That afternoon, CJ walked into the briefing room with her head held high, ready to face the chaos of the White House Press Corps. As she entered the room, it fell silent, and she could feel 50 sets of eyes staring at her intently, trying to figure out what she would say. She approached the podium and announced with her usual grace
"Good afternoon. Some of you may be aware that the Washington Post ran a story about me this afternoon. I will not be taking any questions on this matter; I will be reading a brief statement then we will continue with the briefing as usual."
The press corps looked frustrated, given that the revelation about CJ was by far the day's biggest story. However, they remained alert waiting for her statement.
"It is true that several years ago I was sexually assaulted by former Vice President John Hoynes. I will now attempt to answer any questions you may have wanted to ask.
Had I been drinking? Yes. I had had what I now recognize was too much to drink; however, my being obviously unconscious should have been a signal of my inability to consent.
Did I go to the police? No. I felt, and still feel, that Vice President Hoynes' position, my incapacitation at the time of the crime, and the general attitude towards victims of sexual assault would have precluded me from receiving justice.
Did I tell anyone? No. Until two days ago, when I discovered that a story was breaking about my so-called affair with Vice President Hoynes, I had told no one. As I prepared for the story to drop I told the following people: President Bartlet, Mrs. Bartlet, Toby Ziegler, Josh Lyman, Danny Concannon, and a few close friends.
Does the President have a statement? No, as I have told you many times, the White House does not comment on the personal lives of staff members.
In closing, I would like to ask you all to please respect the very personal and serious nature of this story. I won't be taking questions about this matter. Thank you. Now moving on to the briefing as usual."
CJ took a breath; she had done it. She had survived the moment that had terrified her. Now she was able to move on and focus on what she wanted to focus on instead of letting her past dictate her future.