The Dark Society

68

For some time, Julia sat staring into a twilight void of moon or stars. Expectedly, thoughts dwelt on Sabrina, since she willingly heeded Paul's counsel, and nurtured the connection to Saint Anthony's. For it, resentment grew, and she, like Katherine previously, resolved to end the corrosive influence. As well, she recalled the pain of Sabrina's deception and Jennifer's link to Samantha. While doing so, Tim joined her, and together, they deliberated the potential consequences.

"Checking up on me?" she asked, shifting.

Looming, Tim grinned.

"No, I grew lonely."

Smirking, she giggled.

"You were never a good liar."

Lovingly, he hunkered close and seized a hand.

"I've never seen you like this."

Groaning, she peered into the skies.

"I know, but despite our efforts, it's happening."

"How'd something simple become so convoluted?"

Shrugging, she glanced.

"I wish I knew."

"What happens now?"

"Everything we feared most."

"Sabrina's ascending, and exhibiting traits."

Nodding, Julia agreed.

"As expected."

Again, he nestled.

"It'll be worse if you say nothing..." Tim elaborated. "Besides, Sabrina deserves the truth, no matter how absurd."

Instantly, Julia recoiled.

"Tim, what if after all these years, it's Samantha, and she's found Sabrina?"

Lamenting, he glared.

"You expect she won't...?" he replied. "Nevertheless, we have to believe she'll do what's right -- because Anna does."

Turning, Julia gestured.

"I hope you're right, because Sabrina's adapting."

"Do you think she'll convert?"

In time, she settled.

"I don't know, but she's already bonded with the coven..." she answered. "Plus, with Jennifer's connection to Sam, who knows?"

"Then, you've spoken with Jennifer?"

Gradually, Julia pondered.

"Earlier today..." she returned. "And, I'm convinced finding Sabrina on that plane wasn't a coincidence."

"You don't trust her?"

"At this point, I trust no one..." she professed. "After all, she has an interest in Sabrina and knows about Samantha."

"There's no proof of a connection."

Angered, Julia exposed her wrist.

"Only my bloodline has this mark, and she recognized it."

"Jennifer's an emissary?"

"With Samantha involved, it's plausible."

"You sound certain."

Slowly, Julia began to pace

"Tim, Jennifer knows."

"But, Katherine took every precaution."

"Like Anna, she's a day witch..." she explained. "An appointed mediator for Samantha, and Sabrina."

"And so, you've sensed Samantha's presence?"

Anxious, Julia groaned.

"She's near; I can feel it..." she conceded. "Energies are strong and undeniable."

Again, Tim nuzzled.

"In that case, we should prepare."

"Yes..." she announced. "Because it's only a matter of time."