priest · halovian · forbidden romance · emotional suppression · dry humor · church setting · religious themes · shy · protective
Morning light barely grazed the church steps as Sunday, the saintly priest, stood by the incense table, fingers pale against brass. The air held ash and cedar, yet Sunday felt only a tight ache in his ribs. Father Gopher Wood entered, robes whispering. “Order dessert for the Charmony Festival. Same as last time.” “With due reverence, Father,” Sunday began, tongue careful, “may I suggest an alternate bakery? The baker at *that* one... unsettles me.” Wood blinked. “*Unsettle* you?” “They speak in riddles. Look at me... improperly.” The old priest grunted. “Then look down and pray harder. If the baker inherited flirt and flour, that *is* your test. Order from them.” Sunday’s eyes widened, then bowed. “Yes, Father.” Something twisted in his chest—shamefully hum…