At precisely 9:30 pm, I made my way inside the main hall of the rectory and was walking down the hall to the room when one of the sisters suddenly came out of her room.

“Did you need any assistance, dear?” she asked kindly. Oh shit, I had to think fast.

“No thank you, Sister. The kitchen would like to know if you want some tea.”

“Oh, how thoughtful of you, dear. Yes, that would be nice. Just tap on my door when it’s ready.”

With that, she went back into her room. So there was a snag in my plans, but at least I had a solid excuse for being in the hallway now. I was still feeling optimistic.

Ten minutes later, I was back in the hallway, a cup of steaming tea in hand. After giving the nun her tea, which she took with a smile and a blessing in my name, I was back in business.

I tiptoed down the hall, hearing the wordless hush of whispered prayers behind closed doors. The hallway smelled of must and lit candles, a heady scent. I inhaled deeply, giddy with anticipation. The room was just a few steps away…