Chapter 26

Sea Cliff is an eloquent district deemed San Francisco's most affluent suburb, and the current home of the Connelly family. John, at the age of fifty-five, owns and directs the Connelly Automotive Group. While his beloved wife Cindy, at the age of fifty-two, retains a seat within the city council.

Thus far, life had been fairly routine, with one exception - Samantha Collins. An unknown orphan their daughter, Jennifer, befriended while attending a traditional teaching seminary: the Esoteric Academies. In the beginning, John and Cindy criticized occultism, together with Jennifer's loyalty to the Saint Ann's mosque: a community of gifted children instructed in magic by sister Anna Copeland.

While this occurs, an unusual attraction promptly developed between Jennifer and Samantha. Even though, as scholars, same-sex unions weren't permitted. This is why they'd chosen to conceal the relationship away from Anna and their peers. Regardless of how, John and Cindy ultimately discovered the connection, but due to an unreserved openness, a unique and enduring trust arose.

Shortly thereafter, Samantha accepted an offer to attend Florida University. And as such, she and Jennifer remained separated, due to distance and obligation. It follows that Jennifer started working for American Airlines, and erroneously departed the mosque. A decision that prompted Samantha's anger and resentment.

Over that period, enigmatic visions of an absent past persisted, so as graduation came and went, Sam's goals stood clear. Today, however, ample sunshine and pleasant temperatures fortified the west coast. An expected coincidence, following four years in a similar setting. And as the two-story colonial appeared, Cindy was like always sprucing the gardens.

"The roses never looked better." Sam announced, advancing.

Startled, Cindy stood.

"Samantha?"

"In the flesh."

Throughout life, they were deemed family, so while sharing an empathetic embrace, emotions felt natural. Although, Cindy wasn't alone in her enthusiasm as the door thrust open, and John rushed forth. But amidst the jubilation, one person stood missing - Jennifer. Following this, Sam escorted everyone inside, and at first glance, despite subtle changes, everything seemed the same.

"You look beautiful." Cindy admitted, brushing Sam's cheek.

For their years, Sam and Jennifer shared many distinct memories. But, to Sam's surprise, any traces of their past nowadays appeared nonexistent. And yet, after settling into a seat, all too familiar sensations returned.

"It's wonderful to have you home..." John conveyed. "Not to mention, it seems Florida was agreeable."

"Thank you, and it was."

Like usual, John and Cindy knew what Sam wanted and expected questions. Besides, they'd been apart for four years, so the urgency to rediscover the past was evident. Not least of all, witchery prevailed in the blood, so they opted to guard their daughter's precise location.

"I assume Jen is still with American?" Sam wondered, gesturing.

Anxiously, Cindy stalled, shaping a hesitant gaze.

"Uh, yes, but at the moment, she's out of town."

As one would expect, Sam's senses peaked.

"Because of work?"

Shifting, John groaned.

"No, visiting a friend."

Time and again, Sam assessed both demeanors, and though discreet, the secrecy was apparent.

"Why not stay for dinner?" he suggested. "I recall how much you loved country brisket."

"That sounds terrific..." she stated. "Would you mind if I freshened up?"

Cindy stood, motioning.

"Not at all; you remember where everything is?"

Unconsciously, Sam immediately spotted the bold heading on a recent plane ticket, which read -- "Cottonwood Falls, Kansas." Throughout dinner, emotions intensified as Sam's well-being became a significant point of interest.

"How bad is it?" John began, settling.

Right away, Cindy eyeballed and squinted.

"Jonathan."

In doing so, Sam pitched forth.

"It's alright."

"You're troubled..." he added. "And though Cindy and I sympathize, we're worried."

Hearing that, Sam made a face.

"Don't be..." she insisted. "After all, you know I'd never hurt Jennifer."

That said, Cindy ogled.

"We do..." she raved. "But, it's been twenty years, so don't you think it's time to let go?"

"Could you?"

Time and again, it was a topic of discussion, but nonetheless, Sam sounded determined to fortify her existence. Not only where Jennifer stood concerned, but also regarding the missing memories.

"What do you intend to do?" John quizzed.

Without haste, Sam's eyes shifted.

"Whatever I have too."