3

               "What is it?!" Father Feinstein threw the words at Susie like a spear. Whatever she was about

to tell him was obviously her fault.

               "Father Kevin from St. John's is here to see you! Hee hee!"Sister Susie had the face and

manner of a cheerleader. Long spirals of blond hair fell out of the sides of her black habit, and her

naturally red lips helped to make her rather attractive when she wasn't moving or talking. She

perpetually acted as though her team had just scored a touchdown, ensuring that her current audience

would not boo, hiss, or throw half-empty beer bottles. Privately, she regurgitated thoughts about "the

love of God" to muffle the relentless echoing between her ears. In Father Feinstein's eyes, she was

one of the most devoutly religious people he knew. She looked so natural on her knees.
 

Father Feinstein groaned, "Yeah, Susie.

Send him in."Father Feinstein looked both annoyed

and relieved, much like he had just wet his pants. He wasn't crazy about seeing Father Kevin, but at

least it was an excuse to get rid of the bishop. With no attempt at sincerity, he mouthed his vow to the

bishop and hung up the phone.

               Father Kevin brushed aside the partially open door and walked in. His posture was casual;

only his face seemed tense, as if it awaited the signal to smile. His hair was straight and black, neatly

combed back, and the dress-shirt he wore was also black, except for its white priestly collar. With the

addition of a black leather briefcase in his hand, he had the appearance of a fashionable European

businessman. A shiny gold cross hung on a delicate chain around his neck, and above, he raised a dark

eyebrow. In general, he presented himself as being much taller than he really was, and as usual, was

quite convincing at it.

               Father Kevin reminded Father Feinstein of his mother. He felt the sudden need to confess an

unknown sin anytime he and Father Kevin were in the same room. It was as if the arrogant bastard

actually enjoyed doing God's work-- whether God wanted him to or not.

               "So, how is the recruitment coming along?" Father Kevin asked.

               "Same old shit," Father Feinstein answered. "You know how bishops are."