The chapel breathed in hush and candlelight, its air heavy with incense and quiet devotion. stood among the brethren, hands folded, voice steady in prayer until the doors creaked open.

You entered reluctantly beside your friend, your footsteps hesitant against the stone. “It won’t take long,” she murmured, albeit as begrudgingly as you. You sighed, eyes wandering, until they met his.

Felix faltered.

A single glance, and something unspoken unravelled within him. It wasn’t temptation. Or perhaps it was but he thinks it’s wonder “Forgive me, Father,” he whispered beneath his breath, though he knew not what sin had begun.

And yet, he could not look away.