24: Bettina's plan

Across the pale evening sky, St. XXX church loomed with its towering spire pointing to heaven as if in silent prayer. Inside, the air was cool and mellowed with the sweet tones of incense, a reminder of sacred ceremonies that had been held in the place. Her heart pounding in her chest, Bettina sounded along the stone floor as she walked with a purpose down the nave of the church.

Father Henry was at the altar on his knees in deep meditation. Shadows from the flickering candlelight danced against his serene face, bringing clarity into the cool resolution of his eyes. He did not hear Bettina as she approached him, and it was not until she almost stood beside him that he noticed her presence in the stillness of the sacredness about them.

"Father Henry," she called out sharply, her voice cutting through the air like a knife.

Henry turned, a look of surprise crossing his features before he composed himself. "Miss Bettina, what brings you here at this hour?"

Bettina took a deep breath, steadying herself. "We need to talk," she said firmly. "About Khana."

Henry nods his head and leads the way to the confession room. So, they can have a proper conversation.

Bettina squared her shoulders, determination etched in every line of her face. "I know she has been coming to see you," she began. "I know you have been spending time together, and I'm here to tell you it has to stop."

Henry's eyes narrowed slightly, but he remained silent, waiting for her to continue.

"Khana is my friend," Bettina said, her voice trembling with emotion. "But she doesn't know what she is getting herself into. Her family. her family is everything to her. Their business is their life, their legacy. If she gets involved with you, it will destroy everything they worked for."

Bettina went on, "My family will no longer cooperate with their business. My family will take over their family business. If you don't want her to suffer, then persuade her to marry my cousin."

Henry finds it hard to respond. He simply listened to whatever Bettina would say. He was deeply wounded, but what else can he do? It was faith that played with their life.

"Khana's family runs one of the most reputable businesses in the city. They have worked for generations to build it. If word gets out that she's involved with a priest, it will ruin them. People will talk, and clients will leave. The scandal will destroy everything they’ve worked for. And, you will banned from the Vatican, if you value your profession, stop giving her hope."

Henry's expression turned grim. "I'm aware of the potential consequences, but I assure you, I never gave her hope. It was your friend who couldn't understand our situation."

Bettina laughed bitterly. "Tell that to the marine. Why would you be in her house that morning? You could have met in this church. You know she is engaged to my cousin! Richard has been in love with Khana for years, and they were meant to be together. Your presence is driving a wedge between them. You’re not just playing with Khana's heart, you’re jeopardizing her future, her family's livelihood, and hurting someone who loves her deeply."

Bettina's tone softened slightly, sensing his inner turmoil. She firmly added, "You have a choice, Father. You can save her from a world of pain. You can protect her and Richard from heartbreak. But you need to step back. Let her go."

Even though Henry didn't want to cry, his heart ached. He thought he was ready to let Khana go, but thinking about Khana getting married to someone she doesn't love wholeheartedly makes him sad. They had the right love back then but at the wrong time. Now, everything is wrong.

Henry looked away, the burden of his vows and his feelings for Khana warring within him. He had dedicated his life to serving God, but his connection with Khana was undeniable. Yet, Bettina's words made it clear: his path would lead only to destruction for the woman he cared about.

A tear fell from his eyes as he swore to drive her away. He had told her many times to let go, but she kept coming back. He can't help but question himself, 'What if she doesn't come back?'

His mind reminds him, 'Isn't it the right thing? If she doesn't come back, then everything will be in place.'

After a long silence, Henry nodded slowly. "I understand, Bettina. I will do what needs to be done."

There was a moment of silence engulfed between them. Suddenly, Bettina broke the silence. She heaved a heavy breath and uttered, "You may think of me as the antagonist, but I'm doing what is right. You are a priest, you should have known better what is good and evil."

"You can blame me if you want. God knows how much I did my best to convince her to let go of our past. I warned her many times, but she kept her ears closed. You better talk to her as well, and give her senses back," Henry replied.

Bettina did not argue. She knew her friend was a wild thing. When Khana is in love, she'll do anything to get it. Richard managed to convince Khana back then, but seeing how crazy her friend is nowadays, she wouldn't be surprised if Khana took the rough path just to have what she desires. The only thing that Khana gets weakened is her pity for something.

Bettina's shoulders relaxed a little, and her body's tension washed from her like a gush of water. She cleared her throat and replied, "Thank you, Father. Remember, this is for the best. I expect you to cooperate with me."

Without another word, Bettina opened the door of the confession room. She turned and strode down the aisle, her footsteps echoing off the cavernous space.

On the other hand, Henry stayed in the confession room and left only upon hearing a click of heels approaching the main door of the church. The priest stood at the altar, still staring at the flickering candles, as the weight of his decision seemed to settle heavily upon him.

As the door in the church closed behind Bettina, Henry whispered a silent prayer, seeking strength and guidance for the days to come. He knew what he had to do, but it would be the hardest thing he ever had to face.

On the other hand, Bettina smirked and mumbled, "Since pity is her weakness. I shall do something about it. I'll make their wedding possible by hook or by crook."