"Oh, okay," she said. "Come meet me in the library when you get back."

"Sure," I nodded, happy she was too sweet to not believe my lie.

I hurried out, trying to avoid any of my other friends.

I could feel my hands trembling as I walked the two blocks to Mrs. Madison's house.

Reaching her door, I quickly knocked, feeling as if someone may see me.

The door opened after less than thirty seconds, but it felt like an hour.

"Come in," Mrs. Madison greeted firmly. Looking at her, it seemed impossible that she could be the leading Mistress of a secret society of housewives.

"Yes, ma'am," I nodded,...