The Dark Society

26

 Sea Cliff is an affluent district. Deemed San Francisco's exclusive suburb, it's the current home of the Connelly family. John, fifty-five, owns and directs the Connelly Automotive Group. While his beloved wife, Cindy, fifty-two, holds a seat on the city council.

Life remained routine thus far, with one exception—Samantha Collins. An orphan, their daughter Jennifer befriended while attending the Esoteric Academy. (a traditional teaching seminary.) John and Cindy criticized Jennifer's involvement with occultism and the Saint Ann's mosque.

A community of gifted children instructed in magic by Elder Anna Copeland. Despite their concerns, an unusual attraction developed between Jennifer and Samantha. However, as students at the academy, same-sex unions didn't exist.

This is why they concealed their relationship. But when John and Cindy discovered the truth, Sam and Jennifer admitted everything. Shortly thereafter, Samantha began attending Florida University.

Thus, she and Jennifer became separated because of distance and obligations. Then, Jennifer started working for American Airlines and left the mosque. A decision fueling Samantha's escalating anger and resentment.

Moreover, enigmatic visions of an absent past persisted. During that period, graduation came and went, and Sam's goals became clear. Today, however, ample sunshine and pleasant temperatures graced the West Coast. An expected change after four years in a similar climate. As the two-story colonial came into view, Cindy was, as always, tending her gardens.

"The roses never looked better," Sam announced.

Startled, Cindy looked up.

"Samantha?"

"In the flesh."

They'd lived like family throughout the years, so each empathetic embrace felt natural. Cindy wasn't alone in her enthusiasm as the door burst open and John rushed forward. But amid the jubilation, one person was missing: Jennifer.

Sam escorted everyone inside, and everything appeared normal.

"You look beautiful," Cindy admitted, brushing Sam's cheek.

Sam and Jennifer shared distinct memories. But, to Sam's surprise, any traces of the past were missing. Thus, while she settled into a seat, suspicions escalated.

"It's wonderful to have you home," John said. "Florida seems to have agreed with you."

"Thank you. It did."

John and Cindy knew what Sam wanted and expected questions. Besides, they'd been apart for four years, and the urgency to revisit history was clear. Yet, knowing Sam's bloodline, they guarded their daughter's precise location.

"I assume Jen's still with American?" Sam asked.

Cindy hesitated, her gaze uncertain.

"Yes, but she's out of town at the moment."

Sam's senses sharpened.

"For work?"

John shifted.

"No, visiting a friend."

Sam studied their mannerisms. And though discrete, they implied secrecy.

"Why not stay for dinner?" he suggested. "I recall how much you loved country brisket."

"That sounds wonderful," she replied. "Would you mind if I freshened up?"

Cindy rose, gesturing toward the stairs.

"Not at all. You remember where everything is?"

Sam immediately spotted a plane ticket with the bold heading: "Cottonwood Falls, Kansas." Throughout dinner, emotions heightened as Sam's intentions became the focal point of each conversation.

"How bad is it?" John began.

Cindy shot him a warning look.

"Jonathan."

Sam leaned forward.

"It's alright."

"You're troubled," he continued. "Cindy and I sympathize, but we're worried."

Sam's expression hardened.

"Don't be. After all, you know why I'm here."

Cindy stared at her.

"We do, but it's been twenty years. Don't you think it's time to let go?"

"Could you?"

It's often a subject of debate, but Sam remained determined to reclaim her existence. Not only where Jennifer stood concerned, but also the missing memories.

"What do you intend to do?" John asked.

Sam's eyes shifted, her voice steady.

"Whatever I have to."