We'll review everything thoroughly, Holloway assured her, already sliding her folder to the side of his desk. Though during Foundation Week, our investigation timeline may be somewhat extended. Noah cleared his throat. For the record, what is the university's standard response time for investigating sexual harassment and assault complaints? The dean's eyes hardened.
The campus newspaper might want to focus on more positive stories during our celebration week. They left 30 minutes later with nothing but vague assurances. "One more stop." Noah said, leading her toward the basement offices of the student newspaper. The cramped space was empty except for two junior reporters finishing layout work. Noah unlocked a filing cabinet and pulled out a folder.
"Two years ago, Melissa Jacobs and Trisha Watson filed complaints against football players." He explained, showing her redacted copies. "Melissa transferred suddenly mid-semester. Trisha lost her academic scholarship over conduct violations that appeared right after her complaint." "They bury women who fight back." Danielle said quietly. "They try to." Noah corrected. "But they haven't dealt with someone like you before." At her dorm shortly before midnight, Danielle had just finished securing her door with a makeshift lock brace when a soft knock startled her.
She approached cautiously. "Who is it?" "It's Ava." came a whispered reply. Danielle cracked the door to find Ava Lynn standing in the hallway, glancing nervously in both directions. "Can I come in?" "Just for a minute." Danielle let her inside, closing the door quickly. "I shouldn't be here." Ava said, voice barely audible.
"But I heard about your tires and" She took a shaky breath. "Sierra told some of us the fall was necessary. Those were her exact words. Necessary. She said you needed to learn your place." Ava perched on the edge of Danielle's desk chair like she might bolt at any second.
Her fingers twisted nervously in her lap as she glanced at the phone recording between them. I'm here. Noah's voice came through the speaker. And I'm taking notes. Danielle leaned against her dresser, shoulders still aching.
Ava, I appreciate you coming. Whatever you can tell us helps. I shouldn't be doing this. Ava's voice trembled. Sierra has connections.
Her dad plays golf with the athletic director. Take your time, Danielle said gently. What exactly did you see before the halftime show? Ava took a deep breath. Sierra disappeared right before warm-ups.
I went looking for her and saw her with Tyler near the tunnel entrance. They were arguing about something, but when they saw me, they stopped talking. And then? Noah prompted from the phone. 20 Minutes later, Sierra changed all the stunt positions.
She moved you to top of the pyramid and switched three bases. Ava looked directly at Danielle. That never happens without days of practice. Never. Did she say why?