Page 16 of The Fallen

Only, it’s not Father Draven who walks down the aisle. Mother Superior takes her place and goes through the service, never stating why she’s here in his stead. Did something happen to him? Is he okay?

Once she dismisses us, I make my way to her side. “I hope Father Draven is not ill.”

Her eyes cut to the side, looking at me with suspicion. “Should he be?”

“I cannot say. Only, he’s not here today, and-”

“The Father Confessor needed some time in peace and solitude before the most unholy of days. Now then, if you are quite done looking for gossip, I’m sure there are things I can find to occupy your time.”

“No, Mother Superior. I am quite capable of governing myself.”

“Hmph.” With a soft grunt, she walks away, leaving me to stand in the chapel space all alone.

Unbidden, I make my way to the altar, looking for even a hint of his scent. Granted, with all of us in here daily, it’s rather hard to make out the subtle differences. A heavy sigh slips from my lips as I stride over to the votive holder. Normally, I only give this spot a passing glance, but today I feel there needs to be something more.

I hold the small candle in my hand and twist it about, watching the glow of the flame flickering. So beautiful, somesmerizing. Glancing over my shoulder, I make sure I’m alone before dipping the tip of my finger into the warm wax.

A soft giggle vibrates in my chest as I indulge in a little harmless fun, something I’ve done ever since a child. But even as I peel off the hardened wax, I know I cannot tarry. Crossing myself, I light another candle, sending up as fervent a prayer as I can that Father Draven will return to us safely.

Chapter Eleven

Father Draven

Two Days Until Game Night

Iwatch the monks as they mill about, their minds and bodies seemingly unburdened with the upcoming Game Night. They sit and talk, discussing scriptures and holy texts. Though I long to join in, I find the desire not within me.

Despite being miles away, all I can think about is her. It’s maddening, a disease in my mind that refuses to go away. Even now, I debate packing up my things and leaving. Not so I can tend to my flock, but so I can see to her needs. Needs I have no business attending.

The only respite I’ve had is no longer being consumed with her scent. Here, it’s nothing but Alpha and beta males going about their days. The stench of their testosterone is enough to quell even the strongest of arousals. For me, at least.

But then, in talking to them, there are still chances for things to be done in secret. They may not have an outward showing of immorality, as I’m sure mine is. The fact that I’ve not been caught in my lusts yet is frankly disturbing. Who will keep my little lamb safe if I decide to bite? The implant, I suppose.

All I have to do is make it past Game Night. I’m sure things will quiet down after that. Who am I kidding? Heading into Game Night has certainly made it worse, but it didn’t start with that. It started with her.

Sister Emily Agnes

An audible groan drips from my lips as I do my best to keep the demons at bay. Several turn to look at me, their gazes curious rather than condemning. They should condemn me. They should cast me into the pits of hell for what I want to do.

After a moment, they go back to their various duties, leaving me to stare at a wall as I decide my fate. If I go back, there’s no one to blame but myself. However, if I stay away, sequestered in this monastery, that’s taking the coward’s way out as well.

Game Night itself is covered. It’s after that will determine my future. Before her, I wanted nothing more than to spend my days in quiet contemplation and service to God. Now that she’s wormed her way into my heart and lusts, I’m mightily tempted to eschew everything and drag her to my side.

God help me, but I’ve never felt such weakness before. To give into these desires will be to damn us both. Unfortunately, the need to see her, to smell her, nearly drives me feral.

Though I’ve been blessed to have at least one day where my brain didn’t misfire, I’ve longed to hear her laugh, to see her skipping through the fields. God, just to behold those beautiful eyes as a light blush stains her cheeks.

My heart pounds as I head up to my room to gather my things. It’s best to rip the bandage off and face my temptation, even if she’s wrapped up in a black and white habit.

Chapter Twelve

Sister Emily Agnes

One Day Until Game Night

He’s back. For the first time in the last twenty-four hours, I’m able to take a deep, full breath. Even before I can see him, I know he’s there. His scent overwhelms me, making me sway in the pew. Thankfully, the other Sisters don’t notice, but he does.

I can tell by the darkening of his eyes as his gaze roams over my body. Arousal swamps my senses, making my clit pulse with need. Again, as with that day of punishing, his nostrils flare. He can smell me. I’m sure of it. Now things make sense.

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