The man seemed distressed. Gabriel wanted to tell him not to be afraid. That he wasn't here to condemn. But before he could even say anything, the man already continued. He did not use the proper format for a confession, but once the actual confession came, Gabriel could not even speak to interrupt him. His heart beat fast and he felt the need to swallow a few times. He rested his forearms on his knees and leaned forward as he listened. He closed his eyes. I know.

He usually felt compassion for the penitent, especially when they seemed upset. But this time the compassion was almost overwhelming.

He opened his eyes, but remained quiet for a moment, steadying himself. In the dark, he placed a hand against the wood underneath the grate, almost affectionately. Then he pulled back. He searched for words, eager to comfort. To make him feel better. To help him bear that terrible, lonely burden. He looked up at the grate, and then back down.

"I am not here to condemn you," he finally said in a quiet voice that was a bit higher than usual. "This is not a place of judgement, but of healing and reconciliation. Whatever desires are in you, whatever you struggle with or what you have done, your very coming here and searching for forgiveness is pleasing to God." Her furrowed his brows. "What... I'm sorry for asking this... what happened to cause this relapse? Have you sinned with another man?" He felt nervous about hearing the answer.