by B Truly
Tanya finally comes up with a response. “I care about Jackson as I would of any family member. Unless I’m under arrest, I’d like to leave now.”
“Those are all the questions at this time.” Ms. Driver smirks. “You will be in serious trouble if you’re lying or concealing information.”
“I understand. Am I free to go?”
“You may leave,” Official Levi dismisses her.
My situation is looking brighter. When Tanya’s interrogations started, I feared the worst. Now it seems to be working in my favor.
45
Chain Reaction
Justin paces around the room—clearly his patience is gone. They’d left the room for a brief intermission and a police officer had escorted Justin inside.
A few minutes later, Official Levi and my lawyer enter. Justin exhales, loudly. “Maybe now I can finally get some straight answers.”
“I’m Paula Levi. I’ll be taking your statement. This is Madison’s lawyer,” Levi tells him.
His brow furrows. “Is it true that my brother’s getting charges pressed against him by Madison? Both my father and Charlotte are being really hush-hush about it. When I tried talking to my brother, he wouldn’t give me a straight answer.” Justin runs a hand over his head. “Can you please tell me what’s going on?”
“We’ll get to that.” Ms. Levi indicates for him to sit across the table.
Justin plops down with a thud. “All I know for sure is this involves Madison. Is she okay?”
My chest tightens. What’s surprising is that Justin hasn’t been informed of all the facts. My mind is reeling, wondering what his reaction will be.
“Why don’t you let me ask the questions. I’ll fill you in with what you need to know. This conversation will be recorded. First, please state your full name.”
Sighing, he replies, “Justin Jamail Jenkins.”
Official Levi goes over basic mandates about being honest—the same routine as with Jackson and Tanya, telling him he could be persecuted for lying or withholding info. Justin nods.
“Madison Guillory has spoken with us about your relationship. Why don’t you tell me about it in your own words?”
“Okay, I’ve got nothing to hide. When she first moved in, we were friends, but we had a connection from the jump. It ended up becoming more. For a while we were in a relationship.”
“An intimate one?”
“It depends on what you call intimate. We never had sexual relations, if that’s what you mean. The most we’d ever done was heavy petting.”
“That checks out with what Madison has told us. What about her and Jackson’s relationship?”
Justin’s nose wrinkles. “What about it? They got along well enough.”
“Did you ever notice Jackson pursuing Madison or the other way around?”
Creases line on Justin’s forehead. “Neither one of them did in front of me. I was aware that Jackson liked Madison, too. When he realized Madison was interested in me, Jackson told me he’d move out the way. He started going out with a girl at school named Suri. I thought his feelings for Madison were water under the bridge.”
“What about your brother behaving in an inappropriate manner toward Madison?”
“He never did when I was around. I would hope he’d have more respect for her than to do anything like that.”
“Hum....” Official Levi ponders.
“What are you getting at? Were Madison and Jackson messing around behind my back? I’m starting to get really anxious. Can you please just spell it out?”
“According to your brother that was the case. Madison, on the other hand, has accused your brother of sexual coercion and assaulting her. That’s why all of you are here for questioning.”
His nostrils flare, then Justin shoots to his feet. “What! When?” He starts pacing again.
“Mr. Jenkins, please calm down. We’re not finished.”
“I want to see Madison.”
“If you’ll kindly have a seat, I’ll give you what information I can.”
Justin slowly returns to his seat. He presses his trembling hands against his forehead. “When did this happen? None of this makes sense.”
“The first occurrence was on the night of December 26th last year.”
“The first?” As Justin is putting the pieces together, he pales, looking like he’s seen a ghost.
“Is this news surprising?”
“This is shocking as hell. I never imagined....” He shakes his head with a look of disgust. “What … exactly happened the day after Christmas?”
“That was when your brother allegedly manipulated Madison into having intercourse.”
“Manipulated?” Justin’s brow furrows. “Is that why Madison changed after Christmas?”
“In what way did she change?”
“She pushed me away—broke up with me,” Justin whispers. “I knew something was wrong. I asked her countless times what it was. She either brushed me off or pretended she was fine.” Justin exhales loudly. “Did my brother … rape her?”
“He’s being accused of sexual coercion.”
Justin’s face contorts, searching for understanding. He bobs his Adam’s apple, and then he asks, “Did my brother assault her?”
“Yes, according to Madison.”
“You said the first time. It happened more than once?”
“There was another incidence of harassment.” Justin’s hazel eyes grow wide. Official Levi presses forward. “Madison stayed with you until the end of April. After Christmas, did you see any interaction between your brother and her?”
“Not much. I hardly ever saw her or Jackson in the same room together. Madison pretty much stayed to herself. Now I know why.” Justin clenches his hands into fists, shifting in his seat.
“How was Tanya and Madison’s relationship?”
“They weren’t close. Tanya always talked down to Madison.”
“Why do you think she did?”
Justin shrugs. “From what I’ve seen of Tanya’s character, she likes to put others down to make herself feel better.”
“Were you there when Madison and Tanya had an altercation in March?”
“I came into the room right after my dad.”
“Do you know what the argument was about?”
“No, Madison wouldn’t tell me. I did hear Madison say to Tanya, ‘Why would I lie about that,’ when I entered the room.”
“What happened next?”
“Madison was about to hit Tanya, then I intervened, taking Madison out the room.”
“So, Madison attacked Tanya?”
Justin narrows his eyes. “It wasn’t like Tanya was a helpless fawn. She was trying to attack Madison also and talking smack.”
“Did Jackson ever discuss anything about him and Madison with you?”
“Only that he liked her in the beginning. As far as I know, Jackson started dating Suri. He used to always tease me about running behind Madison like a lost puppy. I had no idea he was taking advantage of Madison behind my back.”
“How well would you say you know Madison Guillory?”
“Very well. We talked about everything—our favorite food, hobbies, family, our goals, and dreams. Our parents dying. We became best friends.”
My heart expands. Other than Dariel, he had been my best friend also.
Levi glances at Ms. Driver. My lawyer says, “Do you think Madison had a vendetta against your brother?”
“What do you mean?”
“Would she purposely lie or blackmail Jackson?”
“No, what would Madison have to gain from doing that? Madison’s a good person with high morals and values. She wouldn’t go to this extreme for no reason or as a vengeful ploy.”
“Do you think Madison is falsely accusing Jackson Jenkins of assaulting her?”
Justin stares at his hands. “If those are Madison’s accusations, then I believe her.” He sways in his seat. “I’m not feeling well. I need some fresh air.”
; “I have a few more questions. Please be patient, and we’ll be done shortly,” Ms. Driver tells him.
I have no clue how this situation will pan out. One thing I’m certain of, I am relieved everything is now out in the open.
* * *
Ms. Driver comes into the room I’m in shortly after they finish up with Justin.
“How are you holding up?” asks Ms. Driver.
“I have mixed emotions. Jackson is a con artist. I almost believed him, and Tanya backed him up. At least Justin seems to be on my side.”
“Situations like these are complicated. If Jackson did this to you, then he’ll probably do it again to someone else. You are doing the right thing by coming forward.”
“You think I have a chance to prosecute him?”
“He’s free to go for now, but I believe the odds will work in our favor. The case will be investigated and I’ll keep you posted. Madison, have faith. As Proverbs 26:26 states, while their hatred may be concealed by trickery, their wrongdoing will be exposed in public.”
“I appreciate your words of encouragement. What happens next?”
“That’s it for today. Jackson will be required to take a DNA test before he leaves the state, as well as you and Justice. I’m also going to request that he takes a drug test. I’ll be contacting you soon.”
I follow Ms. Driver to the lobby where the others are gathered. Justin stands off to the side with Regan. I can’t understand Justin’s expression—a mixture of sadness and anger.
Regan’s staring at the floor. Charlotte is near them, and she won’t meet my gaze. Tanya’s complexion looks shades lighter.
Jackson comes from around the corner. Against my will, my eyes lock with his. If looks could kill, then I’d be dead with the glare he gives me. I break eye contact, taking a step backward.
Justin’s hands ball into fists. His nostrils flare when he meets his brother’s eyes. Without warning, Justin charges his twin like a defensive lineman. The force of impact slams them into a wall. Justin rears back, punching Jackson in the face.
“I can’t believe you’d do something like this!” Justin shouts.
I cover my mouth with my hand. Tanya and Charlotte gasp. The rest of the station gets as quiet as a church in Hades—eyes glued on the throw down. Two officers, who are nearby, can jump in at any time. Instead, they stand there watching.
Jackson tries to hold off his twin by blocking his next blow. “She’s lying, bro! I’m sorry you had to find out this way, but she wanted me, too.”
They begin wrestling, Jackson attempting to hold Justin back. “Madison wouldn’t lie about this!”
“It was one time, and it was consensual.”
“I don’t believe you.”
“You’re gonna believe her over your own flesh and blood?”
Justin answers with a fist to his jaw. Jackson losing his composure, retaliates.
“Boys, stop!” Regan yells.
They aren’t listening, going blow for blow. Shell-shocked, I can only gape at them. This is a precinct, for crying out loud. When are they going to break them up? Justin gets the upper hand, swiping Jackson’s feet from underneath him. He gets on top of him, whaling his fists.
“Oh, my God!” Tanya screeches. “Someone, break them up!”
One of the male cops nearby glances over at me, then back at his fellow officer. They finally step in to break them apart. It dawns on me that maybe they allowed Justin to get a few licks in, purposely. They must have heard about Jackson’s charges and thought it’s the least he deserves.
I have conflicted emotions on the matter. On one hand, I’m relieved Justin chose me—believes me when my own flesh and blood didn’t. I think I love him even more. What’s uncomfortable is feeling like the entire precinct knows my darkest secret. Guess it’s something I’ll have to get used to if there is going to be a trial.
Justin storms away to the parking lot after the officers break up the brawl. Jackson goes outside, too, and Tanya runs after him. As an after note, Regan follows them.
“You okay?” My lawyer places her hand on my shoulder.
“I can’t believe that just happened. I’m still shaken by the incident, but it’s good to know some people do have my back.”
“Family and friends who support you will always see you through.”
I offer her a small smile.
“Are you ready? It’s been a long morning.”
Charlotte clears her throat. “We can take her home.”
I forgot she was standing nearby. I shift my weight.
Ms. Driver looks at me uneasy. “Do you want her to drive you home?”
Charlotte steps forward. “I’m her mother. She’ll be fine riding with me.”
My lawyer is about to take charge, but there has been enough conflict today. “It’s fine. I will ride with them.”
Ms. Driver eyes Charlotte up and down. “I’ll call and check on you tomorrow.”
“Thank you for all your help.”
I pile into the backseat with Tanya, putting as much space between us as possible. I can feel Tanya staring at me. I choose to ignore her. I have nothing to say to her after hearing her statement. Covering for Jackson to the bitter end is unbelievable. She’s made her choice, and I’ve written her off as my sister. I’m an only child. Justin is nowhere in sight and neither is his wicked twin. They must’ve taken off already.
“That was awful, Mama,” Tanya blurts as we get onto the freeway.
“Let’s not talk about it right now,” she tells Tanya.
Charlotte attempts to make idle chit-chat the rest of the way. I can’t wait to get out of the car. Watching their interrogations has drained me, and I miss my baby girl.
Regan pulls up to Gigi’s driveway. “I’ll come by to visit Justice tomorrow,” Charlotte tells me.
Before I hop out, Regan asks, “May I walk you to the door, Madison?”
“Um, sure.”
Charlotte’s eyes grow wide. I don’t acknowledge either woman as I get out of the car. Regan follows slowly behind me. I unlock the front door, and we stand in the entryway of Gigi’s home.
Regan clears his throat. “Madison … I’m sorry my son has caused you pain. He needs to face what he’s done.”
“So, you believe me?”
“I’m not sure if you and Jackson had a fling beforehand or not, but no means no. On top of the fact that he manipulated you into thinking he was his brother.” Regan shifts his stance. “This has to be hard for you. But you have no reason to make this up—nothing to gain.”
“It means a lot for you to believe me. This must be a difficult situation for you, too. For the record, Jackson and I never had a relationship.” I feel my cheeks flush. “On the other hand, I do care deeply for your other son. Justin and I were never intimate to that degree, but I thought it was him that night….” Now Regan’s face reddens. It is really awkward discussing this with him. At the same time, I’m done hiding secrets. Letting my skeletons out of the closet makes me feel free.
“As parents, I guess we always view our children as kids. But you guys are almost grown and recently met, so you wouldn’t really feel like future stepsiblings.”
“Um … we tried to fight our feelings for each other with our parents dating and living together. It’s nothing we planned.”
Regan shifts his weight, nodding in understanding. “How is your daughter doing—my granddaughter?”
“She’s doing well. She only had to stay in the hospital for one week.”
“May I see her?”
Gigi appears from down the hall. “Oh, Madie, you’re back…. Oh, hello, Regan,” she sighs.
I don’t know if Gigi has a problem with Regan personally, or it’s more of the fact his son took advantage of me.
“Good evening, Mrs. Thibodeuax.”
“Hi, Gigi. Where’s Justice?”
“I just put her down for a nap, she’s fine.”
“If Justice is asleep, then I don’t want to disturb her. How about I
come by tomorrow with your mother to meet her?”
Gigi leaves the room. What Regan said about recently meeting his sons triggers something I’ve wondered about to cross my mind. “Regan, did you know my mom in high school?” He scrunches his nose at my out-of-the-blue question. I remember finding out they both attended Winsten High, him being two years older, and the photos of them together.
“I knew her in high school, but we didn’t date until after she graduated.” He clears his throat. “What makes you ask?”
“I was just wondering if you knew each other beforehand. It seems like the two of you have history.”
“We were both young the first time around. But I love your mother, and I’m glad we found each other again.”
“Fair enough.” Something tells me there’s more to it. I decide not to press the issue. I have enough on my plate to deal with.
* * *
The next day, my lawyer calls me in the am to relay that my DNA testing is set for Friday. Once those results come back, Charlotte and Tanya won’t be able to hide from the truth anymore. Somehow, knowing this makes me feel better.
Tanya, Charlotte, and Regan stop by later in the day. No sign of Justin, so I’m not sure what to think. He hasn’t texted or called me. Maybe he needs time to sort this mess out, which is understandable. Still, I have my reservations. I haven’t talked to him since he learned the truth.
“Where’s Justin?” I can’t help asking Regan.
“Oh, he’s back at the hotel.”
I nod, dropping it. Regan coos over how gorgeous Justice is. This whole scene feels like an episode of the Twilight Zone.
Tanya corners me a while later. “Are you going to ignore me forever?”
“I have nothing to say to you.”
She wrinkles her nose. “Look, what you told me was farfetched. Kinda hard to believe.”
“Awful things do happen. You just chose not to believe it.”
“That’s not true.”
“Tanya, give me a break. What does it matter anyhow, the damage is done.”
“I’m trying to talk to you about it. We should at least be able to have a conversation. I don’t get why you’re being so difficult.”
I cross my arms. “Are you serious? You can’t play it both ways. You’re still covering for Jackson.”
