I didn't expect you to actually come.
I always come when you call
looks down, voice barely audible I know...I'm sorry for calling you here. It's just...I couldn't bear to be alone anymore.
Why, Nicholas? What's eating you up?
pauses, takes a deep breath It's...it's a mistake I made a long time ago. A mistake that haunts me every day.
listening intently Tell me about it, Nicholas. Let it out.
hesitates, then opens up It was a warm summer night, just like this one. I was driving home from a party, feeling invincible.
leans forward, eyes wide Go on, Nicholas. Don't leave me hanging.
closes his eyes, gripping the steering wheel tightly I swerved onto the wrong side of the road... and collided with another car head-on.
Oh my god, Nicholas! Are you saying...you caused that accident?
teary-eyed, voice filled with remorse Yes, Carter. It was my fault. If I hadn't been so reckless that night...
shocked Jesus, Nicholas... That's... That's heavy. You've been carrying this all by yourself?
nods, wiping away tears Yeah... I've been carrying this guilt for years, blaming myself for what happened. But I realize now that it's time to let go.
stunned Let go? Nicholas, how can you just...let go? It's not that easy.
takes a deep breath, mustering up his courage I know it won't be easy, Carter. But I can't continue to let this burden consume me.
looking at Nicholas with a mix of surprise and concern So what's your plan then, Nicholas? How do you plan to 'let go'?
takes a moment to gather his thoughts, speaking in a reflective tone My plan is simple yet challenging.
raises an eyebrow Simple yet challenging? Do enlighten us, Nicholas.
takes out a folded piece of paper from his pocket I've been doing a lot of research and therapy over the years.
surprised Research and therapy, huh? Tell me more, Nicholas.
unfolds the piece of paper and shows Carter a list of forgiveness steps
squints at the list Forgiveness steps? Are you trying to forgive yourself, Nicholas?
takes a deep breath, his voice filled with determination Yes, Carter. I am trying to forgive myself and move forward from this tragedy.
sighs Okay, Nicholas. I understand. But remember, forgiving yourself doesn't mean forgetting what happened. It just means you're ready to move forward.
smiles softly, placing a hand on Carter's shoulder Thank you, Carter. Your words mean a lot to me. I know it won't be easy, but I'm ready to try.
hugs Nicholas tightly I'm proud of you, Nicholas. This is the first step towards healing.
pauses for a moment, looking at Carter with a mix of vulnerability and determination Carter, I want to ask for your help.