Hayley's answer did surprise Hope and it actually brought a brief smile to the young woman's lips. She knew her mother would never stop blaming herself. Just like she knew her dad wouldn't either. It was the burden of being a parent; always feeling as if you could have done more to make your child's life better.
The smile wavered just slightly at her mother's words. It was easier to think she could handle it with calm and strength while in her mom's embrace. Hope didn't know if she could without such support beside her. She hadn't experienced it yet, hadn't looked into Landon's eyes as she delivered the finishing blow. Hope could only have faith that she could, when the time came, handle it with strength and calm, like her mother and father when they'd sacrificed themselves to save her.
Hope rested her head against her mom's shoulder. "I had two parents that showed me how to be strong and not selfish, even if it means giving up what you love the most."