The Dark Society

17

 Sabrina's fixation on Luis grew with each subtle glance. Though a hidden motive became even more obvious. On top of that, like Alex minutes before, Tatum also noticed the continuous gestures.

"What the hell?" Tatum muttered.

"He's attractive," Sabrina admitted, facing forward. "Though his friend is handsome."

Meanwhile, Alex took a seat, excited about the recent reconnaissance mission.

"What did you find out?" Luis asked.

"The brunette is personable, but somewhat shy."

Luis leaned forward, gazing across the room with renewed interest.

"There's something more, isn't there?"

"Her name's Sabrina, and her friend goes by Tatum."

Luis beamed and relaxed against the chair. Sabrina—a name he'd remember. Meanwhile, they weren't the only ones taking notice. Because Karen and the Lady of Victories' elders were also in attendance.

"Who is she?" Karen questioned, her voice sharp with suspicion.

"I don't know," Sienna murmured, leaning forward, "but she's not one of them."

Sienna Quinn served as the formidable second-in-command within the sect. Often perceived as rebellious, her primary concern remained the coven's survival. Plus, she possessed an invaluable insight into spiritual gifts. Making it easy to perceive a witch's ethereal aura. On another note, the kinship with Dena Pierce ran deep. And because of shared philosophies, they bonded immediately.

However, Sienna's growing hostility toward Wiccan law corrupted the practice. Thus, Bishop Luen mentored Dena with a stern hand to counteract this approach. However, the appeasing nature of Sister Lesley Ashton often prevailed. The fiery redhead possessed an aptitude for witchcraft few understood. Moreover, she harbored passions for brutality when facing external threats.

"She has power," Lesley admitted.

Karen immediately turned to Dena, knowing she wouldn't rush to judgment. Whatever the case, Sabrina radiated strength with an undeniable essence.

"I'm worried," Dena murmured as gazes shifted toward the unsuspecting girl.

Karen adjusted and squinted across the room.

"Why?"

Dena cringed; her concern appeared obvious.

"She's a virtuous witch from an established bloodline."

Karen leaned back with a groan.

"Impossible, unless..." She trailed off, confusion clouding her features.

Karen appeared perplexed at every turn. Because Luis preferred redheads or women with sandy brown hair. But neither Tatum nor Sabrina fit the description. Still, Sabrina always attracted attention. Though American women often did among their English counterparts. That aside, she seemed most popular with Luis. An attraction that troubled Karen immensely.

"We have admirers," Tatum joked while gathering belongings.

Sabrina peered into the aisle, noting the lingering stares.

"I see that."

Upon leaving, the girls encountered several housemates returning from breakfast.

"Hey, Brie," Kyle called out.

Kyle and Logan always referred to Sabrina by the nickname "Brie". A moniker she adored and an identity she'd embraced. More than that, she loved the siblings and treasured their friendship.

"Hello, Kyle," she replied with a genuine smile.

Logan rolled his eyes, recognizing his brother's flirtatious behavior.

"Must you?"

Kyle embraced Sabrina.

"I told you, she's mine."

Sabrina extracted herself.

"You wish."

Tatum scowled at the display.

"Anyway, are we still hosting the reading tonight?"

Sabrina glanced at Tatum in confusion.

"Reading? When did this happen?"

Logan chuckled.

"I thought you knew."

"No, no one told me," Sabrina said, glaring at Tatum.

Lyndsey stepped forward and took Sabrina's hand.

"It's my fault," she confessed. "I wanted to keep it a surprise because we know how homesick you've been, so I hope you can forgive me."

Sabrina shrugged and giggled despite herself.

"I'll think about it."

Logan glanced at his watch and gestured toward the academic buildings.

"It's time for class."

Sabrina and Tatum headed toward the west area of campus, while Lyndsey departed for the east wing. After Luis and Alex entered the law complex. Though instead of upcoming classes, Luis remained fixated on Sabrina.

"Hey, are you all right?" Alex inquired, noting his friend's distraction.

Luis hesitated, but maintained his smile.

"I'm fine."

Sabrina's beauty and grace affected him, making Alex uneasy. Moreover, he recalled Luis's behavior after meeting Karen. Yet, with Sabrina, the attraction seemed even stronger. Alas, Alex didn't want to speculate, but his best friend appeared infatuated.

Forgetting Karen proved challenging enough. But Sabrina inspired an unexpected resurgence of romantic hope. So, any first impression needed to be nothing short of magical. Meanwhile, news of the evening's reading spread throughout social circles. An event Luis now felt compelled to attend.

Back in the lecture hall, Karen's jealousy burned. As the room emptied, she observed the crowd, feeling excluded and threatened. Regardless of whether instincts proved correct, Sabrina harbored dangerous secrets.

Karen needed to learn more. But she found herself at a disadvantage, uncertain where to begin. At that moment, she recalled Evelyn Gardens. A connection which until now remained ignored. Karen guided the shamanic revolution on campus since the start.

Sects adopted Wiccan teachings, while other notables objected. Trina Saint Claire and Jasmine Lloyd were atheists acting against the coven. Staying reclusive while Karen paraded the elders around campus.

"It seems the Bishop was right," Lesley whispered.

Karen's scowl deepened.

"First, find out everything you can about this girl. Then, see to it Trina and Jasmine see things our way."

"That won't be easy," Dena remarked.

"Obtaining absolute power never is," Karen replied.

"What about Luis?" Sienna questioned.

"Leave him to me," Karen retorted. "I'll handle it myself."

Everyone departed for the dormitory to prepare for the evening's reading. Though Luis was attending and Karen saw an opportunity to reclaim the past.