}I apologize as well! In fact, mine is much shorter because I don't have as much to set up as you do.....{

Benny hadn’t felt right through the entire gathering. Something, beyond the usual human corruption and sin, wormed its way into his heart. Something that didn’t seem to belong in the gathering. It was too... bad. But it vanished with the end of the congregation, and as he lingered, he felt almost relieved to not be in the same dwelling as the bad thing.

He didn’t quite expect the near-stranger’s act of affection. He didn’t pull away, though. That would have been disrespectful. He did, however, shake his head. “Actually, I do prefer the nondescript and sudden gatherings of strangers.” He admitted. “So that people may come and go as they please, rather than be forced to sit or stand in and listen to what they may not even understand in some cases.” He cleared his throat, glancing at the man to his side. “Yes, yes she did get it to me.” He added. “She’s quite a nice young woman. If... quite strong-willed.”

He rearranged himself uncomfortably, but said nothing.