The Dark Society

66

Jennifer's connection to the Koles had been marred by controversy since she had never abided by their cult's folklore, myths, or legends. Because of this, she felt vilified when she entered the Birdsong restaurant that evening.

The setting was expectedly unusual, though one individual--a lone woman--appeared particularly out of place. Nevertheless, Jennifer eased into a seat and allowed such disparities to fade into the background.

The testimonies about that defining night seventeen years prior remained missing, as everyone knew. Ergo, Jennifer found herself recalling once again the similarities between the Kole and Morgan ancestries.

After dinner, Jennifer gathered her personal items and made arrangements for the night. However, as she did so, an inescapable fear erupted when the lone woman suddenly stood before her, staring.

"Samantha..." she whispered.

Sam was cold and emotionless, bearing no resemblance to the person Jennifer once knew. Yet true to form--never one for subtlety--Sam's stride remained steady as she suddenly turned and left. Such aloof candidness was a symptom of the ascension, making it clear she was changing. More importantly, now that she and Jennifer had reunited, it was also apparent that apathy was devouring Sam's soul.

Later that night, Jennifer contemplated how neither Sam nor Sabrina could escape their fate. All the same, Sam's arrival had changed everything, and her rejection left Jennifer feeling shattered. Even still, reuniting Sam with Sabrina might provide answers, yet it would be a union shadowed by the ghosts of Harold and Katherine.

Eventually, Jennifer stepped onto the patio, aching to forget everything. Above all, she yearned to feel normal again and would consider anything that offered peace.

Standing there, she stared into the darkened sky, pondering possible solutions. She had been caring and merciful from the start, but now Jennifer prayed for absolution, knowing she too had harbored secrets and concealed identities.