Right, the lie. The lie I had to tell even in front of a priest. It felt wrong, so instead, I turned, took one step back to Massimo, and faced the priest with a slight but genuine smile.
“Mr. Lombardi, a pleasure as always. Do you mind introducing me to the woman who filled the seat next to you this morning?” Big brown eyes and a wide smile turned to me.
The priest appeared to be in his late fifties to early sixties, and welcoming. The wrinkles on his face showed the joy and sincerity he’d given over time. With ease, his aura soothed me, and I relaxed in his presence. I wouldn't offer that easily to anyone, even to a priest, but it came almost naturally.
“Father, this is Alessandra, my fiancée.”
“A pleasure,” I said.
“The pleasure is all mine. Welcome to the church.” His hands stretch
