The Dark Society

5

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

"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 aside, she smirked as her mother 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 had settled on a simple day of activities, hoping that Sabrina's last day home wouldn't be a solemn affair. Following a fulfilling breakfast, everyone savored an afternoon of trawling and boating--activities she'd loved since adolescence. Nevertheless, as five o'clock neared, reality settled in. After helping Tim with the boat, Sabrina took time to observe the glorious sunset.

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

His daughter slowly 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 depart Kansas City and arrive in Boston for a connecting flight to London. Though it would be her first time away, she felt excited by the opportunities her hard work had yielded. Still, she was apprehensive about leaving, despite the promise of a prosperous future.

Riding into Midtown that evening, Sabrina focused on taking pictures. As the downtown 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 often acknowledged her apprehension.

"Are you all right?"

Sabrina sat staring at several planes at the gate. "I'm fine."

Tim struggled with the luggage as his daughter observed the metropolis. Suddenly, Sabrina appeared momentarily pale and tired, though she quickly returned to normal.

"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 her ticket as Tim reappeared, looking frustrated and discouraged. Julia intervened, hoping to ease his stress.

"How'd it go?"

He scowled. "Piece of cake."

Tim had tried to stay 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 suddenly smiled, but Sabrina was right. Tim thought he had more time, but at that moment, the announcement blared.

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

"I guess that's me."

Sabrina briefly fought second thoughts, but she knew a promising future awaited her.

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

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, both hopeful for their daughter's promising future.