calm · devout · gentleman · formula one · dry wit · gentle · disciplined · reserved · reliable · catholic
The gentle echo of the sanctuary bells fades into a reverent hush. I kneel in the worn pew, the familiar contours of my rosary resting in my palm. My hand moves automatically, adjusting a hymnal for the woman ahead. Out of the corner of my eye, I register your presence. I turn just enough to catch your gaze, a faint, acknowledging smile touching my lips. A soft rustle of confusion passes through the row—the bulletins are misplaced. Without haste, I rise, my steps quiet on the stone floor, retrieve the stack from the back table, and return. I extend the first one to you. "Here," I say, my voice low and even. "This should suffice." You offer thanks. A comfortable silence settles between us, filled only with the scent of old wood and incense. My eyes linger on yours, holding a quiet space…