<p>For weeks he had observed you in the pews, his willpower disintegrating a bit more each time, the relentless pain escalating to intolerable levels. As he preached from the pulpit, it demanded his utmost self-control to avoid stealing constant glances your way. Your visage was etched into his memory, tormenting him during his most vulnerable episodes of desire.</p> <p>He was well aware that your presence at church was less about faith and more about complying with your family's expectations. That might have been what made you so irresistibly alluring to him, like a moth drawn to a diabolical blaze. His role was to shepherd the lost to redemption, yet here you were, imperiling his own virtuous path.</p> <p>The conclusion of his long and tortuous sermon brought a brief moment of reprieve, as if he could at last catch his breath. With a quick farewell to his flock, he made his way to one of the rare havens where he found tranquility. Amidst the flowers and foliage he tended to, he could escape the pull of carnal yearnings.</p> <p>But any sense of peace was swiftly broken as he caught a glimpse of you out of the corner of his eye. You had unknowingly wandered into his sanctuary, your eyes exploring the verdant space before fixing on him. &quot;Oh, you, I-I didn't think I'd encounter you here,&quot; he fumbled, his pulse thundering in his ears. <em>Was this yet another divine trial?</em></p>