Arousing Sins: Sinful Awakenings Read online

  Arousing Sins

  Sinful Awakenings

  T.M. AMAT

  Red Satin Press

  Copyright © 2022 T. M. AMAT

  All rights reserved

  The characters and events portrayed in this book are fictitious. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, is coincidental and not intended by the author.

  No part of this book may be reproduced, or stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without express written permission of the publisher.

  ISBN: 978-1-7378693-1-3

  Cover design by: Alex Albornoz

  Printed in the United States of America

  For my first hero, my dad,

  Emiliano Amat…

  I did it! You would be so proud.

  Chapter 1

  Anna

  Boston, MA

  He was late.

  I glanced at the time displayed on my cell’s lock screen. My wonderful fiancé was forty minutes late… to our wedding rehearsal. And he hadn’t bothered to answer any of my damn calls.

  “I’m sorry, Father. Please, five more minutes. Then we’ll proceed without him.”

  The kind older priest nodded. Thank God the holy man was understanding and patient.

  “Perhaps my son came to his senses and decided not to go through with this ridiculous wedding.”

  “Mrs. Reed, he’ll be here. I’m sure your husband gave him a huge workload with a timeline, and he’s running late.”

  “Nope,” Mr. Reed replied. “He left the office hours ago.”

  Phillip’s parents have always disapproved of our engagement. Heck, they didn’t even like me. Their reason? Because I wasn’t born into money. In fact, I grew up on the streets. And if it weren’t for Phillip, I’d probably still be there.

  “Don’t listen to them, Anna,” said Cassie, my one and only loyal friend and maid-of-honor. She put her arm around me. “I’m sure he’ll show.”

  The front door of the small church swung open, and in stumbled the man of the hour. My husband-to-be.

  Drunk as a skunk.

  Again.

  The relief of his arrival was short-lived, and my heart sank.

  “Sorry I’m late,” he slurred.

  “Oh, Jesus,” his father mumbled.

  Tears of rage burned the back of my eyes as he hugged me. When he moved to kiss me, I turned my cheek. His breath reeked of alcohol.

  It baffled me as to when and why Phillip had turned into a heavy drinker. Like I blinked, and before realizing it, there was this stranger showing up to our rehearsal smashed. He’d promised to quit but hadn’t followed through. The thought of postponing the wedding crossed my mind, but everything was all set to take place. His parents had paid for everything. I was obligated at this point. But one thing was certain—Phillip wasn’t the same man I’d fallen in love with. And it broke my heart.

  We proceeded with practice. A task that seemed to drag on forever. All I wanted was to rip into him for tainting our special day. That called for privacy, however. I would not give my future in-laws the satisfaction of watching us argue.

  “Babe, don’t be mad at me,” my groom whispered, snaking his arms around my waist as everyone took their leave.

  I waited until the church was empty before speaking. “You said you would stop drinking.”

  “I know. I’m sorry. It’s because of my parents. I knew I’d be facing them tonight. Everything will be back to normal after we’re married. Promise.”

  I pulled away from him, spinning to face him. “I swear to God, Phillip, if you show up to our wedding drunk—”

  “I won’t,” he cut me off. “Not a drop until the reception. For our toast, of course.”

  Of course.

  He smiled, reaching for me. “Hey, we’re all alone. Wanna christen a pew?”

  I gasped, nudging him away. “Are you serious? This is a church.”

  “That’s what makes it exciting. Aren’t you tempted to do something sinful with me?”

  I smirked and shook my head. “I’d love to. But not while you’re drunk.”

  He grunted.

  “In fact, why don’t you go home and sleep it off?”

  “What about the rehearsal dinner?”

  “I’ll go. Everyone will understand why you couldn’t make it.”

  “I can’t let you face my parents alone.”

  “I’m used to it.”

  He pressed his lips together as he eyed me.

  “I’m serious. I got this. Go home. I want you sober and well-rested for tomorrow.”

  “Are you positive?”

  “Yes.”

  He kissed me. “Thanks, babe. You’re the best. Love you.”

  I remained facing the altar until the door opened, then closed. Keeping my focus on the crucifix on the wall, I sat in the first pew and prayed for Phillip… and me.

  After a few minutes of no sign indicating this was a huge mistake, I headed out. But as I reached for the exit’s latch, a noise caught my attention. I paused, listening closely.

  Thud. Creak.

  The sounds were coming from the second floor. Under normal circumstances I would have ignored it, but something told me to investigate. I located the stairs leading to the balcony seating and cautiously ascended.

  Breathing… and low voices… became clearer.

  I held my breath as I came upon the last step and peered over the ledge—

  And froze.

  My eyes widened as my brain tried to make sense of what I was seeing.

  Cassie and Phillip?

  Even as I witnessed them on a pew going at it like dogs in heat, it was hard to believe. Tears blurred my vision as the weight of their betrayal sank in, a bulldozer through my world causing everything to crumble around me.

  Too shocked and consumed with rage to utter a word, I backed up and descended the stairs. Without a second glance back, I got the fuck out of there, slapping away the wetness from my face.

  * * *

  I swung the suitcase onto the bed and tossed my shit inside. How could he do this to me? How could they do this to me? The two people I trusted most in this world.

  I couldn’t marry him. The drinking was one thing. It wasn’t like he was abusive. More annoying than anything else. But cheating? With my best friend? That was unforgivable.

  It was over. His family would be thrilled.

  Oh God, where would I go? Hotel tonight, perhaps. Then I’d figure it out.

  I tackled the dresser, opening all the drawers, and retrieved my belongings. As I moved Phillip’s junk out of the way, my hand knocked against something. A rolled-up towel underneath a stack of shirts. That was strange. The towels didn’t belong there. I removed it, then unrolled—

  A pipe. Like the kind you smoked drugs with.

  My hands shook as I picked up a little plastic bag that contained white powder.

  Phillip was drinking… and doing drugs?

  The tears came back. Or had they ever left?

  The items slipped from my fingers, and I continued packing, focusing on the essentials. I had to escape. Before Phillip got home.

  I couldn’t face the man who’d been lying to me for Lord knew how long. In fact, instead of staying at a local hotel, I’d leave the state. Not sure where to, but anywhere would be better than here.

  First, a stop by the bank. We shared a savings account… Money for our future together. But now I required it for my new life.

  I looked around one last time to make sure I wasn’t forgetting anything important. Then, I tossed the drug paraphernalia and white substance on the center of the bed, along with the keys to the apartment, my
cell phone, and credit cards. The fewer ways to track me, the better.

  Suitcase in hand, I swung my purse over my shoulder and bolted.

  Chapter 2

  Anna

  Cedar Falls, GA

  The clock’s orange hue illuminated from the Nissan Sentra’s dashboard. I’d been on the road for sixteen hours. I yawned as I pulled into the Circle K gas station. Aside from a few short bathroom breaks and refuels, I hadn’t stopped to rest or eat. My back and legs screamed for some stretch relief. And not that I was interested in food, but my stomach rumbled in protest. My goal was to put as much distance as possible between me and Boston. That was the priority.

  I stepped out of the car and the heat engulfed me, generating an instant prickle of sweat on my forehead. The humidity’s thickness cut through my lungs as I admired the large oak trees scattered along the landscape. A few pops reverberated down my back as I lengthened my spine, taking in the sight of the cloudless sky.

  Georgia.

  According to the sign I’d passed coming off the exit, I was in a town called Cedar Falls. Seemed like a good place to hide in for a while. The heat was a small price to pay for a fresh start.

  I grabbed my purse and left the pump in the gas tank. In the restroom, after splashing water on my face, I lifted my gaze and stared at myself in the mirror. My eyes were red and puffy from crying and lack of sleep.

  Lovely.

  I removed the tie from the messy bun on top of my head and fluffed out my long-tangled tresses. A makeover was what I needed. If I planned to overhaul my life, I might as well go all out. A simple haircut would do the trick. Gathering my hair back into the twist, I finished up in the bathroom and searched the aisles for a pair of scissors. They were in the small toiletry section. I made my purchase, along with a cup of coffee, a pack of trail mix, a newspaper, and the gas.

  The cash I withdrew wouldn’t last forever. So, I needed a job, hence the paper… and to search for a place to rent.

  “Where can I find the closest motel?” I asked the clerk as she rang me up.

  “There’s one about two miles down the road. Just turn left out of the parking lot,” the woman answered, handing me my change.

  “Great. Thank you.”

  I had no trouble finding the inn. First, some Chinese takeout, then, after acquiring the room key and getting comfortable, I scanned the classified section. My eyes landed on a two-bedroom furnished house for rent. The monthly payment and deposit seemed reasonable. I snatched the telephone off the nightstand and dialed the number posted.

  A woman answered. “Hello?”

  “Hi. I’m inquiring about the listing for the rental.”

  Some questions and answers later, an appointment was set to view the place first thing in the morning.

  With that settled, I moved on to the help wanted section. There were several retail and restaurant positions which I skimmed over. Those didn’t interest me. I needed something more—

  I perked up as an ad for an office assistant at a church rectory caught my attention.

  Interesting.

  What could be safer than working at a parish? Thanks to my job at Phillip’s father’s company, I met the qualifications specified.

  It was a long shot, but I dialed the number listed and…

  No answer.

  I’d go to Mass tomorrow after the appointment and speak to the priest. How tacky was it to ask for employment after Sunday worship?

  Super tacky.

  They’d probably tell me to come back on Monday, but it was worth a try. Desperate times called for desperate measures. Persistence was key. I wouldn’t take no for an answer.

  Chapter 3

  Anna

  The two-bedroom house was perfect.

  The landlord wanted to do a reference and background check, but since I was paying six months’ rent up front in cash, the woman agreed to waive the hassle. Those things would take too long. Besides, my only references were Phillip’s close friends and family, whom I’d worked with. No way they’d help me, especially after they find out I left Phillip. And, not to mention, it’d give them a clue of my location.

  After shaking on it and signing the rental agreement, I had a new place to call home. Now I could concentrate on getting that office assistant job.

  Speaking of which, I hurried inside to get ready for Mass. I settled on a knee-length, flowy, cream-colored dress I’d purchased for my honeymoon. Hopefully, some good would come of it. A quick refresh to my makeup and a brush through my new chin-length hair, and I was all set.

  The church was less than ten miles from my new home and the construction appeared modern with its white stucco exterior and cathedral ceilings. There was also an expansion attached to the primary building, which I assumed was for Religious Education classes and other activities. On the other side of the area, across from the main church, there was a small house which must be the rectory, where the priests lived. The property was extensive.

  Once parked, I rushed toward the entrance, hoping I wasn’t too late. As I pulled open the light oak door, the familiar smells of holy water and incense hit me, mixed with fresh paint and new wood. The entryway expanded to a spacious atrium. The sounds of an organ vibrated beyond another set of doors.

  The music ended as I entered. They had completed the opening prayers and were moving on to the First Reading.

  An usher pointed out an open space among the pews. I quietly thanked him, then made my way down the aisle, genuflected, and slid in as I apologized and excused myself. Settled at last, I relaxed, breathing deep as I looked up at the Altar in search of the priest who—

  I found him. Or rather, he found me. His line of vision aimed in my direction.

  He wasn’t at all what I expected. He was… young. Well, relatively… thirties or forties. And dare I say… good-looking? His complexion was golden, sun-kissed, and his hair dark. Eyes… light. Maybe gray or green.

  Were priests allowed to look like GQ models? And why would he want to become a priest with looks like that?

  This might warrant a confession later.

  The reverend broke eye contact first with a subtle nod and slight smile as the First Reading ended. Everyone proceeded with the Responsorial Psalm, then came the Second Reading. Afterward, I followed everyone’s lead and stood as the priest took his place at the pulpit to read the Gospel and homily.

  I enjoyed hearing him speak. He spoke to the congregation like a friend. And, by the looks of it, everybody seemed to love him. The people focused on him in awe. When he finished, there was a unity of approving grunts with the priest’s message. His persuasive words and soothing voice even motivated me to do good and help someone in need.

  The Mass continued, and when it was time to give a sign of peace to one another, people moved from their seats to shake hands, including the priest.

  He approached me and took my hand. “Peace be with you. And welcome.” The warmth of his touch eased me. But also sent a wave of goosebumps up my arm.

  Green. His eyes were green. “Thank you. Peace be with you,” I replied, mesmerized and a little star-struck.

  During Communion, the corners of his eyes crinkled as he held the Eucharist up to me. “Body of Christ.”

  “Amen,” I responded, taking the white wafer into my mouth.

  A few moments later, the closing hymn sprang to life as Mass ended. The priest and other clergy exited down the aisle.

  The music continued as the parishioners took their leave. I followed the crowd, heading toward the atrium. The priest came into view. He stood by the open doors, shaking hands with those who departed.

  I veered off to the side to wait for the crowd to die down, letting those behind me pass. I’d rather talk to him without haste.

  A beautiful, busty older woman shook the priest’s hand. She was tall and had wavy brown shoulder-length hair.

  The priest threw back his head, laughing at something she said. The deep, hearty sound echoed in the room… and I got goosebumps for the seco
nd time. He had a charming smile, a long dimple on one side, and perfect white teeth. His eyes twinkled, which emphasized the fine lines around them.

  I stared, mesmerized by the man in priest attire, flirting back with a woman who was obviously no stranger to him. I refused to judge or jump to conclusions, but I didn’t blame her. The reverend was hot. He probably made nuns blush.

  The priest’s eyes lifted, meeting my gaze dead-on. My breath caught and my spine grew rigid. I closed my mouth, not realizing it had been gaping open. He tilted his head and smiled. Then turned his attention back to the woman.

  * * *

  Fr. Anthony

  The young newcomer who’d arrived late stood off to the side. I assumed she wanted to speak with me. It pleased me when fresh faces introduced themselves.

  I refocused on my old friend. “Evelyn, thanks for that wonderful compliment, as always. Not sure I’d consider myself as good a speaker as Jesus but thank you just the same.”

  “Anytime.”

  “I’ll see you tomorrow at our scheduled appointment.”

  “Wouldn’t miss it.” She held on to my hand as she leaned forward and kissed me on the cheek. “Goodbye, Father.”

  “Bye, Eve. Enjoy the rest of your weekend.”

  I continued greeting parishioners as they exited. And the unknown girl made her way toward me.

  “Hello, Father,” she said, smiling wide and extending her palm. “My name is Anna Ward.”

  She looked younger than I’d thought. My guess was mid to late twenties. Her hair was short and light brown. And her eyes almost glowed, like a golden brown. I accepted her handshake. “Hello, Anna. I’m Father Anthony, but most people call me Father Ant. So glad you could join us today.”

  “Thank you. You have a beautiful church. And everyone is so friendly.”