Let's pretend we're together

Chapter 11.

Riley's POV:

I get ready for school, grabbing a quick toast for breakfast before heading out. Today, I have English class, and I feel determined to get personal and try to uncover some answers from Mr. Harry Smith, my teacher.

As soon as I arrive at school, I put on a brave face and fake tears as I make my way to his office.

Riley: "Mr. Smith, can we talk for a moment?"

Mr. Smith: "Of course, Miss Jones. Please, have a seat."

Riley: *hesitating* "It's a bit personal, but I need some advice. My best friend cheated on her boyfriend, and I don't know what to do."

Mr. Smith: *nodding* "I understand, these situations can be tricky. Sometimes people change, and relationships don't work out. It's essential to be honest with oneself and others."

Riley: "But isn't cheating wrong?"

Mr. Smith: "Yes, it is, and it can be hurtful to everyone involved. But life isn't always black and white, and sometimes people make mistakes."

Riley: *feeling conflicted* "But shouldn't we always try to be honest and treat others with respect?"

Mr. Smith: *pausing* "You're right, honesty and respect are vital in any relationship. But sometimes people struggle with their emotions and make choices they regret."

Riley's mind races as she processes Mr. Smith's words. It seems like there's more to the story than she initially thought. As she contemplates what to say next, Mr. Smith surprises her with a revelation.

Mr. Smith: "You know, there's a woman who's been involved with me in an affair. Her husband is also unfaithful to her, and they're planning to get a divorce once their child turns 18."

Riley: *shocked* "Who is she?"

Mr. Smith: "You'll find out soon enough, Miss Jones."

Feeling a mix of emotions, Riley leaves the office with more questions than answers. The encounter has left her with a sense of unease and an urge to dig deeper into the complexities of relationships. As she goes about her day, Mr. Smith's words linger in her mind, and she can't help but wonder about the secrets and struggles that lie beneath the surface of seemingly ordinary lives.

As days pass, Riley can't shake off the curiosity about Mr. Smith's mysterious affair. She starts observing him more closely, trying to find any hints or clues that might lead her to the identity of the woman involved. Meanwhile, she can't help but notice the strained atmosphere in Leo's house whenever his parents are together.

One afternoon, while sitting with Leo at a nearby park, Riley decides to bring up her suspicions about Mr. Smith and Leo's mom.

Riley: "Leo, I've been thinking a lot about what Mr. Smith said the other day. Do you think there's a chance he might be involved with your mom?"

Leo looks taken aback, clearly surprised by the question.

Leo: "I mean, I don't know. It sounds crazy, but I've noticed something's off between my parents lately."

Riley: "Maybe we should investigate a bit more, just to be sure."

Leo: *nervous* "But how? It's not like we can just ask him directly."

Riley: "No, of course not. We need to be discreet and observe carefully. Let's try to find any connections between them, any unusual interactions."

Together, they devise a plan to discreetly watch for any signs of a connection between Mr. Smith and Leo's mom. They start paying attention to any conversations between them at school events, noticing if they seem particularly close or if there are any unexplained disappearances. As they dig deeper, they find themselves getting more entangled in a web of secrets and hidden emotions.

One evening, while waiting outside school, Riley and Leo spot Mr. Smith and Leo's mom chatting by the parking lot. They decide to inconspicuously eavesdrop on their conversation.

Leo's Mom: "I can't keep doing this, Harry. It's tearing me apart, and Leo deserves to know the truth."

Mr. Smith: "I understand, but we have to be careful. We can't let anyone find out."

Leo's Mom: "I know, but it's getting harder to hide. Leo's starting to suspect something."

Riley and Leo exchange anxious glances, confirming their suspicions. There's no doubt now that something is going on between Mr. Smith and Leo's mom.

As they continue to investigate, they find themselves caught in a dilemma. Should they confront Mr. Smith and risk exposing the affair? Or should they let the truth unfold on its own?

The situation becomes increasingly complex, and Riley and Leo's friendship is put to the test as they navigate the difficult path of uncovering secrets and facing the consequences of their actions. Together, they must find the strength to handle the truth, whatever it may be, and support each other through the emotional rollercoaster that lies ahead.