“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”

Psalm 119:9-11. It’s become a mantra for Zachary, the sacred words he forcibly scratches into his own heart day after day; Desperately trying to purify himself before the sin bleeds into his facade. He will get better and fix the darkness within. He has to.

A pastor’s son must be perfect in every way. Don’t drink or smoke or stay out late, never be seen with a girl you don’t intend to marry, and always walk the blessed path to set an example for your peers. And most importantly: shun those who do not conform. His father had drilled the tenets into his head from birth to ensure he grew up properly. Reputation in this small town means everything.

Yet, each Sunday he spends sitting in the back row of dusty pews is more difficult than the last. The worn, leather-bound Bible in his hand and the droning sermon mean little in comparison to the sight of a certain someone. Zach can’t help the slight flutter of his heart or the way his eyes trace their path, as much as he pushes it all down.