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A speech I gave on sustainable ocean resources went viral online.
"Didn't know marine research had young scientists like her. Thought it was all old experts."
"Her points are really fresh. Hits different."
"She should stream. I'd watch her dive. We need more ocean awareness."
My popularity grew. I started a wave of ocean interest.
The marine institute loved it. They posted fun videos to promote ocean conservation.
But then, negative comments appeared.
Someone claimed I'd made a deal with man-eating Sirens during a cruise, causing everyone on board to die.
News reports about the missing ship resurfaced, drawing attention.
"Man-eating Sirens" entered public awareness.
Only one person could've leaked that: Jessica.
She started streaming. Her horrifying appearance attracted curious viewers.
She painted me as a sociopath, telling how I brought the Sirens onboard, let them eat everyone, and tortured her.
Her scars and broken legs gained sympathy.
People turned on me.
The next day, reporters and onlookers crowded the institute's entrance.
"Ms. Wendy Lawson, are man-eating Sirens real?"
"Is it true you made a deal with Sirens, causing the ship to vanish?"
"Did you intentionally hurt your best friend? How could you?"
"Why would you harm your own kind?"
"What impact would discovering Sirens have on the ecosystem?"
My parents and Lucas rushed over. Institute staff protected me.
Staying silent made things worse. The story spread.
When the time was right, I announced a press conference.
And invited Jessica.
