I wonder what story I can make up so I can go and meet Tefo, Patricia thought as she sat on the steps in front of her house. She was sixteen years old, and in love for the first time in her life. It felt wonderful and was even better than the romantic books she liked to read late at night.

Her cellphone beeped that she had received a text. She looked down and saw it was from Tefo.

Want 2 meet me at the mall 4 a coffee?

She jumped up and went inside the house. She tried to keep the excitement out of her voice as she spoke to her Mom.

“Zanele wants me to go over and help her with her English homework,” she lied, easily. Lately Patricia had learnt to tell many lies. She couldn’t believe how they tripped off her tongue so easily.

“Oh Patty.” Mom always called her that. “I wanted you to stay and help me with the baby.”

For a moment Patricia felt guilty. Mom looked worn out from taking care of the baby, Thulani. Only a few weeks ago everything in Patty’s life had been perfect. Now everything had changed. She didn’t like it one little bit.

“I won’t stay too long,” Patty promised. “It’s just that we have to have this English essay in on Monday,” she lied again. “I’m also struggling a bit with my ending.”

“Hayi, wena. I don’t want to get in the way of your studies,” Mom said. “But could you just spare me half an hour, Patty? I’m just not feeling great. I’m exhausted and if you help me bath Thulani you can go.”

Patricia felt annoyed and resentful at her Mom. She didn’t want to keep Tefo waiting. She felt lucky enough that he had asked her out. He could have any girl he wanted, but he only wanted her. Well, that is what he had told her many times.

“You’re beautiful,” he told her again and again. “I want to be the man to make love to you.” He would say, looking dreamily into her eyes.

Tefo wanted to have sex with her. Patricia was still a virgin and was intent on keeping it that way. But of course that was before she met Tefo. He was different to every other guy she had met. He was tall, handsome and so very sexy. He reminded her of Will Smith, who was her favourite actor. She had watched every movie he had starred in. If she had sex with Tefo it would be like going to bed with Will Smith. Who in their right mind would turn down an offer like that?

***

Tell us what you think: What is dangerous about telling lies?