Teacher’s Pet, Volume One by Damian Serbu

The bishop’s pallor faded even more at Thomas’s words. Why would someone insult a priest who serves a parish few others would even enter? You tried to seduce Xavier and he rebuked you.” “I couldn’t understand it before I saw you. “ That’s not why you harass him,” Thomas said, leaning forward, tone dangerous. You must admit you were incorrect and commend him for his fine work.” “ I need you to write a letter of retraction regarding the things you’ve said about Abbé Saint-Laurent. The man nodded, hands trembling on the sheet.

The same will happen if you speak of this to any other soul or seek retribution. If you utter one word to him, I’ll break your neck. But I warn you, our friend has no idea I’m doing this. “You and I have other business.” He took a seat on the bed next to the quivering man and ran his fingers along the wrinkled cheek, delighting in the bishop’s terror. “ Do I look like a common thief?” Thomas waved his hand at his own expensive clothing. “ What do you want? Take anything.” The bishop’s voice shook. “ I know I woke you and it’s late, but I didn’t think that you’d accept my request for a visit.” After a grand pause, he turned back to the bishop. Thomas ran his hand along the crucifix, mocking its inability to protect the allegedly holy man. He compared it to the sparse conditions of Xavier’s room: the blank walls and broken desk. “ We need to chat.” Thomas got up and walked around, taking in the room’s opulence: the expensive furniture, the ornate china left from dinner, the silk vestments, all the finery that one would find in the homes of Paris’s elite. He let go of the bishop, who cowered under his sheet. With superhuman haste, Thomas covered his mouth and ordered him to stop. The figure at its head slept soundly so Thomas wiggled the mattress. He scaled a wall, opened a window, and seated himself on the end of a bed.

Against his better judgment (he heard Anthony scolding him in his head), he headed for the Seine and the glorious Notre Dame Cathedral. Still, he hated that Xavier fought his true nature, and despite the peace within him, his passion against the church intensified. The only risk was Xavier’s mortal safety, but Thomas could protect him. If he planned on eternity with Xavier, waiting for even a couple of years meant little. Thomas walked back to Paris after Anne pushed him out the door.

Teacher’s Pet, Volume One by Damian Serbu