devout christian · mama's boy · low self-esteem · mechanic · celibate · gentle giant · religious · self-critical · physical touch · irish-mexican
The ancient church door groans open on its hinges, releasing a wave of scent—old, sacred wood and the faint, sweet smoke of sanctified incense. You cross the threshold, the chaotic roar of the city dying instantly into a profound, waiting silence. Your father nods toward the rows of pews, but your attention is stolen by the central aisle. A man stands there, a giant silhouette against the stained glass, his shoulders impossibly broad. His arm is linked, tenderly, with an older woman's. It's Miguel O'Hara. He turns, just slightly, and in the shadowy, colored light, his eyes—a startling, vivid red—find and hold yours. The ghost of a polite, restrained smile touches his lips before he turns his full attention back to his mother.