The Empty Confessional by Hogan Tom

Author:Hogan, Tom
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Laughing Dog Publishing LLC
Published: 2022-05-30T00:00:00+00:00

Eighteen

THE TWO PRIESTS entered the high school track through the open gate, their pace strong, their strides even. The running singlets clung to their bodies, the sweat forming a large half-moon, starting at the top of their shirts and working down to their navels. They had started at the seminary, running the first few miles through the forest that backed up to the chapel. The path was well-trodden but narrow, forcing the two men to run single file. The trees were heavy with leaves, as if readying themselves to drop once autumn gave them the signal.

By mutual agreement, Paul was in charge of designing the routes for their runs. He generally chose a different route for each outing, saying he was determined to see as much of Pittsburgh as possible before he left. Given that most runs were unique, he carried a three by five card with the route in his left hand. After the tenth such run, Gabe had chided him, saying that he seemed determined to cross every one of the city’s 446 bridges, an allegation that drew only a small shrug in response. But that day, Paul had reverted to their favorite route, through the Allegheny Cemetery. With its hills, proximity to the river, and eclectic wildlife, it was a welcome change from their urban runs.

The track they entered was well cared for, with the surrounding buildings showing new coats of paint. Both the girls’ and boys’ track teams were out on the field, with activity concentrating around the high-jump and pole vault pits.

“What’s your pedometer say?” Paul asked Gabe as they jogged around the track, cooling down.

“A little over six miles. Just short of a 10K.”

“Some speed work to finish up?” Paul nodded at the track ahead of them. Before Gabe could answer, Paul took off, his speed impressive for his age. Gabe caught up to him halfway around the track and the two continued apace, Paul pulling ahead slightly at the finish. They slowed to a walk, then ambled over to the bleachers and sat down.

“Bastard,” Paul said, regaining his breath. “I saw you slow down at the end, letting me win.”

“Just trying to lessen my time in purgatory.”

They sat together in companionable silence, both of them resting their forearms on their knees, letting the sweat drip down from their chins. Without looking up, Paul said, “How are the dreams coming? I’m asking out of prurient interest, not as your mentor.”

“I thought you hated that word.”

“I do, but if it gets you to open up about naked women and orgies, I’ll use it.”

“In that case, I’m going to find out what the Pink Pussycat charges and charge you the same rate,” Gabe replied. “As for the dream, it’s getting more explicit. My partner now has a face. It’s Michelle, the teacher I was telling you about. I’m not surprised. She’s attractive, and I’ve had a bit of a crush on her for years now. As have most seminarians.”

“Any danger of your acting on that crush? Living out the dream?”

“The truth? I don’t know.

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