Jamie, a thoughtful sophomore with a mop of curly hair, stands by a bulletin board, watching a crowd gather around a trending rumor. Riya, Jamie’s best friend and a digital enthusiast, scrolls through her feed, her brow furrowed. "Everyone’s talking about the teacher supposedly getting fired. Social is blowing up."

Jamie sits at the edge of a table, listening as stories spiral and mutate. Mason, a loud, persuasive senior, leans in. "I heard Ms. Torres yelled at the principal in front of everyone. My cousin saw it. She’s done for." "Are you sure that’s what happened? Did anyone actually see it?"

Jamie scrolls, noticing how quickly opinions harden without evidence. "It’s strange how everyone’s convinced. No one’s asking real questions." "People just want to be sure, even if it’s wrong. It feels safer to pick a side."

Mason corners Jamie by the water fountain, his voice sharp and insistent. "You have to spread the word, Jamie. If you’re not with us, you’re against us." "I just want to know what’s really happening. Why don’t we talk to Ms. Torres herself?"

Jamie and Riya approach, curiosity outweighing certainty. "Ms. Torres, may we ask what happened? There are so many stories going around, and none seem to match." Ms. Torres, dignified and gentle, smiles softly. "I appreciate your honesty. There was a misunderstanding about a schedule—no yelling, no firing. I wish more students asked before believing."

"You were right. Curiosity changes everything. Maybe next time, people will ask first." "It’s not easy to think clearly when everyone’s yelling, but it’s worth it." The air feels lighter, and the world—if only for a moment—seems quieter, clearer.