The Dark Society

45

 Luis dreaded the incessant snowfall, but the frigid conditions didn't dampen his exhilaration. He'd spoken with Sabrina, and though the conversation was brief, everything went 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 surprised, knowing she and Tatum spoke often. But, Sabrina's expressions and tone indicated she knew more.

"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 appeared uneasy as expressions revealed an inner turmoil. Still, he focused on the intimacy of their relationship.

"I can't stop thinking about you."

"Me either."

Their sentiments felt genuine, as they often 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 remembered Tatum's confession and asked about Jennifer; regardless of 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 - 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'd 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. I haven't forgotten it."

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

Sabrina giggled.

"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.

"You will."