The Dark Society

39

Alex watched Karen at the mirror as she prepared for the day. The past few weeks had brought many heartfelt conversations, and with newfound understanding, they had found refuge together in this peaceful estate on Osea Island.

"I'm surprised you remembered this place," he said.

"How could I forget?" she replied.

Karen's smile meant everything to him, and after years of uncertainty, they were finally together. Yet Luis still occupied a place in her heart--a reality Alex accepted. However, despite their complicated history, his unwavering presence had proven his devotion, something she now understood. Even so, the morning continued with their usual philosophical discussions.

"You seem preoccupied," he observed.

"Aren't you, with everything going on?" She looked at him intently.

"Should I be?"

He picked up a photograph of Trina, Jasmine, and Sabrina from the vanity while Karen remained focused and attentive.

"What's on your mind?" she asked.

"How can they be gone so long with no one knowing anything?"

Alex felt unsettled but tried to remain honest. He knew Trina and Jasmine well, so their prolonged absence troubled him. Karen, however, maintained her usual composure despite the circumstances.

"You're being melodramatic," she said.

He pulled back. "Maybe, but I'm worried about you."

She smiled. "Don't assume anything until we know more. Besides, we have more important matters to handle."

Alex was puzzled by Karen's detached response. Unfortunately, something was changing within her--a shift in priorities toward the synagogue and a desire for control that concerned him. From the start, protecting Karen's well-being had always been challenging, but Alex remained patient and supportive.

"Such as?" he asked.

Her eyes lifted, knowing more was at stake than their relationship alone. Ergo, she rarely spoke of the synagogue due to its complex implications, but Karen had always been a woman of few words.

"Don't worry," she said. "Everything will be fine."