Stephen and Diana were ecstatic that Alex had avoided the latest school scandal, but like their son, they felt devastated to learn of Karen's ambitions. Over the years, they'd been the voice of reason, but this time she'd acted on her own.
Diana had consulted Jessica while Alex tried to mediate between Karen and Luis. His best friends weren't speaking over what seemed like frivolous reasons, and the strain of playing peacemaker was becoming exhausting. This was why he believed that attending the winter festival together would help settle the tension.
"How's she doing?" Diana asked, turning to Alex.
"Better than before."
Jessica and Jordan had taken an impulsive holiday to Wales several days earlier, so Karen had made an impromptu visit.
"We have to be supportive," Stephen said.
Alex watched as his mother bustled around the kitchen.
"Are you going to spoon-feed her too?"
His father looked up sharply, his expression stern.
"We understand how you feel."
"Good morning!" Karen announced as she entered the kitchen.
"You seem cheerful," Diana observed.
"Of course I am."
Diana set a cup on a coaster and touched Karen's shoulder gently.
"Be careful; it's hot."
Karen beamed.
"Thank you--you're always so considerate."
Karen glanced at Alex while sipping her coffee.
"Looking forward to the festival?"
He shrugged.
"I guess."
His father spoke up again.
"It's a big event, so enjoy it."
Alex looked at Karen.
"I hope it's better than those events in Birmingham last year."
She grinned.
"Then stay home if it doesn't interest you."
Alex scowled and retreated to the bathroom.
"Did I say something wrong?" Karen asked, looking around uncertainly.
Stephen sighed, wanting to change the subject.
"Did Alex mention anything to you?"
Karen looked confused.
"About what?"
"Stephen..." Diana interrupted while folding a dish towel. "Let Alex tell her."
Alex returned, clearly excited to share his news.
"Luis is chaperoning."
Karen tensed, sliding deeper into her seat.
"I suspected as much..." she admitted. "But I'm looking forward to it."
YOU ARE READING
The Dark Society
Misterio / SuspensoA powerful family of occultists unexpectedly disappear and for the next twenty years they live within society like normal people. However, as the eldest daughter reaches her 18th birthday the curse of a forgotten bloodline returns, along with the me...
