The italicized excerpt prior to Chapter 22 describes Jenny standing next to the tall boy serving punch at the Conundrum party. She continues “sipping” (182) her drink.

Reluctantly, Richard accompanies Jordan to the meeting at the Dean of Students Office. The night before, Richard had been ambushed by the Bockus family, who took him out for dinner, where he had to listen to their conversation about what might happen during the interview with the investigator. Richard enjoyed his steak but avoided speaking much.

Moments before the meeting is set to begin, Jordan arrives, wearing a neatly ironed outfit and looking nervous. Richard thinks to himself that Jordan is “petrified” and “almost feels sorry for him” (186).

In the meeting, Dean Elliot Hunt, a former English professor, begins the inquiry process with routine questions to Jordan about whether he has been informed regarding Jenny’s statement and accusations. As Jordan signs an affidavit asserting that he is aware of the procedures, Dean Hunt asks Richard how he is doing, cautioning him about his role as an advisor. Richard avoids giving any information, while Jordan immediately interjects about Richard being his “close friend” (190).