The Dark Society

45

Luis dreaded the incessant snowfall, but the frigid conditions didn't dampen his exhilaration. He'd spoken with Sabrina at long last, and though their conversation was brief, everything had gone well. Meanwhile, he relaxed and sifted through photographs until her call came as promised.

"Hey there," she greeted, wrapped in her favorite Afghan blanket.

"I missed that smile."

She pulled the blanket closer around herself.

"I bet you did."

"A lot's happened."

Her eyes lifted to meet his through the screen.

"I know."

"I assume you know about Karen and Lyndsey?"

"Among other things."

Luis wasn't largely surprised, knowing she and Tatum spoke often, but Sabrina's expressions and tone indicated she knew more than she was letting on.

"Alex and Karen?"

"Uh-huh..." she murmured. "However, isn't that what you wanted?"

Luis hesitated.

"I'm happy for them, though that's not what matters right now."

"That doesn't sound like you."

Sabrina didn't seem entirely at ease since her changing expressions revealed an inner turmoil. Nevertheless, he focused on the intimacies of their relationship.

"I can't stop thinking about you."

"Me either."

Their sentiments felt genuine as they frequently recalled their final moments together.

"I remember that kiss."

Luis held up their picture from the airport.

"I can't believe you kept that."

He grinned.

"A reminder, hoping I'd see you again."

Sabrina's expression softened, then grew distant.

"You won't..." she admitted. "It's better that way."

Luis suddenly remembered Tatum's confession and decided to inquire about Jennifer, regardless of the repercussions.

"Who's Jennifer Brie?"

She winced, knowing Tatum had talked. Yet Sabrina wasn't furious, and now that he knew, they could finally discuss it.

"Someone I can't explain."

"Meaning?"

She cleared her throat.

"I don't know what's going on, but there's something between us..." she continued. "Something spiritual."

Luis shifted forward and clasped his hands together.

"Sabrina, I need to know."

"If I'm telling the truth?"

"Yes."

She paused again.

"The truth is, I don't have an answer."

Luis felt a pang of understanding. Though, she'd been struggling with significant personal changes, so he didn't push the issue, believing it would only upset her.

"I left when things got complicated..." she clarified. "It was affecting both of us, and you deserve better."

"Are you sure about that?"

"I'm not sure about anything--except how much I care about you..." she added. "And that kiss meant everything to me. I haven't forgotten it."

"Me either..." he answered. "Though I'm surprised I was bold enough to do it, seeing that I'm not usually that forward."

Sabrina giggled softly.

"It's all right; I forgive you..." she joked. "As for the rest, things are different now, and we should accept it."

He offered a small smile.

"If things could change, would you be open to it?"

Sabrina looked puzzled.

"I don't understand."

His smile widened slightly.

"You will."