Everyone knows everything about everyone—this is another of the 4,724 reasons I want to escape Athens.

Late in the afternoon, I quickly grab my vibrating phone. I am walking on eggshells trying not to wake my mother.

Bethany-ready for dinner & movie?

Me-yes

Bethany-good. I’m in your driveway.

What? She’s here? Why would she drive all the way out to my house? I grab my cash and quietly slip from the house.

Bethany waves through her open ...