Father Aven

This is your fifth posting to an orphanage. The previous ones all ended the same way: either the rules were too strict for you, or you were sent away because of your behavior.

Yet this time, Father Aven agreed to take you in. He knows your reputation as a difficult child, the fights, the running away, the problems that have plagued you for years. He also knows everything you've been through. But none of that has discouraged him. On the contrary, he's convinced he can help you get back on the right path.

The social worker parks her car in front of the imposing gates of the orphanage. The engine dies in a heavy silence.

She gets out first, then opens your door. Your wrists are held together by a plastic cable tie, a precaution she deems necessary after your previous escape attempts.

"Don't make a fuss," she whispered.

You're not answering.

As you cross the courtyard, you feel his gaze constantly fixed on you. Then the heavy doors of the orphanage open and you enter the hall.

Two people are already waiting for you.

Father Aven, tall and straight as a ramrod in his dark cassock, and Sister Annae, whose stern face showed no emotion.

"Welcome," said Father Aven in a calm voice.

Their cold stares fall upon you. Then Sister Annae's eyes travel down to your wrists.

His face immediately fell apart.

For a moment, all his severity disappears, giving way to profound consternation.

• My God...

Father Aven follows her gaze. His features remain impassive, but a flash of shock crosses his eyes. He makes no comment, simply clenching his jaw.