The Dark Society

29

The evening brimmed with intrigue and speculation, but Tatum worried about Sabrina. So, after several unanswered calls, she ventured next door and knocked. The door opened within seconds, and Sabrina stood staring. But, after retreating inside, she again appeared sallow and ill. Tatum followed silently--reliving a recurring nightmare she'd hoped never to see again.

Meanwhile, outside the city, Luis dressed for the festival. He wasn't trying to attract attention, but there would be only one chance to make a first impression. Moreover, he didn't want to overwhelm Sabrina or jeopardize a potential meeting. Thus, Luis finished dressing and walked downstairs, feeling resolute for the first time in months.

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

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

Karen approached wearing a familiar form-fitting red dress--another attempt to showcase her tan and shapely figure. Yet, despite a captivated expression, Luis didn't seem enticed knowing that she wanted attention. Nevertheless, she greeted him with a subtle yet seductive kiss.

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

Karen wore her signature scent, knowing it usually attracted his interest, but the look in Luis's eyes confirmed what she already suspected. After all, he didn't carry ill will toward her, and their old arguments no longer mattered.

Meanwhile, Caroline and Jim smiled while watching the interactions, though Alex remained unmoved. He'd had feelings for Karen for some time and wanted more than friendship. This created a dilemma since Luis and Karen still loved each other. However, Karen's blind obsession often influenced her moods, despite their mutual admiration.

Later that evening, during the trip to Imperial, conversation flowed freely, but Sabrina seemed distant as always.

"Why so quiet?" Lyndsey asked.

Sabrina wanted to enjoy the evening and keep her departure secret, but despite Tatum's need to know, she'd decided against telling her.

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

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

Luis acted the gentleman, allowing Karen the front seat despite her seductive glances. Along the same line, he didn't object, considering their close friendship.

Shortly after, Luis, Alex, and Karen encountered Dena, Sienna, and Lesley. Surprisingly, Trina, Jasmine, Kyle, and Logan were absent, so Karen stayed at Luis's side as she had when they dated.

Luis appeared focused, his stare consistent and unwavering while Alex watched hopefully, wanting Luis and Karen to keep the peace.

The group mingled for some time, but reaching Sabrina proved difficult. All the same, Tatum found Alex to make inquiries.

"What are you up to?" she asked.

He immediately noticed her form-fitting black dress and two-inch heels.

"Nothing much. How about you?"

Tatum giggled, scanning the crowd. "Same, but what's up with Luis?"

"Isn't it obvious?"

This was the perfect opportunity to socialize, considering Karen was vigilantly guarding Luis. Though no longer romantically linked, she acted as if they still were. But she had a more important reason for attending--Sabrina.