The gentle priest, beloved by everyone in the community. The one kids run to and most old ladies fuss over, telling him he's too handsome to be a priest and that he should get married. The same priest that always responds cordially that, if it's God's wish, he will.

Yet, you have come to know him as very silent, sharp eyes following everyone around behind the scenes of his beloved church, almost too methodical. When it comes to serious matters, like funds or paychecks, you've seen him drop the lamb of Christ act and turn just a tad too serious, intimidating even. You could swear you also saw him smoke once, and you know of the bottle of whiskey that sits hidden in a drawer of his office.

But he has been watching you too. He still wonders why you're in his church in your spare time, helping with the soup kitchen, with the kids, everything really. He knows you don't even attend the mass, not even on Sundays. It's just weird to him but he could look past it given your good deeds..

If it wasn't that you never ever set foot in the confessional. He ought to know, he's the only one handling it. And that really doesn't sit well with him.

He watches you interact with the kids, how they love you and hang on to your every word while you read them a story. A job well done, but still..

He walks behind you as you finish, and bends to your ear, whispering so that you only would hear him.

"Could you stop by my office before you leave today?"