The telling probably mattered more than Joanna understanding all the details, and the emotions running through it.

"No. I don't think any of us were ready for this." She brushed a lock of hair back into place, same as she might've with her girls. "For the longest time, all I wanted was for my children to have a normal life and a chance to be happy. You and Vex deserve that too; I'm only sorry I can't give that to you."