Ten approaches to genuine apology.

1. Start with "I was wrong" — no qualifier, no "but"
2. Name exactly what you did wrong — specificity matters
3. Acknowledge the impact on her — not just the fact of the act
4. Don't explain unless asked (explanations can sound like defence)
5. State clearly what you'll do differently
6. Give her space to respond honestly
7. Don't demand immediate forgiveness
8. Follow the apology with changed behaviour — words without change land hollow
9. A handwritten note carries weight a text doesn't
10. If repeat offence: acknowledge the pattern and propose a real fix