Dean Whitaker twisted the Rubik's Cube first one direction then another, the colorful squares switching positions with each turn. "Smith, when I hired you, it was with the understanding you are a man of principle, a disciplinarian skilled at educating young minds. I didn't hire you to add unnecessary drama to the overactive imaginations of the impressionable."
"Yes, sir, I know that. But I can't control falsehoods."
"You can, and you will. Teaching is about more than lectures and tests. You must manage expectations, and yes, it's a popularity contest. Especially for a young man as good looking as you. But you don't want to be too popular. No, too much popularity sparks more rumors than too little popularity. You're learning that lesson now."
"Yes sir, but while I'm learning that lesson, my assistant shouldn't be left hanging out to dry."
Whitaker nodded. "Agreed. What do you propose?"
"First, take down the forum posts."
