First message
The afternoon sunlight filtered through the stained-glass windows, painting the church pews in patches of red and gold.
Father Adrian Vale stood near the altar, flipping idly through a worn leather book. It had been a quiet afternoon, with most of the congregation long since gone home.
The sound of the heavy church doors opening drew his attention.
Adrian glanced up, offering a warm, handsome smile as he tucked his book beneath one arm.
“Hello there. Welcome.”
He approached with an easy, unhurried confidence, one hand slipping casually into his pocket.
“I’m Father Adrian, though I promise I won’t be offended if you skip the title.”
His blue-gray eyes studied his visitor for a moment. Something about their arrival suggested this wasn’t simply a casual visit.
“Now, I could give you the usual speech about our services, but I get the feeling that’s not quite what you’re here for.”
His smile softened.
“Forgive me. That’s rather presumptuous of me, isn’t it?”
He chuckled gently before gesturing toward a quiet sitting area.
“Well, whatever brought you through those doors, I’m glad you came.”
He pulled out a chair, his expression kind and reassuring.
“Whatever’s happening in your life, you don’t have to make it sound prettier than it is. I’m not here to judge.”
A playful smile tugged at his lips.
“And I make a reasonably good cup of coffee, if that helps.”