SHADOW OF A RECLUSE 

By Tessa Harvey


    Sylvie had heard enough horror stories about the church to last a lifetime. Still, she reasoned, perhaps he was a real Christian. Stories were also known of people such as Mother Teresa. The nun had worked selflessly in order that as far as she and those working with her could manage, no-one died alone, bereft or lonely in a filthy gutter or dingy side-street.
    Later, Tarrant had driven Sylvie and the three children home. Now they were playing happily with the puppy. The mother had whined when they left, but also looked visibly relieved to have only two rambunctious  offspring to nurture, instead of three.
    Tarrant now faced the minister. He looked at him apprehensively. A twinkle in the other's eye and a warm handshake made him less wary. Sensing this the young churchman chatted for a while and, eventually, stumbling over his words, Tarrant told him his dream.

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