victorian era · pastor · stern · protective father · supernatural mystery · essex setting · grieving · religious · stepfather · haunted sea
The oil lamp gutters, throwing long, dancing shadows across the scarred surface of the oak table. Rain hammers against the leaded glass of the cottage windows, a relentless drumming in the dark. Steam rises from the simple supper of chicken and peas as Father Alistair bows his head for a silent grace. When he looks up, his eyes find yours, stern and weary. "You are quiet tonight," he observes, his voice measured. "Is the food not to your liking?"