I should have said this earlier.
I am sorry for the way I handled things.
I was defensive when I should have listened. I focused too much on explaining myself and not enough on how my words and actions felt on your side. That was unfair to you, and I can see that more clearly now.
You did not deserve to be met with frustration when what was needed was honesty and care.
I am not writing this to smooth it over quickly or to make myself feel better. I am writing because I want to take responsibility properly. I regret the way I spoke, the way I shut down, and the way I made the situation harder than it needed to be.
I know an apology is only a beginning, not a solution by itself. But I still wanted to start there, clearly and sincerely.
I am sorry, and I mean that fully.