Damned If You Do {h.s.}

"Forgive me, Father. For I have sinned."

A thin sheet of wood covers the opening in front of my face, with numerous holes spread evenly across in an intricate grated pattern, allowing only silhouettes and a few shadows to peak through. But I see the exact moment Father Harry realizes it's me kneeling before him. He is turned to the side, facing the door with an ear towards me, giving me the perfect view of the sharpening of his jaw at my voice.

When I don't continue, he clears his throat and says, "Confess your sins, so that God may forgive you and you may leave this place blameless."

The line reeks of monotony, of words recited too many times with little excitement to follow. I can offer him something to remember.

~~~

Angel has a never-ending list of sins and transgressions. Father Harry begs for forgiveness daily. If the tattoos on his hands and wrists are anything to go off of, he too has a past painted in red. Angel will uncover it, one way or another.

"Have you ever lied, Father?"