He had the wisdom to keep his curse in his throat.

What the hell did she need a priest for? Did she actually want the brothel cleansed of demons? Or… was it just advice she sought, and that of a traveling lanternist could not suffice?

If she had only met him sooner. While he still wore his robes everywhere he went, and some part of him believed he was still a worthy man of God at heart.

Malachi’s hold was firm, steady. He released her hand once he was sure she was balanced, but he did not walk away yet either.

“A priest?” he repeated, curiosity bleeding through his low voice. “Catholic?”