AERIS
The morning light filtered through the stained glass windows like blood and gold, painting the empty pews in colors that made everything feel heavier, more forbidden.
I sat through the entire mass with my thighs pressed tight together, knowing what waited for me once the last hymn faded and the congregation filed out.
Father Ronan's voice carried through the church, steady and commanding, but every time our eyes met across the distance I felt the heat coil low in my belly.
When the final amen died away, I lingered.
The church emptied slowly, footsteps echoing against stone until silence settled like a shroud.
I made my way down the side aisle toward the private door that led to the rectory, my heels clicking with each step.
I'd chosen a red dress today and just like last t
