In that instant, Jossy realized: this wasn't just about photos, or a night out. It was about control. His life, his pride, and his image..it had always come before hers. And maybe..maybe it was time she stopped pretending that he cared about her or their marriage.
She swallowed hard, her heart heavy. "I…" Her voice faltered. She looked at him, then at her phone, then back at him. "I need… I need a moment."
Frustration flashing across his face. "A moment? We don't have a moment! The media is tearing me apart."He sounded miserable.
"I… I'll think," she said, almost inaudible. Her mind raced with possibilities. She could post the lie and save him, and save their marriage..but..did she still believe in their marriage? She didn't know.
"Jossy, you are my wife, my only wife. You should post something !" he started begging. "You'll tell them it's fake, that night never happened. Do it please, for the sake of our marriage. I'll do something for you in return. What do you want, baby?"
Jossy's throat tightened. He hadn't called her that in months, and it affected her. Did he mean it? But then she realized.. He must be desperate.
"Damien," she said, her voice quiet but firm, "you want to do something for me? Great. I'll handle it. I'll post the message, but.. only if I'm allowed to go out, maybe even get a Job of my choice." She knew he would eventually find out about her job anyway. Better to save myself from the consequences, she thought to herself.
He froze, as if she had spoken a foreign language. "What? Are you manipulating me? My wife, working? This is not about you Jossy! I knew you were selfish, but this? you are not that kind of person Jossy"
"I know," she said softly, looking away for just a moment and almost giving in, "but a job..it's important to me. It won't interfere with anything else I promise. I'll protect you, but I need this."