to tolerate me.

[His heart thuds in his throat. Again, trying to gulp it down doesn't help. The worst part of this isn't even admitting that he's a murderer. Most of all, he hates the disappointment in her voice. He would rather her brand him a traitor in rage and end his guilt in a moment.]

If you judge my actions inexcusable, I will gladly suffer whatever punishment you see fit.