The Dark Society

48

 Life remained blissful as Luis and Sabrina's bond flourished. As one might expect, they spoke daily, joking about the kiss that'd changed their lives. But beyond the humor, it's how Sabrina made him feel and the power she possessed. Luis had wealth, prestige and influence, but that hadn't won her heart. Yet, despite their mutual adoration, lingering feelings for Karen remained a complication.

Gazing at the clock as it neared 5 AM on a balmy Saturday. Luis felt fatigued following another lengthy conversation with Sabrina. She'd confessed many feelings, but remained guarded about others. Considering this, his mind raced with possibilities, from the probable to the absurd.

Hearing movement from the kitchen, Luis dressed and went downstairs. He'd hinted at a surprise to Sabrina the night before. And despite her persistent inquiries, he'd revealed nothing. Still, they wouldn't speak again until after church service, so he needed to finish his plans.

"You're up early," Jim greeted him, moving into the living room.

Luis immediately noticed his mother's knowing grin when he entered the kitchen.

"I hope you slept," she said.

"Not much," he replied, pouring coffee. "Though I was hoping to chat with you and Dad."

"Should I guess?" she asked, following him into the living room.

His father looked up from his paper.

"I'm getting ganged up on, aren't I?"

Caroline placed a hand on Luis's shoulder.

"That's your cue."

Luis held an anxious expression--a look he often displayed. Yet after the latest conversation with Sabrina, everything changed.

"I know that look," Jim began.

His mother blushed.

"Sabrina?"

Luis's smile confirmed what words couldn't. But, even with a positive outlook, Jim remained reserved.

"Something's brewing in your mind. Let's hear it."

Luis savored the moment because his father didn't entertain such conversations often. Plus, Jim wasn't known to renegotiate, so Luis recognized this rare opportunity.

"I have to go to her," he whispered.

Jim glanced at Caroline, grasping the seriousness of the moment.

"Why?"

"I love her. Isn't that enough?"

His father frowned.

"She asked you to stay away."

"Yes."

Jim rose and walked to the window.

"Are you going to defy her wishes?"

"I have to."

"It's not wise."

Caroline joined her husband at the window.

"If he doesn't try, he'll regret it."

Jim nodded.

"I trust your judgment, but if she rejects you, you must let go."

"I know it'll work," Luis insisted.

"I guess you have to do this?" Jim asked.

"I do."

His mother gasped.

"I remember how your father felt, so if Sabrina means that much, follow your heart."

Luis grinned.

"Thank you."

Jim sighed.

"You're not going alone."

Luis looked surprised.

"Are you sure?"

"Besides, it's time we had a holiday," Jim added as Caroline nodded.

Luis was overcome by their support and willingness to share the burden. Besides, it's what they'd done since the beginning, so he expected nothing less.

"I don't know what to say," Luis remarked.

Caroline embraced him.

"Go make arrangements."