Lila sat quietly at one of the corner tables, her tray untouched. Her eyes were clouded with worry, darting between her classmates who whispered and glanced her way. She felt the weight of unsaid words pressing down on her shoulders.
Sam, her best friend, slid into the seat across from her. "Hey, what's up? You look like you've seen a ghost," he said, concern lining his voice.
"There's a rumor going around," Lila whispered, her voice barely audible over the din. "I just can't believe they'd think that of me."
"What rumor?" Sam asked, leaning forward with genuine interest.
Lila hesitated, her fingers tracing the edge of her tray. "They're saying I cheated on the math test. But Sam, you know I wouldn’t do that. I studied so hard for it."
Sam nodded firmly, "Trust me, I know you better. Let’s confront it together."
"First, let's talk to Mr. Collins," Sam suggested. "He knows you wouldn't cheat. Maybe he can help clear things up."
Lila nodded, a spark of hope in her eyes. "And maybe I can show him my notes. I still have them all from our study sessions."
Sam smiled reassuringly, "Exactly. Together, we'll figure this out."
Lila took a deep breath, glancing at Sam for reassurance. "I'm ready," she said, determination etched in her voice.
Sam gave her a supportive nod, "Let's do this."
"Mr. Collins, there's been a misunderstanding," Lila began, her voice steady. "I didn’t cheat on the test. I have all my notes here to prove it."
Mr. Collins nodded thoughtfully as Sam added, "Lila is one of the hardest working students I know. We studied together for weeks."
Mr. Collins, the understanding teacher, spoke gently, "I believe you, Lila. Let's put this rumor to rest. I'll speak with the class and clear your name."Lila beamed, gratitude spilling over. "Thank you, Mr. Collins. And thank you, Sam. I couldn't have done this without you."Sam grinned, "That's what friends are for."
