versation over and over in his mind. Cersei had finally opened up to him in a way she never had before, and in that moment, he realized just how deep

down on him more than ever. His thoughts kept straying to her, wondering how she was doing, what she was feeling. But he also knew he had to be cautious.

each time he saw Cersei, he felt a pull that was impossible to ignore. Her transformation was undeniable; he had seen the

, the only light coming from a lamp by his desk. His fingers rested lightly on th

rrupted his thoughts, and his

r Lorenzo's voice, filled w

wn he couldn't avoid the conversation for much longer. Lorenzo entered the room

e down, leaning forward with an intensity that made it clear he had been thinking about this for some time. "Yo

realized how much his friend had noticed. "I'm just... b

fferent. I've known you too long to not notice." Lorenzo's voice soft

heart raced as he stared at his friend, unsure of how much to reveal. Cou

s tone gentle but firm. "I know you care about her. But you're

oo close. I'm just doing my job, Lorenzo. I'm helping her find a way out. You don't under

appens when priests get too close to their parishioners. I've seen it happen before, Hart. It doesn't end well. You

I won't fall like they did." His voice was sharp, his eyes flickering with frustration.

n't happen overnight. And the closer you get, the harder it will be for you to see th

a reality he couldn't escape. He had taken vows, and if he strayed f

ered, his voice breaki

you need to be careful. I've seen priests fall before, Hart. I've seen them justify their actions, telling

nking in. Father Hart felt a cold chill run through him. Was he losing control?

ed softly. "You're my best friend. But I can't stand

s words were wise, but they also cut deep, because they spoke to a truth Father Hart had been trying to deny. Cersei ha

d, his voice quieter now, more reflec

sad, knowing smil

er, his mind wandering back to Cersei. She had asked for his help, and he had given it-he had tried to guide her out of

ing her, or was he

duty and his feelings was growing wider with each passing day. The fear that had been creeping into his mind was no

e feeling that the decision had already been made for