The Dark Society

69

It wasn't surprising that Karen's coven had occupied the villa. Normally the girls wouldn't have been there, but Alex's pleas had convinced them to follow. Nevertheless, the decision created tension as Lyndsey and Tatum considered the potential consequences.

"What's happened to him?" Lyndsey questioned.

Tatum scowled. "Better yet, what's happened to you?"

Lyndsey retreated to the sofa. "I don't know. I haven't felt normal in months."

Tatum moved into the kitchen. "Sabrina knew this would happen."

Lyndsey paused. "Karen was right--she's a witch."

She ran her fingers through her hair. "Now you know."

Tatum didn't respond, considering everything that had transpired since Karen had alienated everyone and caused considerable distress. Instead, she messaged Alex while preparing for their return trip to America. Meanwhile, he had found himself on a murky hillside overlooking the resort. And though Alex knew he should leave, his curiosity held him captive.

"Where are you?" Tatum demanded over the phone.

"Outside the villa," he responded.

"What are you still doing there?"

"Waiting," he confirmed. "Don't worry though--everything's fine."

She groaned. "That doesn't sound convincing."

A long pause followed--a definitive sign that something mysterious was unfolding. Yet Alex maintained his steady gaze on the resort, forcing himself to stay calm.

"Is that it?" she wondered.

"No," he said quietly. "The coven's here. Together."

Tatum pleaded with him to leave, again and again, but Alex refused. Sadly, he was blinded by an obsession that caused more harm than good, captivated by Karen despite his lack of understanding.

It neared 8 AM, and though he wanted to stay, it wasn't easy. Then Karen appeared suddenly, seemingly more dark and sadistic. Lastly, she smiled at him before turning to leave, knowing he would follow.