Arthur allowed himself to fall back and his the confessional with a heavy thump, the impact jolting his shoulder and making him flinch.  Malachi's question made him laugh again, but it was quiet this time.

How many times had Arthur been asked that before?  Countless times, he was certain.  Throughout his entire life, by nearly every person that had met him.  It was more of a comfort to hear Malachi say it than it was an insult.

"Lots," he said, standing up straight again, supporting himself against the confessional.  "I don't have a list, but I can think of many things off the top of my head."

And what a strong reaction from the man too!  Arthur wasn't surprised - people were always so protective over children, but Malachi did not just seem like a priest concerned about some child.  Arthur was suspicious of the girl's origins.

"Really, tell me who she is, please!  You have me curious now, Mal, is she your daughter?  You're acting as protective as a father, and not just of the church."