Chapter 9 - Jessica’s Bargain
Jessica avoided the harshest possible outcome by cooperating.
Part of me hated that.
Another part understood justice was not designed to satisfy my emotions.
Her evidence exposed two executives Richard had bribed and three external vendors involved in the scheme.
Before sentencing, Jessica asked to meet me.
I almost refused.
Then curiosity won.
We met with attorneys present.
She looked completely different without designer clothes and carefully arranged confidence.
“Why Brendan?” I asked.
She blinked.
“That's what you wanted to ask?”
“Yes.”
She looked down.
“At first? Because he was attractive and married.”
I almost laughed at the brutal honesty.
“That made him more attractive?”
“It made winning mean something.”
“And later?”
“I thought Richard was going to make Brendan president.”
“So you wanted access.”
“Yes.”
“Did you love him?”
She thought about it.
“No.”
I appreciated the answer despite hating it.
“Did he love you?”
Jessica looked at me.
“No. He loved being wanted by someone who made him feel powerful.”
That sounded painfully accurate.
Before leaving, Jessica said something unexpected.
“I hated you.”
“You barely knew me.”
“Exactly.”
I frowned.
“Richard talked about you like you were dangerous. Brendan talked about you like you were nothing. I couldn't understand how both could be true.”
“And pouring water over me helped?”
Her eyes filled.
“No.”
For once, she looked ashamed.
“I was cruel because cruelty made me feel like I belonged at that table.”
I stood.
May you like
“Then choose better tables.”
That was the last conversation we ever had.
