March 26, 2019, prompt: In 99 words (no more, no less) write a story that uses the word eminence. It’s a rich word full of different meanings. Explore how it sounds or how you might play with it. Go where the prompt leads!
His Eminence the Good and Virtuous Cardinal read the morning paper and cringed as he read of another abuse claim.
He felt a twinge of guilt as he read the charges against one of his priests. It wouldn’t be long before they’d come knocking on his door. But he was a cardinal, and they’d believe his story over any kid who claimed he knew or did anything.
He’d taken years to reach this pinnacle within the Church. Hiding and denying, who’d a thought he be so good at it. He took up his pen and started on the crossword.
Written for: https://carrotranch.com/2019/03/28/march-28-flash-fiction-challenge/
Morpethroad 
A good topic to write about.
Thanks Sadje
You’re welcome
Chillingly too close to the truth.
Especially in my part of the world
Unfortunately a lot of truth in this Michael.
Sadly yes
Such a shame that this is so true.
Very much so in my part of the world
Unfortunately, a true story 😦
Sadly yes
even if they escape judgement in this life, one day they will face the Supreme Judge and there will be no escaping punishment.
Exactly
Wow, that final line really was where I felt the rage against this character. He cares more about his eminence, less about the children he abused or ignored their abuse by others, and can sit with himself and do a crossword puzzle. That’s a powerful piece of literary art, Michael.
Thanks Charli, and very real in my part of the world.
Sadly all too true, and he’s still in his gear and part of the most hypocritical set up of self-righteous Bs …
So true.
Powerful and chilling story about misuse of power.
Thanks Molly. Its a sad part of so many lives.
Desperately sad, but I fear oh too true.
Sadly yes.