When Stacey's father asks her to take a vacation with him, she knows just where to go: Fire Island. It's close to New York City, and it's where her boyfriend's family is vacationing too!

When I told Claudia I'd known Robert would be at Davis Park all along, she was pretty ticked off. she went stomping out of the Harbor Store and I had to chase her down the boardwalk. "I can't believe you've been lying to me!" she grumbled when I finally caught up with her.

"I didn't think you'd come if you knew about Robert," I admitted. "I didn't tell you because I really wanted you to come."

The frown stayed on Claudia's face, but her dark eyes softened a bit. "Really?"

"Yes!" I insisted. "Robert will be working all day almost every day."

"Why did you lie?" Claudia asked poutily.

"I just told you!" I cried.

"Aren't we best friends?" said Claudia.

"Of course we are."

"Best friends don't lie and keep secrets. I don't really mind that Robert is here. That's okay. In fact, it's kind of romantic. But it bugs me that you lied."

I put my hand on her arm. "You're right. I'm sorry. Would you have come if I'd told you about Robert?"

A small smile formed on Claudia's lips. "No."

"See?" I cried.

Claudia laughed a little. "You should have told me, anyway."

"Then you wouldn't have come!"

The problem wasn't exactly resolved, but I was glad Claudia wasn't angry anymore. She sighed and shook her head. "I guess it's nice that you wanted me here that badly."

"I did. And I won't lie to you ever again."

"Promise?"

"Promise," I said. "But, listen, Dad doesn't know about Robert, so don't mention him being here. Okay?"

"You shouldn't lie to your father, too," Claudia said.

I raised my eyebrows. "You can't talk! You hid junk food and sneak your Nancy Drew books at night!"

Claudia sighed. "I suppose your right. All right. I won't say anything.

Stacey's Lie
Published by Scholastic Inc. 1996
ISBN: 0590470140