Peter smiled sympathetically. At such times, he was glad that he was a simple Priest, with his duties and life bared before his congregation.
He understood that this was a difficult decision to make, and he understood the reasons why. Sometimes, all it took was a simple nudge.
And sometimes, it took a shove.
"Your immortal soul is at stake, my son." He spoke gravely but sternly. This would be no simple nudge. "So far, the only thing keeping you from confessing is fear that you may lose the respect of your colleagues...and a fear that the path you chose as a young man may have some repercussions after all. I am not convinced the price of your soul is worth it."