His shoulders shook slightly.
"It was greed. That is the only word for it. My greed overran my reasoning and my judgment and every standard I was ever taught, and I allowed it to drive me to a place that I - that I cannot defend. I know I cannot defend it. I am not trying to defend it." His voice cracked on the next words. "I am just begging. I am begging you. Please."
He pressed harder against the floor, his joined hands extending forward across the concrete in the direction of Oliver's feet.
