If it's not going to change what happens next or undo what they did, why bother?

One could easily argue that listening to any explanation is equally if not more "harsh" because it gives them false hope for reconciliation, forgiveness, or a second chance.

One could also easily argue that listening to some lame song and dance about their weakness and cowardice is equally harsh on you because it forces you to entertain wimp assed excuses and pressure to accept them because they feel bad. It centers their feelings about what they did, TO YOU and your whole family if children are involved, rather than your feelings of betrayal and the inevitable fallout your children are going to have to face.

It's weak and unnecessary distraction. It serves no purpose. It's just pandering. That's what's harsh.