Beck hurried out, stopping to mouth “call me later” to Mandy over Mrs. Green’s shoulder. Forgetting to close the door, she ran over to Theo’s to ask for a ride.

“Mandy,” started Mrs. Green, crossing her arms in a lawyerly fashion. “You told me yesterday that you had no homework, is this correct?”

“Um.” said Mandy. She hated it when her mother treated her like a witness. “Yes.”

“And you also stated that you and Beck missed the bus, and so you got a ride home with Theo?”

“Yeah, so?” Mandy shifted uncomfortably.

“So, I don’t believe you.” hissed Mrs. Green.

“What? Mom, I swear-”

“Amanda Green! You will not interrupt me! Theo’s car was not even in his driveway when you and Beck arrived home, and I called your classmate Sarah’s mother and she told me that Sarah had tons of homework this weekend! What is the meaning of this?”

“Mom, I’m telling the truth-”

“DO NOT LIE TO ME, Amanda!” Mrs. Green was furious.

Mandy felt like crying.