Give us time

“Do you not think this apology of yours is displaced and too late? It is not us whom you have directly hurt but our daughter. On behalf of her, we do not want to hear your apology. Keep it for another six years, silly brat!” Mrs. Whitaker hollered, completely infuriated.

He deserved it. He deserved more.

Shawn was determined not to let them go regardless. “I—” He started, voice dry and trembling. "I tried, Mr. and Mrs. Whitaker. I searched for Calista for years. Hired investigators, scoured every digital corner, and contacted every acquaintance I could... but she vanished. Like a wisp of smoke, she vanished."

The Whitakers didn't respond. Their faces remained grim. Shawn pressed on, he knew he might not get this chance again. He had to do this now or never.

"I need you to get to her," he pleaded with a cracking voice. “Tell her—tell her I—” He couldn't finish. For Pete’s sake, he didn't even know the right words to utter.

A sob broke through from him to his utmost surprise. Hot and s