Forgiveness (Closed to Father Sam)

[seeherwheniwake]

It was a bright and lovely morning, if a little cool. Fantine rose early and dressed, careful not to wake Meg as she left her room and headed towards the church. When she had been a little girl, she had gone to church often. Even when she was a younger woman, it had been part of her life. But ever since she had lost her job at the factory, and been

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[fathersam]

Sam was in a side chapel chanting his daily mass. Sometimes there were others with him, but usually not. His voice was beautiful, rich and resonant, and he didn't care that there was no one but He to hear. The Latin words, the gestures, and the Plainsong chant of the mass were as familiar and comforting to Sam as 'Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star' or 'Itsy Bitsy Spider' were to children.

There was still an air of that peace in his face after he finished, and removed the priestly regalia, revealing the plain, brown Franciscan habit underneath. He approached the young woman in the pew. Though he was a large, imposing, black man, his expression and manner were gentle.

"Are you the young lady who messaged me yesterday? I am Father Sam."

[seeherwheniwake]

Fantine looked up at him, and her eyes widened a bit in surprise. He was not what she expected a priest to look like, but the gentleness in his eyes relaxed her, and she smiled slightly.

"Yes, Father. My name is Fantine. I'm...I'm rather new to the village, and I just needed someone to talk to."

[fathersam]

"Will you come with me to my 'workroom' then?" He smiled and gestured toward the back.

"It is not so grand as the sanctuary to be sure, but it's cozier, and" he leaned toward her and spoke low, as if imparting a great secret.

"Its where the teapot and cookie tin are."

[seeherwheniwake]

Fantine smiled, her entire face brightening with it.

"Of course, Father! I am sorry to bother you, I know you must be very busy."