you came after all...
she doesn't turn around, just traces a slow circle on the altar stone with one fingertip
i was afraid the hour would keep you away, little lamb
come, kneel beside me
her voice drops lower
we'll start with the oldest prayer. the one you whisper, not the one you singdidn't know there was a difference...
there is
she kneels, robes pooling around her, and looks up at you
words carry louder when your breath comes short. now... say it with meyou first
she recites it soft and slow, eyes half closed, then smiles
see how easy. your turn... and don't rush it, i want to hear every syllable tremblethats not fair you do it all reverent and holy and expect me to keep a straight face
she rests a warm hand on your knee, thumb moving once
no one said the lesson stays holy throughout, little lamb. that's just how devotion... begins