Society Girls: Jenysis (6 page)

W
ayne

Dinner passes by in a blur of Jeny’s shrimp, stolen kisses between bites of everything, and conversation that skates all around the real reason everyone is here. My close friends are trying hard to pretend everything is normal, while the others who work for the Society women are looking at me like they think they can somehow figure me out. I’m a pretty open book, but it’s still unnerving.

“So, who am I talking to first?” I ask, throwing it right out there.

An uncomfortable silence starts to descend, but Scott Griffin breaks it. “I’ll go first. I want to get back to Yas and the kids.”

“Of course,” I tell him, nodding. His kids both have strep throat, and Yasmin stayed home to take care of them. “Let’s go into the library.”

Six people join us, including Jeny’s friends, Sierra and Rhieve. We get settled in on the chairs and couches, and after I agree to have the conversation taped so they don’t miss anything, Scott gets us started.

“You need to know that the security footage from the hotel is damaged. Ainsley and I are both working on it, and we’re sharing that part of things, because we both need it, but right now, we have nothing.”

“Isn’t that a little suspicious?” I ask.

“More than a little, and the police have got to be investigating whether you did it somehow.”

“Me? I couldn’t hack into my own computer, let alone a hotel security system.”

“No, but you have the money to hire someone. I don’t believe you did, but they have to be looking.”

“Because Reina’s looking.”

“Yeah. I mean, they haven’t come out and said it, but it’s common sense. We can’t worry about them, though.”

“I’m not. Worried, I mean. I know I didn’t do this.”

“I know you didn’t, too, but we can’t just rest on that knowledge. The burden of proof may technically be on the prosecution, but it’s your life on the line.”

“I’ll do whatever I can to help you.”

Scott nods, pleased with my answer. “Let’s start with your timeline for the night.”

“Okay, well we had rehearsal earlier in the day. After that, the guys and I split up. Jeny was with Darcy in L.A., attending a charity fashion show as a representative of her country, so I headed to the hotel while Kace went home, and Brett went to be with Kevin. I wasn’t really tired, so I decided to check out one of the bars.”

“That’s where you saw the victim?”

“Yes. She was at the bar when I walked in, and there was just something off about her. She called me over for a picture, and I did it, but I had to pretty much hold her up. I spoke to the bartender, and told him she needed to be cut off, and he said he’d keep an eye out for her. I stayed a little longer, but then it was time for me to Skype with Jeny, so I went upstairs.”

“Was Sonia still in the bar?”

“Yeah. I saw her before I got mobbed outside the elevators. Security came to rescue me, but I’d already lost my favorite hat by then.”

“Were you on with Jen the rest of the night?”

“No. About an hour, but then we said goodnight.” I’m not going to tell them what we did during that hour unless I have to, and right now I don’t think I have to.

“Did you go to sleep?”

I shake my head. “I was hungry, and I didn’t feel like room service. I ran down to the 24-hour café, and had some late night breakfast. I got noticed, so I ate pretty fast, and then looked into the bar to make sure the girl wasn’t still drinking, before going back to my room. Then, I went to sleep.”

“Wait, you went back to check on her?” Sierra asks. “Really?”

“I told you she didn’t seem okay. I thought I would call her a cab or something if I saw her, but she wasn’t there.”

“But other people saw you?” Rhieve asks.

“Maybe, but I kind of kept to the shadows in the doorway. I didn’t really want to be recognized again.”

“Did you stop anywhere else? A slot machine, the tables, anywhere?” Scott asks me.

“No. I just wanted to get upstairs and sleep.”

“I’m guessing since you haven’t mentioned times, you don’t remember them.”

“Not really. I mean, I know I Skyped with Jeny at 11, but that’s it.”

“Sonia was raped between one and three, as best they can tell.”

“And I have no alibi.”

“We’re going to get that security footage.”

He doesn’t say the other words, but we all know them. We need that footage. The forensics won’t come back with any of my DNA, but with evidence of condoms being used, they can say I took part, even if it’s not my semen on her body. I didn’t rape anyone, but circumstantial evidence has convicted lots of people, and I’m starting to get even more worried that I’ll be one of them.

* * *

J
enysis

I know Wayne needs to complete these interviews on his own, but I wish I was there, holding his hand and showing my support. E is doing a valiant effort of keeping me distracted by talking about horses and polo, but I glance at the hallway leading to the library every few seconds.

“Scott’s the best at what he does.”

I smile at the boy before me. “I know. I’m glad he’s on our side. Ainsley is amazing, too, but having Scott with us makes me feel better about things.”

“You don’t think Wayne did it, do you?”

“Not at all. Not even for a second when the police came to arrest him. People could say I’m biased, because I love him, but I know him and his heart. He couldn’t hurt a woman. Or a man, really. I’ve seen him walk away when he’s being baited, when he could stay and fight. He’s definitely a lover, and not a fighter.”

“I don’t think he did it, either. Mama told me rape is about power, and Wayne isn’t like that. People always notice him if we’re hanging out, but he’s never mean, and he doesn’t try to get the attention. Some of the people at school think he did it, though. Mama says I can stand up for him, but I can’t fight, either.”

“He wouldn’t want you to, although he’d be happy to know you believe in him.”

“I’ll tell him.” He looks uncomfortable for a minute, and then looks me in the eye. “You know I like you a lot, Jen. I have to ask you something, though.”

“Go ahead.”

“You’re not going to join in on shaming that woman, are you?”

“What are you talking about? Sonia? Who’s shaming her? And no, I would never do that.”

“Wayne’s ‘fans’ are saying stuff. It’s pretty bad.”

I pull out my phone, and look. I’d been avoiding social media, because I was afraid I’d see someone attacking Wayne, and not be able to control my response. But what I’m seeing is worse than I could’ve imagined—and it’s not directed at Wayne, but at Sonia. His so-called fans are tearing her to pieces.

“I have to tell him. Thanks, E. I’ll see you for riding tomorrow, right?”

“I’ll be there.”

I kiss him on the cheek, and hurry down the hall. The door to the library opens as I approach, and Scott steps out. “Jen, is something wrong.”

“Yes. I need to see Wayne.”

“We just finished.”

I step to the side to let everyone file out, and then I enter the room, Scott on my heels. Wayne is talking to Sierra and Rhieve, but when he sees me, he hurries over. “What’s wrong?”

“They’re attacking her.”

“Her? Sonia? Who’s attacking her? The media?”

“Yes, and maybe the media has said things, but it’s your fans I’m more worried about.”

“Show me.”

He slumps in a nearby chair after looking at the posts, and tweets. “I know they just want to support you.”

“This isn’t supporting me. I would never ask them for this. I don’t want this, Jeny. I can’t even wrap my head around girls and women saying those things about another woman.”

“I can’t, either.”

“I need to make a statement.”

“Do you want to talk to Alesha first?”

“No. I want to see Camari. I need her to set something up for me. Right now. This can’t wait.”

“I’ll call her.”

He pulls me onto his lap as I make the call. I hold his hand with my free one as he buries his face in my neck. He doesn’t say anything, or do anything at first. He just holds me tight, and breathes.

“I hate this, Jeny girl. I hate all of it. Why is this happening to me?”

“I don’t know, but we’re going to find out. I promise.”

“Thank you for believing in me.”

“Always.”

W
ayne

“We should talk about this,” Alesha tells me as Jenysis and I walk out of our bedroom. I’m not a suit and tie guy, but I changed out of my swim trunks and into jeans and a t-shirt for the press conference Camari set up. I need everyone to know I’m serious about what I’m going to say.

I grip Jeny’s hand tight as we walk to the front door. “Nothing to talk about. I won’t let this go on.”

“You can’t defend that woman without looking guilty.”

“Sonia. Her name is Sonia. Don’t forget it.”

“I didn’t forget it, but listen Wayne. Your life is on the line here.”

“So is hers. What if she does something because of how vicious people are being? She doesn’t deserve this.”

“I know she doesn’t,” she tells me with a sigh. “I feel for her, I do, but we haven’t even chosen a jury yet. For you to go out and do whatever you’re going to do…without even talking to me…it just might look bad for you.”

“I’m not talking to you about what I’m saying, because it’s all me. I don’t want words from anyone else. I have to say these things. Just me. I couldn’t live with myself if I didn’t speak up.”

“I get that, but can you give me an idea about what you’re going to say? Just an idea?”

“I’m going to tell them to leave her alone.”

I turn Jeny so that she’s got her back against the wall next to the door. Like I said, this has got to be all me, but I want to know she’s right there as I make my statement. It may come out as more of a plea, but whatever it takes to get them all to listen.

“Are you ready?” Camari asks me.

“Yes,” I tell her, opening the door.

The flashbulbs practically blind me from the other side. I can’t leave the house, so I’ll be standing in the doorway to speak. The reporters have been told that I won’t be answering questions, but I know they’ll try to ask anyway. Closing the door on them may not be tactful, but it’s a safety net I have no trouble using if need be.

“Thanks for coming out here on such short notice. I have some things to say, and they couldn’t wait,” I take a deep breath before continuing. “I saw some things on social media this evening that are greatly disturbing to me. People who are calling themselves fans of mine are attacking Sonia Cordova. I am asking you all to stop. This woman is a victim, and she does not need to be further victimized by those who have never met her. She did nothing wrong, and I can’t be silent while she is called names, and attacked. I’ve seen posts where people have said they know I couldn’t have done this, but really they don’t know. I may be a public figure, but the majority of the people saying they ‘know me’ have never even met me. They don’t know me. I know I didn’t do this, but they don’t. I appreciate that they want to believe in me, but not at the expense of an innocent woman. I am asking everyone to please leave Sonia Cordova alone. As I said, she doesn’t deserve this. If people are truly my fans, they’ll listen to what I’ve just said. You can support me without tearing her apart. Again, I love you all, but I won’t tolerate these kind of attacks. If they don’t stop, I will. I’ll leave social media completely, and do no more meet and greets, or fan events. That’s career suicide, but I’d rather have no career than have irreparable damage caused to another human being because of me. Thank you.”

I turn and walk back inside, closing the door on the questions, and the camera flashes. Jeny wraps her arms around me. “That was brilliant. I’m so proud of you.”

“I meant it,” I say, looking up to see Kace and Brett in the hallway.

“We’re behind you,” Kace says.

“It’s all or nothing. We’ve started over once already, and we can do it again. I’m not worried about losing anything,” Brett tells me.

“I don’t know what I’d do without you guys. Or you, Jeny girl. Thank you all.”

“Are you up for more interviews, or would you rather wait until tomorrow?” Audrey asks.

“Let’s get them over with tonight. I want you all to have everything you need, so you can clear my name as fast as possible.”

I want this to die down for me, but also for Sonia, too. I will gladly give up my career if it means she won’t have to deal with attacks, and threats. I can’t even fathom why people think it’s okay to hide behind their computer screens and vilify people. Some people deserve it—rapists deserve it. A woman who is the victim of a violent crime does not.

* * *

J
enysis

“Will you stay with me for the rest of these?” Wayne asks me as we walk down the hall.

“As long as no one else minds, I’d love to.”

“I don’t care if they mind.”

“Everyone is doing what’s best to help you.”

“I know, but I need you with me.”

“Then I’ll be there.”

We enter the room, and sit next to each other on one of the couches. “I need Jeny with me.”

“Okay,” Audrey says.

Well, that was easier than I thought it would be. I know things are going on that I’m not privy to, because they don’t want Wayne to know everything that’s going on just yet. I don’t pry, because I wouldn’t want to have to keep things from him. I don’t even know if I could.

“We’d like to take some samples from you,” my friend, Kalila, tells him. She’s a scientist like Audrey, although she’s a little more reserved than our fiery Latina mentor.

“I did that at the police station, but you can have whatever you want from me.”

“We just want to have our own samples, so we can double check them ourselves. Plus, we can do it faster,” Audrey tells him.

“How will you match the samples? The police won’t give them to you, will they?”

“No. They won’t give them to us, but Darcy has her ways. It’s best I don’t tell you any more than that.”

“Um, yeah, okay.”

I move aside a little so the team can do what it needs to. They swab his mouth, take some blood, a few hairs from his head, and scrape a little bit of his skin into a tube. “You okay?” I ask after that part, which I know from my training classes, doesn’t feel the best.

“Yep. The police didn’t take my skin.”

“We’re more advanced.”

“That makes me feel lucky to have you on my side.”

“The other side of us is just as good, but Reina wanted me to make sure you know that even though they’re working to make sure you aren’t guilty, it doesn’t mean she believes you did what you’re accused of.”

“I understand, Audrey. I respect the hell out of all of you, and what you do.”

“Thank you. We’ll talk soon. I’m going to send Teeg and her team in next.”

She hugs me, and walks out. I turn to Wayne, and give him a little bit of encouragement. “You only have one more group, and then I’ll tuck you in.”

“As long as you’re tucking me into you, I’ll take you up on that.”

“I think that can be arranged.”

“Splendid.”

I burst out laughing. “You have to stop talking like me.”

“Didn’t we already establish that I love the way you talk when you stop trying to be an American?”

“Yes, but it’s a little ridiculous hearing you speak like a posh Londoner.”

“It’s my hair, isn’t it?” he asks, pulling it down so it falls over his eyes, and down to his chin. “It’s not posh.”

“Posh is sometimes overrated. I’ll take ‘sexy with a little bit of an edge’ any day.”

He groans. “Damn beautiful people feature.”

“You know you love it. You just pretend to be put out.”

“It’s a nice ego boost, but you’re an even better one.”

“Yeah, yeah, you tamed the shrew.”

“Shrew? Never. Snob, maybe. To the outside world at least. I always knew there was more to you below the surface.”

“Thanks for giving me a chance, Wayne, and for waiting for me to get my head out of my ass, and admit how much I love you.”

“No way I could resist you when you insulted me so well in public, while letting me tie you to my bed in private,” he tells me with a smile. “Seriously, though, I meant it when I said I would’ve waited forever. You’re more than worth the wait.”

I don’t know what I can say that will do justice to that, so I choose to just seal my lips over his, and let them speak for me. We kiss for a few minutes, keeping things slow and sweet, before we’re interrupted by the next group entering the room.

“Sorry, but you’ll have plenty of time for that once we’re done,” Tegan says, taking the chair across from us.

“That we will,” Wayne agrees.

Harlow and Nev take seats around us, while everyone else spreads out around the room. These are the researchers. Similar to Isa’s group, but while hers is strictly old-school, this group will use electronic resources when necessary. They don’t hack, but they know how to poke around the internet to find what they’re looking for.

“You know I don’t beat around the bush, so let’s just get to it. Why didn’t you tell us you’d conversed with Sonia over Tweets and Facebook comments before the incident?” Tegan asks.

“I did?”

“Yes.”

She tosses some papers on the table. Wayne picks them up, holding them so I can see them, too. They’re conversations between him and “mrspreston16” on Twitter, and “Son P” on Facebook. There is no way he could’ve known who she was, unless she told him.

“I had no idea she was this person. I remember the conversations, but how would I know it’s her? Her profile pic on both are me, and not her.”

“She didn’t mention it when you saw her at the bar?”

“Definitely not. She said she was going to post the pictures, but everyone I pose with does that, so I didn’t think it was strange.”

“Makes sense, but we have to wonder if this was all part of a plan to make you look bad. You told her you had a girlfriend when she asked if you’d go on a date with her,” Harlow mentions.

“I also told her I was flattered. She didn’t seem mad after that.”

“Yeah, well, that’s social media for you. You never know what’s really going on with the person behind the keyboard. Trust me, I’ve seen my share of trolls on Dylan’s pages,” Nev tells him.

I know Dylan still gets hate mail for being with a Muslim woman, and I also know that mail is closely monitored by the Society. No one is willing to take a chance that someone will attack not only him, but also Nev, and even his sister, Ellie. The Society protects its own, and even though we’re split up right now, we’d still be there for each other in a minute, no questions asked.

“Scott’s team will share the timeline with us, but is there anything else you can remember? Anything, even if you think it’s small?” Tegan asks him.

“Honestly, no. I can’t think of anything.”

“Okay, well we’ll let you go for now. If we find anything else that looks suspicious, we’ll meet with you again. Otherwise, just know we’re doing everything we can to clear you.”

“I know that, Teeg, but thanks for saying it.”

They’re the ones hugging this time, while I smile at them. As the others file out, Stella, Darcy, Rose, and Matisse walk in. They’re the last to talk to Wayne, and it won’t be a formal meeting. Before his impromptu press conference, he talked to Camari, and her group, so this is the end for us tonight.

“We don’t need any info from you, but we wanted to just stop in, and give our support. You won’t see our work, but it will be important, nonetheless,” Stella tells him.

“I have no doubt Stell.” He turns to me. “You’re with them?”

“Yes,” I say, not elaborating on who’s group I’m in.

I don’t want him to worry if I go undercover. He knows it’s my job, but I have a feeling that if I put myself in danger for him, he’s not going to be okay with it. Sure enough, we’re on the same wavelength again.

“Is that safe?”

“We’re spies, Wayne. I’m going to be doing stuff like this for a long time if I pass.”

“Oh, you’re passing. Teeg would kill you herself if you don’t,” Stella tells me.

“No pressure or anything, Jen,” Darcy says with a laugh.

“None at all, Darce.”

“Seriously, though, we all have faith in all of you,” Stella says.

“Good, because we have faith in each other, and ourselves, too,” Rose says. “We’ve all got this.”

Some days I believe she’s right, and then I accidentally say something a posh princess would say, instead of what an American woman would. It’s those times I doubt myself. I can’t afford that luxury right now, because Wayne can’t afford it. I need to be strong for him, brave for him, American for him. Let’s just hope I can pull it off.