The Dark Society

81

It wasn't surprising that Julia loathed the dilemmas Sabrina's decisions had created, but she had no idea that Luis had come to Kansas and visited. In short, her daughter was acting as though nothing troubled her, so Julia felt it was necessary to tell her about Jennifer.

"I almost forgot..." she announced after entering Sabrina's room.

"If this is about Luis, I'm sorry."

Julia sighed. "No, it has nothing to do with that. But there's something else."

Her mother's subtle tone seized her attention. "What is it?"

Julia turned and retrieved a stuffed doll from the vanity. "I remember when you won this."

Sabrina stared. "You didn't come up here to play with my toys."

She replaced the keepsake and took her daughter's hands. "I spoke with Jennifer."

Sabrina looked shocked. "About?"

Despite the potential consequences, Julia decided to reveal Jennifer's intentions. At the same time, Sabrina's expressions shifted as such matters remained precarious.

"A lot of things."

Sabrina straightened. "Did she mention Samantha?"

Julia hesitated. "In a roundabout way."

Her daughter appeared uncomfortable. "I thought you understood, but your tone says otherwise. Did I miss something?"

Julia's manner changed. "No, but she knows things that will affect your relationship."

Staring into the mirror, Sabrina seemed annoyed. "I have a date. Could you make your point?"

Julia marveled at the uncaring attitude--not for the first time. It was clear Paul's influence had helped define Sabrina's character. On that premise, severing her bonds with the church was essential.

"She's returning to California."

Sabrina turned and stared. "Why? Has Sam come home?"

Julia glanced away. "How do you know about her?"

Sabrina looked away. "They've been together for years but grew apart while Samantha attended school in Florida."

"I see," Julia replied. "Given that, it might be wise to say goodbye."

Sabrina took a breath. "How much time?"

"Not long."

Sabrina again gazed into the mirror, knowing her connection with Jennifer was complicated and unpredictable. Nevertheless, she felt blindsided, and a familiar sense of resentment had returned. In light of that, she prepared for the night ahead amid thoughts of Hecate.

"Who are you?" she whispered while caressing the porcelain figurine.