"Oh, Elijah," He caught himself. When had he started using the man's first name? "This is dangerous ground."

Elijah looked at him curious. He didn'tknow how it could be. "I'm willing to take that risk. I promise, I will never spout a word you tell me in secret. It's just between you and me." He smiled as he couldn't imagine it was something he'd have to arrest him over.

Gabriel shook his head. "I know you wouldn't. I'm just... lonely sometimes."

Elijah nodded. "I can relate to that. I wish I knew a way to help you that you could have though you're a priest. You deserve to have someone in your life to help you with the loneliness."

He looked at Elijah intently, and then looked down. "Don't worry about it. Thank you, for caring."

Elijah took his hand. "No, please.. tell me." He then blushed and let go. "I am sorry.. But I do care.'

"There's nothing... just loneliness..." he lied.

Elijah sighed and seemed in thought. "I can always introduce you to girls, if you like. I know quite a few who wouldn't mind being around a handsome and kind priest like yourself." Of course he couldn't marry them but having a female friend might help. The hardest part would be the fact they were Protestant.

Gabriel laughed lightly and shook his head. "If I'm seen around girls, they'll send me off to some parish in the middle of nowhere, Elijah."

Elijah shrugged and chuckled softly. "Sorry, was worth a shot. I am happy to hang around you, but I worry I'm not much for company.'