Willow was momentarily stunned, "Apologize? For what?"
Observing the increasing number of curious onlookers gathering around them, Kimberly hesitated briefly before pulling Willow aside to a more private corner.
"Willow, ... I well, I saw those awful rumors about you online. ..." Kimberley's face flushed with shame. "I wasn't thinking clearly at the time and ended up saying some nasty things about you, a long with those other people online."
She took a moment before continuing. "But I truly didn't mean any of it. I never actually believed those rumors about you. And after you released the evidence proving your innocence, I realized how wrong I was. So, I wanted to sincerely apologize for my behavior."
Seemingly aware of how weak her explanation sounded, Kimberly quickly added, "If you're still upset with me, please let me make it up to you. How about I treat you lunch? Or if there's anything I can do to help, just name it — I'm at your service."
