The Dark Society

35

Tatum and Sabrina had grown closer since Sabrina left London, their frequent conversations strengthening their bond. Meanwhile, Tatum struggled to understand where things stood with Lyndsey. Initially, Lyndsey had been open to romance, but Tatum had pulled back after Sabrina's warnings.

On another note, Kyle and Logan had become inseparable from the sisterhood, and when friends tried to reach them, they were ignored, fueling speculation and unease. More importantly, the brothers no longer socialized, and were rarely seen without Lesley and Dena.

Alternatively, friends also tried contacting Trina and Jasmine, but unlike Kyle and Logan, the girls were known for being social, making their extended absence seem odd. All the same, it was mid-holiday break, so everyone assumed they'd gone home.

"I'm worried," Lyndsey said. "First Trina and Jasmine, then Kyle and Logan. I don't understand what's happening."

"There's more," Tatum replied. "And you should know sooner rather than later."

"What's going on?"

"Sabrina's not coming back."

"What do you mean?"

Tatum shifted uncomfortably.

"Trust me," she said. "It's for the best."

"That's it?"

Tatum hesitated, knowing this would hurt Lyndsey. Besides, she and Sabrina weren't close, but losing the friendship was still painful.

"I'm afraid so."

"I bet it has something to do with her and Luis."

"Karen hated her because of his interest," Tatum explained. "But there's another reason--Sabrina wasn't well, and being home is what's best for her."

They speculated for a while, but neither was good at keeping secrets or hiding the truth. Yet, the memories of Sabrina's physical and mental changes were still vivid, but Tatum kept her promise and said nothing more.

"Does Karen know?"

Tatum fidgeted.

"Not yet, unless Luis told her."

Tatum sat on edge as news reports about missing students flooded the airwaves. However, she remained alert, knowing Sabrina's brilliance and dangerous tendencies all too well.

Despite everything, Sabrina's advice had helped her overcome many fears. But now she faced an inevitable choice, thus Tatum spent many sleepless nights alone, searching through scripture for answers.

"Our last conversation was strange," Tatum said. "Sabrina told me everything."

Lyndsey's attention sharpened.

"What did she say?"

Tatum pulled her knees close.

"It wasn't what she said--it was what she didn't say."

Tatum was beginning to believe, but despite her growing feelings for Lyndsey, Sabrina meant more to her. Given that no one connected to Karen's coven could be trusted, so Tatum did the unthinkable and chose a side.

Lyndsey's face fell.

"Tatum, I need to know," she whispered. "You are coming back, aren't you?"

After a deep breath, Tatum found herself reluctant to answer.