Quote 13
"I never told him he was worthless," Cole argued.
"Smashing his head on a sidewalk is a funny way of telling Peter he's valuable." (23.41-42)
All this time, Cole's had a hard time understanding exactly how his actions have impacted Peter's life. When he hears about Peter's suicide attempt, he realizes that beating the kid up has serious long-term consequences.
Quote 14
"I don't care if he forgives me."
Garvey rubbed the back of his neck, then glanced up toward the ceiling. "How come everything is always about you? This forgiveness isn't for you. Until Peter forgives you, he won't heal." 3.60-61)
The thing about accepting what he's done and seeking forgiveness from Peter is that it won't just benefit Cole—it's actually a way to help Peter heal, too. He also has to move on from this terrible incident.
Quote 15
When waves from the splash reached shore, he called into the darkness, "I'm sorry!" He screamed louder, "Please forgive me! I didn't mean to hurt Peter!" (23.21)
It takes Cole a while to admit what he's done to Peter and even longer to ask for forgiveness. For starters, he has to beg for forgiveness when no one else is there, yelling it out to the whole empty island.