Page 107 of Rush

“Just forget I ever existed because that’s what I intend to do with you.”

Tears sting my eyes.

Shit. Don’t cry.

Deep breaths. I’m okay.

I need to focus on my anger. That I was drugged, possibly by someone who was pretending to be my friend. Someone who just wanted a story and fast money and would go to the lengths of drugging me, making it look like I was drunk.

I know what a story like that would sell for.

Well, I hope he enjoys the money.

The doctor walks back in the room and takes his seat at his desk.

He turns to face me and exhales, and I just know what he’s going to say.

“Okay. So, you tested positive for flunitrazepam. The showing was low, but it was there.”

“What is that?” I ask through my paper-dry mouth.

“It’s more commonly known as Rohypnol.”

Jesus Christ.

Even though I knew this was highly likely and I’m relieved that I’m not losing my goddamn mind and drinking without even being aware, I’m still shocked, angry, and hurt that someone would do that to me.

“As you’re probably aware, it’s a drug that is quite often used to facilitate sexual assault. It makes the person who has been given it look like they’re drunk. They’ll have trouble standing. Slurred speech. Loss of muscle control. Nausea.”

“I had all of those.”

“And you say all you drank was Diet Coke?”

“Yes.”

“Arianna…I know this isn’t a question you’ll want to hear, but I have to ask…is there any possibility that you think you could have been sexually assaulted?”

I clasp my hands in my lap and shake my head. “I don’t think so. I recall leaving the auction and going into my apartment alone. And I don’t feel…like…you know.” I nod south.

“Okay.” He nods his head. “Well, either way, we can do a rape test kit if you want one done to be sure.”

I shake my head again. “No. I’m sure I would know…but thank you.”

“Okay. Well, what I do suggest is that you file a report with the police. You were drugged against your will, and that is a crime. And people don’t use this drug without intent. It was lucky that you managed to get out of there and get home before something more serious happened.”

I know I’m lucky. But I don’t feel it.

And, honestly, I don’t think that was ever Leo’s intent. He wanted me to appear drunk, so he could sell a story.

I knew journalists could be devious. I just didn’t realize how low they could go.

“Thank you, Dr. Pritchard. I appreciate you seeing me on short notice.”

“No problem at all.”

“Could I ask a favor?”

“Sure.”