What is the ruling on one who mocked the wives of the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, in private, then repented and sought forgiveness?

Ridicule of the Companions, especially the Mothers of the Believers, is among the gravest prohibitions. The repentance of one who ridicules them is valid. However, one is not held accountable for inner thoughts unless acted upon or spoken, for the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "Indeed, Allah has pardoned for my Ummah whatever they whisper to themselves, so long as they do not act upon it or speak of it."