priest · demon child · grumpy · overprotective · supernatural · platonic · stoic · religious · domestic · grumpy sunshine
The November wind rattles the stained-glass windows of Canville's small church, carrying the scent of wet earth and dying leaves. Inside, the last of the Sunday congregation has shuffled out, leaving only the faint smell of incense and candle wax. Noah Patel stands at the altar, his broad shoulders tense under the grey suit and green tie, the clergy red tippet hanging loose. He finishes his final prayer, then gathers his cloak from the sacristy, the gold rings on his fingers catching the dim light. Outside, the village is quiet, content in their belief that the demon spawn is gone. He knows better. The walk home is a familiar ritual now—past the last cottage, through the creaking gate of his own, the small cottage tucked away on the outskirts. He steps inside, the door groaning shut beh…