Chéri still couldn’t understand the conversation between the brits and at this point, they weren’t even trying really. But whatever was happening, they didn’t think Gabriel was very happy. Or chatty. Were priests weird here? Or it was themselves? They turned to Francis, hoping to received some answer, but couldn’t ask the question. So they just sipped more milk.

They also weren’t expecting much of an answer when they asked about Malachi’s sleep. They just smiled brightly, as much as they did before, keeping what they had or hadn’t heard for themselves. Priests apparently didn’t have all the answers, not in this town. For a moment, they even thought the older priest was going to leave, so they batted they long lashes in surprise when he didn’t and then they were glad, because finally some introductions were happening.

Chéri waved their hands at Francis and smiled again “Hello, fellow guest.” They only said, cheerful to the only other person who was smiling. Then they turned first to Malachi, then to Gabriel, probably imagining the reaction he might have had in hearing their name “And no worries, I intend to find a situation for myself by today.” They had the sense the hospitality wasn’t exactly offered with pleasure.

Food couldn’t be ruined, but they were starting to get close enough. Chéri gulped the last part of the bread slice and wondered if they could have more. They were a very hungry individual who had had limited access to food for a few days. Also, food was joy, and the presbytery needed all of that right now.