The Dark Society

29

 The evening brimmed with intrigue and speculation, though Tatum often worried about Sabrina. Therefore, following several unanswered calls, she ventured next door and started knocking.

Within seconds, entryways thrust open, and Sabrina stood staring. In silence, Tatum followed as she retreated inside, appearing sallow and ill. (A recurring nightmare she hoped not to see again).

Outside the city, Luis attired for the festival, not intent on attracting attention. But then again, there'd be only one chance to make a first impression.

All the more, he didn't want to overwhelm Sabrina or detour a potential meeting. Nevertheless, Luis finished dressing and strode downstairs, feeling resolute for the first time in months.

"You're late." Alex joked, completing a hearty handshake.

Retreating, Luis laughed.

"I'm right on time, but thanks anyway."

Following, Karen neared wearing a familiar form-fitting red dress. (Another attempt to promote her tan and shapely figure). Irregardless of how, Luis didn't seem enticed, despite a captivated expression. In the same spirit, she wanted attention, thus greeted him with a subtle yet seductive kiss.

"I've seen that look before..." she whispered, grinning. "You liked this dress, remember?"

For good measure, she also wore an identifiable scent that always attracted interest. Otherwise, the look in Luis' eyes confirmed what she already knew. And beside that, he didn't carry any ill will or hatred for her - since it's an argument that no longer held merit.

Collectively, Caroline and Jim smiled, observing the kids' interactions, though one individual was unmoved. For some time, Alex held affections for Karen and craved more than a rudimentary friendship.

Given this, he faced a dilemma, because Luis and Karen still loved one another. Thing was, even with mutual admiration, obsession influenced Karen's mood. Later that evening, the trip to Imperial included vast topics of discussion, but like always, Sabrina seemed distant.

"Why so quiet?" Lyndsey quizzed, gesturing.

More or less, Sabrina wanted to relish the evening and keep her departure secret. That's why, despite Tatum's need to know, she decided against telling her.

"I'm sorry, I don't mean to be."

"Try to relax anyway..." she suggested. "After all, it's a party."

Expectedly, Luis was a gentleman, allowing Karen to occupy the front seat, despite seductive glances and gestures. Other than that, he didn't mind considering their close friendship.

A short time later, Luis, Alex, and Karen encountered Dena, Sienna, and Lesley. Though surprisingly, Trina, Jasmine, Kyle, and Logan were conspicuously absent, so Karen stayed at Luis's side as she had when they dated.

Whatever the circumstances, he appeared focused, with a consistent and unwavering stare. As this takes place, Alex resolutely fixed, hopeful she and Luis keep the peace.

During which time, housemates interacted, but found it arduous to reach Sabrina. All the more obvious, Karen was mingling as much as anyone, so Tatum found Alex and made inquiries.

"What are you up to?" she requested, smirking.

Instantly, he noted the form-fitting black dress, accented by the two-inch heels.

"Nothing much, how about you?"

Staring into the crowd, Tatum giggled.

"Same, but what's up with Luis?"

"Isn't it obvious?"

Everything considered, it was an opportunity to socialize, since Karen was staying vigilant and guarding Luis. And though not romantically linked, she was, as usual, acting as such. Equally, there was a more important reason for attending - Sabrina.