Chapter 2

Cottonwood Falls, Kansas

On a sultry spring day, Tim and Julia Kole attended their daughter's high school graduation. At only 17, Sabrina is an avid enthusiast of Marketing and Accounting, while furthering passions for spirituality and occultism. Due to these interests, countless influential friendships developed while attending Chase County High School.

Most notably, a profound affinity with lifelong practitioner and known sorceress, Raina Henderson. Unsurprisingly, she too stood labeled an occultist, so it was academic they'd befriend one another. In the ensuing weeks, they'd meet Michelle and Marc Dyson, Kim Savage, Denise Hawthorne, and Rachelle Sullivan. Pupils of the Saint Anthony's synagogue with equal aptitudes and pursuits.

In time, the group began practicing together, while mastering the sacred oath aspiring students adhered to: the Wicca doctrine. On a different note, this graduating class would be the largest in the lore of the academy. Although, Tim loathed dressing up or wearing a suit, so Julia rendered a much-needed distraction.

"Where is she?" he quizzed, searching the crowd.

Promptly, she simpered.

"Be patient; there's a lot to do."

With success, Tim is an architect for a well-known developer, while Julia oversees the home and mentors Sabrina. Anonymously, she also retains mystical abilities, so he commonly shelters the family from outside influences. On another note, Sabrina had decided to attend college abroad, and as expected, her parents weren't thrilled. Over this, there were many heartfelt trade-offs about what compromise was appropriate. Pending that, they'd spend the day savoring their daughter's achievement.

"I thought we wouldn't see you until later." Julia implied as Sabrina arrived.

With pleasure, she twinkled as Tim took a picture. And though her parents could be oppressive, she loved seeing them elated. Not to mention, their contentment was a focal point of her resolve.

"You're going to embarrass me, aren't you?" Sabrina joked.

"Who me?" her mother returned, seemingly gratified.

Thereafter, Sabrina neared her father and adjusted his collar.

"Everything all right?"

"There's no need to worry; I'll be fine."

Unexpectedly, she cuddled.

"I hope you're proud."

Beaming, he peered into his daughters' dark eyes.

"You know I am."

Ensuingly, graduates ascended the echelon and accepted their degrees. Collectively, this is a time when families feel joyous and proud, though the day also heralded a period of upheaval and a precarious future. Considering a college education was a costly excursion many couldn't afford. In which case, Sabrina gaped at her diploma, wondering if she stood ordained for something more.

Whatever the case, following many heartfelt goodbyes and memorable photos; graduation ended. Later that evening, as Tim sat on the porch, Sabrina looked on with deep empathy. At long last, she was an adult, but in his eyes, would forever be his little girl. Barring this in mind, Sabrina thought subtlety was best, though as the passé springs whined, Tim didn't budge.

"Can we talk?" she pleaded, jostling the door back and forth.

Across the board, emotions were evident as his eyes appeared bloodshot and swollen. That being so, Sabrina occupied a seat, determined to soothe the torment. For some time, she'd suffered the afflictions of various inexplicable abilities. And though her father sought to empathize, he wasn't handling the transition well.

"I don't want you to go."

Gradually, she scoured her dark hair aside.

"If I stay, you'll never forgive yourself, and begrudge me for not seizing the opportunity."

"You'll be so far away..." he retaliated. "Alone in a foreign and diverse country."

Leisurely, Sabrina squeezed close as the mutuality they shared felt serene. However, despite many heartfelt sentiments, nothing facilitated their spirits. More importantly, she seemed panicked, knowing an uncertain future awaited. And this time, the risks were higher than a childish suspension or mediocre grade. Either way, leaving for college was a reality every parent faced. But, Sabrina was evolving, and due to her gifts, the world wouldn't be as accepting. For this purpose, they'd soon have to reach a point of acceptance.

"You've done everything asked of you..." she included. "I have no resentment, and neither should you."

Suddenly, Tim swiveled as Julia crowded the doorway, captivated by the bond between a father and daughter.

"I know you're there." Sabrina expressed, peeping.

"I'll always be." she echoed, stirring onto the porch.