The Dark Society

42

Veneers of pristine powder blanketed the countryside between Cottonwood Falls and Lawrence. Yet, despite the scenic commute, Sabrina arrived on campus nervous about registering. She'd toured Lawrence's suburbs countless times, but the inner city felt unfamiliar without her usual sense of place.

"Good morning, how can I help you?" the administrator greeted her.

Sabrina's face brightened with a warm smile.

"Good morning," she replied, handing over her papers. "I'm Sabrina Kole, transferring from Imperial."

The clerk quickly accepted the transcripts.

"Welcome to Kansas University."

A gentleman seated nearby overheard and quickly stood, approaching them.

"May I see her papers?"

Sabrina watched as he studied her transcripts, but noticing her unease, he made eye contact.

"You're a Marketing major?"

She nodded politely.

"Yes."

"I'm Professor York--Patrick York," he said. "It looks like you'll be in my class."

Sabrina appeared nervous as Patrick returned her documents.

"Ms. Kole," he began, "you're starting late, but I'll give you a few days to adjust."

Sabrina smiled and placed the papers in her leather briefcase.

"That would be perfect. Thank you."

Patrick followed her curiously.

"I'm surprised you transferred, given Imperial's reputation."

Sabrina's expression guarded.

"It's a long story, but I'm happier here."

Patrick nodded.

"If your grades are any indication of your capabilities, you'll do well."

"Thank you. I'll see you in class, Professor."

York watched as Sabrina crossed the courtyard. By and large, she was seemingly personable and well-mannered, but something felt elusive about her.

After reviewing her transcripts again, he couldn't find a clear reason for such a transfer. Soon after, she entered the UBC J Café among a crowd of undergraduates.

"What a beautiful place," she thought, settling by a front window.

Sabrina admired the café's subtle charms while savoring an espresso, but unexpectedly her phone buzzed. She hadn't spoken to Tatum in some time, so when the messages mentioned recent events, they caught her attention.

Afterward, she pondered Karen and Lyndsey's involvement, Kyle and Logan's isolation, and Trina and Jasmine's extended absence. Most importantly, she thought of Luis and her eagerness to see him again.

There was also Jennifer and her evasive behavior since returning to San Francisco. However, when a familiar voice called from across the café, her anxieties spiked.

"Sabrina?"

She looked up, startled.

"Michelle?"

A face she thought long forgotten appeared before her.

"It's been a while."

Sabrina stood and offered an embrace.

"You look good, but different."

Michelle settled into a seat.

"You're back from Europe?"

Sabrina ran her fingers through her hair.

"How did you know?"

"News travels fast," Michelle replied, "especially when you disappeared after graduation."

Sabrina paused.

"I thought it was the right decision," she explained. "But it wasn't what I'd hoped for."

Her responses were straightforward and genuine, though her expressions suggested she was still holding something back.

"Are you home for good?"

Sabrina leaned forward.

"Yes," she answered, "though I'm still adjusting."

Michelle had embraced her affiliation with Saint Anthony's--she was dressed in black with distinctive accessories.

"I'm staring," Sabrina admitted, "but I can't believe how much you've changed."

Michelle laughed.

"You're not the first to say that. So, do you still attend church?"

"I haven't in some time."

Michelle sensed Sabrina's discomfort.

"Then perhaps it's time to return to communion."

Sabrina remembered her sacramental ties to Saint Anthony's, and despite not visiting in years, her passion for the faith remained strong.

"We'll see."

Michelle felt encouraged, though she knew Julia would oppose the invitation. With that in mind, the likelihood of Sabrina's return seemed slim, but Michelle appeared determined to make it happen.

"I thought you should know," she said, "the coven is still together."

Sabrina perked up.

"Rachelle, Denise, Kim, and Raina?"

Michelle smiled.

"Yes, and I'm sure they'd love to see you."

Later, after taking a few photos and exchanging contact information, Michelle left. Favorably, everything felt renewed, though Sabrina questioned the motives behind the encounter. Regardless, she and Michelle had rekindled a forgotten friendship, and Sabrina headed home feeling optimistic about the future.