“What?!” Lily looked at him. “The last thing I want is attention. I just want this to be over!” She began to cry again, to her dismay. She ignored the tears and went on, “I would not lie about something like this. You’ve got to believe me.”

Everyone seemed to be looking between the two of them, trying to decide who to believe. Mr. G opened his mouth, then shut it, studying the faces of both teenagers. He wasn’t sure what was going on. Lily was a smart girl, straight A’s, never a problem. He, on the other hand, was a bit more of a troublemaker, although never anything serious. Very charismatic, generally polite.

There was a long pause after Lily’s words. Then he burst out, “You are such a liar! Just admit it. You want attention!”

“You jerk!” Anna cried. “You—“

“Anna, please.” Mr. G cut in, not unkindly. “Let’s be civil.”

“Sorry.”

“I think,” he continued, clearing his throat, “That Lily should see a therapist, to discuss her options. Whether she wants to take this to court.”