Chapter 2 - The Punishment

Mona sees it fast. Joan doesn't run this place like the Mother Superior used to. She used to be surrounded by warmth, celebrated. Now everything about her feels forbidden, punished, and watched. Mary watches Mona from a distance. Watches the looks Joan gives her, the sneers, the rules that only apply to Mona because she dared to love other women. Mary hates how Joan twists mercy into power. One night Mona pushes back. She tells Joan she won't shrink for anyone. Joan strikes without warning. The slap echoes. The fall is ugly. Joan stands over her until the breath catches. Then she steps back and says Mary can handle the damage. Mary brings water and cloths. Her hands shake. She asks about the other convent, the way Mona lived before shame started following her down every hall. Mona answers plainly, says two women touching each other can still be holy when no man makes the rules. Mary doesn't speak. She leans in, lips brushing Mona's throat. Heat follows. Mona feels the hunger radiating off her. Moments later clothes come undone, bodies press close, sweat mixing with salt. Their mouths cover whatever else they meant to say.