The Dark Society

5

 Tim gazed upon horizons that morning, knowing today was the day. Despite Sabrina's reassurances, feelings of sadness surged.

"What are you doing out here?" Julia inquired, stepping onto the porch.

"Has Sabrina woken up?"

"No," she replied. "She's still asleep."

Julia cuddled against him.

"She'll be all right, I know it."

"I hope so," he answered, before escorting his wife into the house.

Sabrina peeked from under an afghan as her father approached.

"It won't take much to wake her."

"How come?" she asked.

"Do you sleep with your eyes open?"

"Sabrina Michelle!" her mother called out.

Tossing the comforter, she smirked as Julia laughed and returned to the kitchen. Sabrina followed immediately and smiled at the sight on the stovetop.

"Your favorites," her mother said, gesturing. "Strawberry waffles, country sausage and chocolate chip pancakes."

Sabrina's smile widened.

"You're the best."

Her mother chuckled as Sabrina greeted her father before heading to the bathroom.

"She'll be strong like the others," he said as Julia approached.

"That's what frightens me."

The family settled on a simple day of activities. Not wanting Sabrina's last day home to be a solemn affair. Following a fulfilling breakfast, everyone savored an afternoon of trawling and boating. (activities she'd loved since adolescence). Though, as five o'clock neared, reality settled in and Sabrina took in the glorious sunset.

"You should gather your things," Tim remarked while securing moorings.

His daughter made her way up the grassy hill, fighting tears.

"Come on," he urged, taking her hand. "It won't be that bad."

She nestled closer.

"It already is."

Their plans were simple. Sabrina would leave Kansas City and arrive in Boston for a connecting flight to London. Though it'd be her first time away, she felt excited by opportunities hard work yielded. Still, she was apprehensive about leaving, despite promises of a prosperous future.

Riding into Midtown that evening, Sabrina focused on taking pictures. As downtown's skyline emerged, she felt connected to its familiar cosmos. She'd visited the capital many times before, but never for such a significant reason. This was why traveling to Europe felt intimidating, and Tim sensed apprehension.

"Are you all right?"

Sabrina sat staring at several planes at the gate.

"I'm fine."

Tim struggled with luggage as his daughter observed the metropolis. As she did so, Sabrina appeared pale and tired despite preventative measures.

"Do you think we'll find him?" Sabrina joked as Tim disappeared into the terminal.

"Let's hope so," Julia responded as they entered the airport.

"Do you have everything?"

"Yes, I suppose."

"Hello, welcome to American Airlines," the clerk greeted. "May I have your ticket?"

Sabrina smiled and handed over a ticket as Tim reappeared, frustrated and discouraged. Thus, Julia intervened, hoping to ease stress.

"How'd it go?"

He scowled.

"Piece of cake."

Tim stayed composed throughout, but Julia knew better.

"There's no need for sarcasm, Timothy. Everything will be fine."

"I blame you for this," he joked, gazing at his daughter.

Sabrina gave him a look.

"Dad, remember when you told me to tell you when you acted weird?"

"Uh-huh."

"You're doing it now."

He smiled, but Sabrina was right. Tim thought he had more time. But, at that moment, announcements blared.

"Flight 3280 outbound to Boston, now boarding at gate 37."

"I guess that's me."

Sabrina fought second thoughts, but knew new opportunities awaited.

"We're so proud of you," Julia said as tears streamed.

Tim embraced his daughter.

"Take care of yourself and call when you land."

"I'll miss you and I love you both so much!" she exclaimed while walking to the gate.

Tim held Julia close as Sabrina gave a subtle wave and passed through. Finally, they watched as the plane faded into the darkened sky, hopeful of a promising future.