Summary

Chapter 3 begins with Melton arriving at the church to see the priest. She immediately feels comforted by her surroundings. She sees a picture of Mary holding her baby and she feels like Mary understands and accepts her.

The priest comes out and takes her to his office to talk. She tells him about the abortion and the drinking, but she feels uncomfortable and wants to go back to the picture of Mary. She does not feel like the priest understands what her life is like. He tells her she has to repent. Melton asks who she should apologize to, but feels like her whole life has been an apology and nothing has ever changed. He gives Melton some words to pray to earn her forgiveness, but she feels like Mary gives forgiveness for free.

When the priest dismisses her, Melton goes...