~ Calista ~

Mom comes home hours later, her face bright with satisfaction. A small smile curls her lips as she paces around the living room, humming a church hymn under her breath.

I track her every move from the couch.

Ever since the news broke about the old priest’s death, she’s been sullen. Nothing could cheer her up—until today.

A dark rush of jealousy burns through my chest. Could the new priest be the reason?

What else could explain the sudden change?

No.

Maybe I’m seeing what I want to see. Maybe Mom simply had a good day.

But the thought of her with him crawls under my skin...