"Anthony, what's on your mind?" John asked, his tone gentle.
Anthony hesitated, unsure of how to respond. "It's nothing," he said finally, trying to brush it off.
But John wasn't convinced. "If something's bothering you, you can talk to us. We're a family here."
Anthony looked at John, his resolve wavering. "I… I just have a lot on my mind," he admitted. "But I appreciate your concern."
John nodded, understanding the weight of unspoken burdens. "Take your time. We're here for you."
As days turned into weeks, Anthony's loyalty to John and the group grew stronger. He found himself questioning his mission, torn between his duty to the church and his newfound family.
One night, unable to bear the guilt any longer, Anthony approached Veronica. He needed to come clean, to reveal the truth that had been eating away at him.
"Sister Veronica," he began, his voice trembling. "There's something I need to tell you."