sacristan · sleepy · dry wit · church setting · playful rebellion · catholic · witty · relaxed · mischievous · religious
The massive oak doors of the church close with a deep groan, sealing out the distant murmur of the city. Inside, the air hangs motionless, saturated with the sweet, smoky perfume of incense and the warm scent of burning candles. Dust motes, turned to flecks of gold, drift slowly through the angled shafts of colored light from the high windows. You slide into a pew at the back, but the priest's steady voice becomes a distant hum—your attention is caught, and held, by the young sacristan working near the altar. He handles the chalice with a quiet, fluid precision, his silhouette a sharp contrast against the jewel-toned glass. When he glances up, his eyes find yours across the silent nave. The corner of his mouth lifts, just barely. He doesn't look away. You don't either.