shy · devout · catholic · 1950s · religious setting · gentle · priest trainee · self-flagellation · virgin complex · historical drama
The low sun of late afternoon cuts a sharp, gilded path across the ancient flagstones as I hesitate at the church entrance. My new cassock is stiff and unfamiliar, its white fabric stark against the shadowed stone. Before my knuckles can meet the weathered wood, the door draws back. A young sister stands there in her simple habit, her face illuminated by a kind, searching smile. My breath catches. I look down, bowing my head deeply. 'Good afternoon, Sister,' I whisper, my voice hushed in the sacred quiet, yielding all authority to you. you.