The Dark Society

2

                                            Cottonwood Falls, Kansas

On a sultry spring day, Tim and Julia attended their daughter's high school graduation. At only 17, Sabrina is a marketing major with passions for spirituality and occultism. Through these interests, she developed influential friendships while attending Chase County High School.

Most notably, a profound connection with lifelong practitioner and known spiritualist, Raina Henderson. Since Sabrina was also an occultist, it's natural they'd befriend one another. In time, they met others from Saint Anthony's with similar aptitudes and pursuits. Those being Michelle and Marc Dyson, Kim Savage, Denise Hawthorne, and Rachelle Sullivan.

The group worked to master sacred oaths aspiring students adhered to: Wiccan doctrines. This graduating class was the largest in the academy's history. But. Tim appeared impatient, so Julia provided a much-needed distraction.

"Where is she?" he asked while searching the crowd.

Julia smiled.

 "Be patient; there's a lot to do."

Tim works as an architect for a well-known developer. While Julia oversees the home and mentors Sabrina. Unknown to most, she possesses mystical abilities, so Tim often shields the family.

Sabrina wanted to attend college abroad, and her parents weren't thrilled. This led to many heartfelt discussions about what compromise would be appropriate. But for now, they spent the day savoring their daughter's achievement.

"I thought we wouldn't see you until later," Julia remarked as Sabrina arrived.

She beamed with pleasure as Tim took a picture. Though her parents could be overprotective, she loved seeing them happy. Because their contentment was a source of strength.

"You're going to embarrass me, aren't you?" Sabrina joked.

"Who, me?" her mother replied.

Sabrina approached her father and adjusted his collar.

"Everything all right?"

"There's no need to worry; I'll be fine."

Sabrina hugged him.

"I hope you're proud."

Tim gazed into his daughter's dark eyes.

"You know I am."

Graduates climbed various stages and accepted degrees. A time when families feel joyous and proud. However, the day also heralded periods of change. Considering a college education was a costly expense, many couldn't manage. Ergo, Sabrina stared at her diploma, wondering if she stood fated for something more.

After many heartfelt goodbyes and memorable photos, graduation ended. Later that evening, Tim sat on the porch as Sabrina watched with deep empathy. She'd finally become an adult, but in his eyes, Sabrina would forever be his little girl. With this in mind, she thought the direct approach was best, but as the old porch swing creaked, Tim didn't budge.

"Can we talk?" She pleaded while rocking the door back and forth.

Emotions were clear; his eyes looked bloodshot and swollen. So, Sabrina took a seat, determined to soothe his torment. She'd experienced the challenges of various inexplicable abilities. And though Tim empathized, he wasn't handling the transition well.

"I don't want you to go."

She brushed her dark hair aside.

"If I stay, you'll never forgive yourself, and you'll resent me for not seizing the opportunity."

"You'll be so far away..." he countered. "Alone in a foreign country."

Sabrina hugged him as the bond they shared felt serene. However, nothing eased their spirits despite heartfelt sentiments. An uncertain future awaited, and the risks surpassed a childish suspension or grade. Leaving for college was a reality every parent faced. But Sabrina was growing, and with her gifts, the world wouldn't be as accommodating. Despite that, they'd have to reach a point of acceptance.

"You've done everything asked of you," she said. "I have no resentment, and neither should you."

Tim turned as Julia filled the doorway. Captivated by the bond between a father and his daughter.

"I know you're there," Sabrina said.

"I'll always be," Julia replied, moving onto the porch.