The man didn’t answer him – he couldn’t even meet his eyes. This was an outrage as far as Michael was concerned. He had confessed his sins, as required by his Church, especially before his wedding day. Who the hell did Father Riordan think he fucking was? The cheek of him.

‘You can’t stand in judgement of me, Father, and we both know that. You’re acting strangely, and I really don’t like it. I confessed to you so I could get married free and clear. That’s the Church’s teaching, not mine. I’ve repented for all my wrongdoings and, as far as I’m concerned we are square, mate. But if you don’t sort yourself out, we are going to have a serious problem.’

It was a threat, and Father Riordan knew it. He had never thought for one second that his chosen life in the priesthood would eventually make him question not only his faith, but everything that he had ever believed in. This handsome young man, who came to Mass every Sunday, gave generously to the parish, who looked like any decent God-fearing individual, was about to marry a lovely young girl, and live happily ever after, was a devil in disguise. He had made a choice. He had known that he had committed a mortal sin, and he had only confessed so he could put it behind him and get married with a clear conscience. Father Riordan was well aware that Michael Flynn felt no real sorrow for what he had done – he was playing at being repentant. But true repentance was the whole point of the confessional – without being truly sorry for your sins, it was meaningless.

‘Are you listening to me, Father?’

The priest looked into Michael’s eyes; whatever he did now would lay the foundations for the future. He prayed silently for the strength that he needed.

‘I’m listening to you, Michael. But I don’t feel that I can see you again. I know that I am failing you as a priest, but I have to follow my own heart, my own conscience.’

Michael was very quiet. He could see that Father Riordan was serious. Michael knew that he wasn’t being awkward or deliberately obtuse. This was a real dilemma – for both of them.

‘I trusted you, Father. Now I feel that was a big mistake on my part.’

The priest shook his head vigorously. ‘No, Michael, you didn’t make a mistake. Anything you might have told me in the confessional is sacrosanct. I can never repeat it to a living soul, and I wouldn’t, I can assure you of that. But I can’t act like it never happened, Michael. I have to go away from here.’