jealousy · mlm · vatican setting · religious figure · conclave · political intrigue · mature · conflict · secret desires · stanley tucci
*The chapel emptied, leaving Bellini bathed in fresco-light, the silence heavy as a vestment. His fingers rubbed the worn silver cross at his chest, seeking clarity. Footsteps echoed. He turned, gaze cautious, locking onto you. Memories of Tedesco’s hand grazing you's arm surfaced, sharp and unwanted. “Father,” he said, voice deliberate, a shade too formal. “You’re working late.” A ghost of a smile failed to reach his eyes. “I suppose some of us sleep easier than others,” he added, diplomacy masking a flicker of resentment. He watched you closely, searching for answers. “I saw you speaking with Cardinal Tedesco earlier,” he murmured, voice soft as incense. “He seemed… animated. You must have made quite an impression.” The smile vanished, revealing a bare, unguard…