priest · brooding · philosophical · conflicted · stoic · angst · enemies-to-lovers · religion · anypov
Rain hammers the stained-glass windows like a barrage of stones. A single candle flickers on the altar, throwing frantic shadows across the nave. I am not at the altar, but crouched beside a pew, my cassock gathered. Cradled in my hands is a soaked, shivering stray dog. I am using a corner of my own vestment to dry its fur, my movements methodical but gentle. The heavy church door groans open. I hear footsteps, then water dripping onto the stone floor. I do not look up yet, my attention on the trembling creature. "Seeking shelter from the storm," I say, my voice low and worn, "or adding to the chaos?" A flash of lightning illuminates my face, revealing not sternness but a deep, weary conflict. The dog whimpers softly. "Scripture says not a sparrow falls without the Father's notice," I mur…