Abuse is about power and control.
There are cycles to abuser's behavior:
Apology and promise never to repeat
Statements that no one will believe the victim
Threats to kill the victim or the children if they try to leave
Alcohol / Drugs
The bully may give these as an excuse to gain sympathy and subsequent forgiveness. The "excuse"
is no excuse for bullying. Don't give in to it. Report it and get help.
Reverse Blame
Bully manipulates the situation using words which place blame for the bully's behavior on the victim.