Jennifer retreated to the Birdsong to await Sam's return. Though, following Anna's admission, she was nervous about seeing her. Meanwhile, after entering the suite, an envelope from The Research Medical Center caught attention. Sam's battle with the ascension was legendary, making such a correspondence disturbing.
Still, Jennifer cherished Sam's anonymity and embraced the virtue. It was two in the morning, and Samantha still hadn't arrived. Thus, Jennifer grew worried, knowing Sam's punctuality. As a rule, Sam shared details about medical appointments.
But, she withheld the results of this recent visit. One of many small betrayals causing tension between them. Sam kept secrets, but this time Jennifer couldn't walk away without knowing why.
Jennifer was considering returning to California despite Sam's objections. Besides, Jennifer wasn't religious, but Sam was changing and staying felt unnecessary. Barring this in mind, she leaned against the table, retrieved the envelope and opened it. Inside, pages detailing Sam's latest exam. Jennifer wasn't medically trained, but understood enough. So, reading the results, the diagnosis was clear.
"She's dying," she whispered, letting the papers fall to the floor.
Angry, Jennifer opened the door and found Samantha waiting.
"Going somewhere?"
Jennifer looked into Sam's emotionless eyes.
"I grew worried."
Sam reopened the door, took Jennifer's hand and returned inside. Jennifer felt terrified, anticipating Sam's reaction to the invasion of privacy.
"What do we have here?" Sam asked, collecting the scattered forms.
"Why didn't you tell me?"
Sam scowled.
"It wasn't necessary, and you know that."
Jennifer recoiled as Sam's answer rekindled her earlier fears.
"You're giving up?"
Sam smiled.
"No, but there are alternatives."
Clutching the papers, Sam walked to the window and parted the drapes.
"Aren't you curious about where I've been? Or, who I spoke with?"
Jennifer moved closer.
"The mortuary. Where you encountered Sabrina."
She and Sabrina had spoken at length. But, even despite Sabrina's pleas, Sam refused.
"Yes."
"What happened?"
"She asked me to come home--an offer I'm still considering," Sam answered. "But, there are things to handle first."
"Your father and Saint Anthony's."
"I need answers," Sam said. "Since Katherine's absent, Harold will have to do."
"What am I supposed to do?"
Sam stared at her.
"You and Anna want to protect me? Revitalize your practice."
Jennifer met her gaze.
"My involvement has limits, you know that. I can't impose on free will or influence the sect's decisions."
"Then why are you still here?" Sam challenged. "Especially after learning the truth."
Jennifer's anger flared again.
"Because despite everything, I love you."
Sam recoiled.
"You're a creature of magic, incapable of authentic human emotion."
"Don't say that!"
With their bond fading, Jennifer grew frustrated and yielded to Sam's will. From now on, Samantha wouldn't entertain blind emotions. Even with Harold's return to Saint Anthony's looming.
Sam was leaving for Saint Anthony's, and after many years, it was time. But, Jennifer knew Sam might not return, so before departing, she offered one final plea.
"I wish you wouldn't go!"
With a solemn look, Sam headed for the door.
"I have to. I'm sorry."
YOU ARE READING
The Dark Society
Mystery / ThrillerA powerful family of occultists unexpectedly disappear and for the next twenty years they live within society like normal people. However, as the eldest daughter reaches her 18th birthday the curse of a forgotten bloodline returns, along with the me...
