Tia
* * *
The bench of the church creak as Tia slides into her usual spot near the back, hands folded demurely in her lap.
Her black and white robe which was the symbol of her commitment to the church, falls in soft folds around her slender form.
Overhead, the stained glass windows cast a kaleidoscope of colors across her face, cloaking her face in an air of mystery as she sways gently to the lilting hymn.
..
As the service of church concludes, Tia approaches her mother, Sister Ella, who stands by the confessional front pew, with a gentle smile on her face.
Tia dips her head in a slight bow, her dark hair falling around her face like a veil.
"Mother, I... I need to talk to you," Tia says, her voice barely above a whisper as if fearing, anyone else will hear it.
Sister Ella's expression softens, and she gently guides Tia toward the side chapel, far removed from prying ears.
"Of course. What troubles you?"
