One of Us Is Lying Summary

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Here you will find a One of Us Is Lying summary (Karen M. McManus's book).
We begin with a summary of the entire book, and then you can read each individual chapter's summary by visiting the links on the "Chapters" section.

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Last Updated: Monday 1 Jan, 2024

One of Us Is Lying Summary Overview

Simon Kelleher, a high school student renowned for revealing the hidden truths of his classmates through his gossip app, finds himself in detention with four other seniors: Addy Prentiss, Bronwyn Rojas, Cooper Clay and Nate Macauley. During the detention, a car accident happens outside and the supervisor leaves to investigate. Suddenly, Simon drinks some water and collapses, dying shortly after despite desperate attempts to find his life-saving EpiPen. The remaining students, now dubbed the "Bayview Four", become suspicious when police treat Simon's death as a potential murder and discover that Simon was about to publish secrets about each of them on his app. Addy, fearing exposure of her infidelity; Bronwyn, who once stole an exam and is angry at a post Simon wrote about her cancer-surviving sister, Maeve; Cooper, a well-liked baseball player rumored to use steroids but who is actually hiding his sexual orientation; and Nate, a past drug dealer who is developing feelings for Bronwyn, find themselves scrutinized. Although they are discouraged from interacting, the four begin working together, aided by Maeve and another student, Ashton, to clear their names and uncover the real truth behind Simon's death. Their investigation leads them to Simon's only friend, Janae, who confirms their suspicion that Simon planned his own death with the help of Addy's ex-boyfriend, Jake. Jake had been posting anonymously about the case and even tried to frame Addy, but instead implicated Nate when Janae refused to follow through. After a violent encounter with Jake which results in him being arrested, the Bayview Four are finally free from suspicion. Despite initial coldness from Nate, believing Bronwyn is better off without him, they reconcile and decide to continue their relationship, allowing each member of the group to finally move forward.

chapter 1

On a late September afternoon, Simon Kelleher spots Bronwyn Rojas scrolling through the About That app, a platform Simon uses to spill the secrets of their Bayview High peers. Joining them in detention are fellow students Nate Macauley, Cooper Clay, and Addy Prentiss. Teacher Mr. Avery has confiscated a number of mobile phones, leading the innocent Bronwyn, Addy, and Cooper to protest as the phones aren't theirs. Despite their arguments and Bronwyn's display of her actual phone, Mr. Avery seizes Bronwyn’s phone as well. Soon after detention begins, Simon can’t find his water bottle. When suggested to drink from the sink by Mr. Avery, he questions Nate about the possibility of a setup involving the confiscated phones. Their conversation is interrupted by a car crash outside. All present, except Simon, go to the window to look. Mr. Avery leaves to investigate, assigning Bronwyn the responsibility of keeping order in his absence. In the classroom, Simon begins to mockingly assign stereotypical roles to his classmates: Addy is the beauty queen, Cooper the athlete, Bronwyn the nerd, and Nate the delinquent, while referring to himself as an all-knowing narrator. After complaining about the taste of the water, he collapses. Nate identifies it as an allergic reaction and orders a search for an EpiPen. Unable to locate one, Bronwyn leaves to find a teacher and snatches her phone from Mr. Avery’s desk. Cooper races to the nurse's office for an EpiPen but returns empty-handed as paramedics arrive.

chapter 2

Cooper assists a distressed Addy in contacting her boyfriend, Jake, for a ride home. After obtaining permission to leave from Ms. Grayson, Addy feels thankful for Cooper's support. Seeing Jake brings relief, yet she feels embarrassed for not coping as well as Nate did. She's anxious about Jake no longer seeing her in a positive light while consoling her. Nate and Bronwyn exit the school to find an empty parking lot at 4 p.m. Nate, who has known Bronwyn since their early years, takes comfort in her company. Despite her caution about riding on his motorcycle, she does accept his offer of alcohol. As they talk over recent events, Nate finds Bronwyn's company wearisome, yet interesting. She expresses sympathy about Nate's mother's death, a fact she knew for a year but had never discussed with him. Nate drives Bronwyn home, and upon arrival, she receives the shocking news of Simon's death on her phone.

chapter 3

Bronwyn is the center of attention in homeroom, with Mrs. Park announcing Simon's passing. Bronwyn, who has never been featured on About That, feels a weight lift as her secret seems safe. Mrs. Park informs her that all students in detention with Simon need to attend therapy. While heading to her next class, Bronwyn catches the concern of Evan Neiman, a boy she likes. She also informs Nate, who showed up late, about the mandatory counseling, despite a friend's warning about Nate's notorious reputation. Even when asked, she refuses to help a peer with chemistry, a subject she has struggled with. That afternoon, Cooper and his girlfriend, Keely, are called to the main office, along with others who had detention with Simon. Officer Budapest wants to know everything that happened leading to Simon's death. Cooper recalls Simon getting water but didn’t see any spillage beforehand. Bronwyn remembers Simon didn't drink immediately and shares with the officer about the hidden cell phones. Officer Budapest questions whether it was a prank by Simon, but Addy doubts it. Nate admits that About That reported his hookups numerous times, but it didn't bother him. The others also deny worrying about appearing on the app. During dinner, Cooper's family chats about Simon's passing, with his younger brother, Lucas, showing great interest. Keely drops by unexpectedly to see Cooper. While she chats with Cooper's mother, he receives a flirtatious text message and assures the sender he'll call them later.

chapter 4

Addy frets about a skin breakout and envies her best friend Keely's attractiveness. She recalls a time when Simon kissed Keely before she started dating Cooper. Addy was under the impression that Simon was involved with Janae, but he began pursuing her friends. Simon's mother requests Jake, who used to be Simon's friend before his jock status in high school, to be a pallbearer at Simon's funeral. Jake tells Addy about a beach trip, causing her to feel uneasy when she learns TJ will be attending. With her mother and her mother's boyfriend out, Jake starts making out with Addy. She agreed to use birth control after her mother insinuated that Jake could leave if she continued to refuse him. Now, she sleeps with Jake whenever he wants. Nate's father has already fallen asleep on the sofa by 8 p.m. Nate's mother, who abandoned them when he was eleven, suffered from bipolar disorder. She was fond of Bronwyn when they used to play together during their primary school days. Nate has turned to dealing drugs, sticking to the less potent ones. After receiving a text from a girl named Amber, he invites her over. Nate then receives a link to a Tumblr post where someone alleges to have killed Simon. The post suggests Simon's severe peanut allergy may have been activated during detention.

chapter 5

Bronwyn spends a cozy Friday night in with her younger sister, Maeve, talking about her potential future at Yale University. Maeve, a leukemia survivor, can't strive as hard as Bronwyn, which motivates Bronwyn to succeed for both of them. Their evening takes a surprising turn when Nate, a classmate, unexpectedly shows up. Despite Bronwyn's unease at his presence, Maeve invites Nate in. Noticing a piano in their home, Nate requests Bronwyn to play a tune, resulting in her losing herself in the music. Nate praises her performance lavishly. Meanwhile, Officer Budapest interrogates Addy, another classmate, about her visit to the nurse's office. Initially, Addy denies going there but later remembers needing Tylenol. The officer discloses that multiple EpiPens, crucial during the alleged incident, were missing from the nurse’s office. Advising Addy to contact him if she recalls anything more, Officer Budapest departs. As Addy prepares to leave with Jake, her boyfriend, she wrestles with a secret she wishes she could share with her sister, Ashton. Jake surprisingly brings along his friend, TJ. Following Jake's suggestion, Addy changes into a tight sweater, after which TJ reassures her that nobody knows about their brief romantic involvement soon after she and Jake got together. This brings Addy some relief.

chapter 6

Cooper delivers a stellar performance during a weekend baseball match despite the fact that Simon’s commemoration is scheduled for the same day. Post-game, a league scout compliments Cooper's enhanced fastball speed, stirring interest. At the memorial, Cooper is taken aback by the presence of Leah Jackson, who once tried to take her life because of Simon. Leah exposes Cooper to a new anonymous Tumblr post that claims responsibility for the EpiPen removal from the nurse’s office. The author hints at being present during detention. Cooper is too consumed by the scout's compliment to fully focus on the principal's speech about Simon. The next afternoon, Nate checks in with his probation officer, Officer Lopez. She's likable, but her insistence on discussing his academic progress irks Nate. Although Officer Lopez empathizes with his recent distractions, she emphasizes his obligation to adhere to his probation conditions. Nate wishes he could share good news but hesitates to tell her about his visit with Bronwyn. He had planned to consume drugs that night but opted to visit Bronwyn. To his surprise, Officer Lopez takes him to Simon’s church funeral. Seeing the heavy police presence, Nate fears a setup. He encounters Simon’s grieving mother who bursts into tears at the sight of him. Post-funeral, a police officer approaches Nate and Officer Lopez.

chapter 7

Post Simon's funeral, Addy is met by Detective Laura Wheeler, inviting her to the Bayview Police station for questioning. While there, Addy learns about some undisclosed content Simon had prepared for his blog, About That. The posts hint at the misdeeds of her and her detention mates; Bronwyn supposedly cheated on tests, Nate trafficked drugs, Cooper consumed steroids and Addy allegedly cheated on Jake. The detective tries to prompt a confession from Addy, suggesting she might be less guilty if they all conspired. Addy rebuffs the idea, attributing her earlier lie to a genuine error. She then reaches out to her sister, Ashton, for a ride home. Concurrently, Cooper is being shown the same material by a Detective Chang. Discovering that his secret is related to steroid use, Cooper denies any involvement in a plot with the others, maintaining their innocence. Despite the detective affirming that the proof doesn't indicate anyone else's involvement, Cooper requests to speak with his parents. His father instructs him to exit the station and to avoid further communication with the police without legal representation. He's informed that the remaining group members are being interrogated and co-operation could change their treatment. Cooper courteously thanks Detective Chang before exiting.

chapter 8

Detective Mendoza's inquiry about Bronwyn is declined by her parents. Despite this, her parents are troubled by Simon's post alleging Bronwyn's cheating. Consumed by guilt, she admits the truth behind the post, shocking her mother who sees it as a possible murder motive. Javier, Bronwyn's father, questions her about any further withheld information. Bronwyn, already dishonest about her dislike for Simon, continues to lie, asserting there's no additional info. Post his interview with Officer Lopez, Nate is driven home. He feels relieved for having removed the drugs from his room earlier, as the police had a search warrant. Officer Lopez cautions him on the risk of being made a scapegoat if found drug-dealing. Nate, while cleaning up after his father and feeding his lizard, considers that Cooper and Addy might blame him, though he doesn’t believe Bronwyn would. Riding his motorcycle to Bronwyn's house, Nate is rebuffed by Javier when he attempts to discuss the post and Simon's demise.

chapter 9

The same Sunday evening, Addy stops by Ashton's place to discuss the case and her past with TJ. Ashton hints that perhaps a part of Addy desires Jake to discover her affair, which Addy swiftly denies. She counters by pointing out the tension in Ashton's marriage with Charlie, but Ashton remains firm, urging Addy to confess to Jake. Eventually, Addy accedes and requests Ashton to accompany her to confront Jake. She then reveals to Jake that she's a suspect in Simon's murder as the latter was about to publicize a hidden secret - her affair with TJ. Addy confesses to sleeping with his friend, TJ, without being able to justify it, and offers an apology. Jake, overwhelmed with fury, orders her out.

chapter 10

Early on October 1, Bronwyn converses with Robin Stafford, a lawyer appointed by her father. Robin discovers Nate attempted to visit Bronwyn, leading to questions about their relationship and advice to keep distance from the other suspects. At school, however, Bronwyn questions Nate about his visit, and he reveals his intention to apologize for a childhood prank. Nate gives Bronwyn one of his burner phones when she requests his number to discuss the ongoing case. Cooper witnesses Jake assaulting TJ in the school locker room, which clarifies Simon's pending post about Addy for him. Trying to comfort Addy, Cooper says, “It’ll be all right,” which she realizes isn't just about the Jake situation. When Cooper's phone rings while Keely and Vanessa are browsing through it, he claims the caller, “Kris,” is a guy friend from baseball. After school, Cooper meets Coach Ruffalo, discussing potential college recruitments. As he leaves, he almost collides with Mr. Avery, who remarks sarcastically about teenagers' phone obsession and gossiping tendency. Cooper speculates if Mr. Avery is under police scrutiny when a text interrupts his thoughts, informing him about his grandmother's hospitalization.

chapter 11

Nate halts his narcotics trade temporarily that night and connects with Bronwyn using the secretive phone he provided her. Both of them are unable to sleep, so they reminisce about their shared past during elementary school. Nate confesses to his drug-dealing activities but denies having any involvement in Simon's death. Bronwyn discloses that the circulating gossip about her cheating on a test is true, leading her to feel deeply embarrassed. Nate, however, insists she shouldn't be bothered by others' opinions. Her primary concern is not letting her father down. The two delve into a discussion about Simon's demise, with Bronwyn expressing her belief in Nate's innocence due to his attempt to aid Simon. Nate's protective nature towards his mother in their childhood resonates with Bronwyn. Nate shares that his mother held a fondness for Bronwyn, but when Bronwyn admits to her past feelings for Nate, he appears distracted. After finishing his call with Bronwyn, Nate extends an invitation to Amber to visit. Addy is reluctant to leave her house on Wednesday, but Ashton manages to get her up and to school. Any attempts to converse with Jake are dismissed. Addy is devastated to discover her locker vandalised with the word "WHORE" and suspects Vanessa, a friend of Keely, as the perpetrator. She spends a good part of the day crying in the restroom. Addy confronts TJ about the rumour involving them, but he denies spreading any news about their encounter. He hints that other people had seen them share a kiss at the beach. Puzzled, Addy questions the extent of Simon's knowledge about her secret. Despite the potential fuel for gossip, TJ proposes that Addy join him for lunch.

chapter 12

Simon's posthumous exposé on the four suspects hits Tumblr on Thursday, also throwing a challenge to his readers to identify his murderer. This leads to another summon for Bronwyn and co by Principal Gupta. During the Principal's absence due to a call, Addy talks about the havoc Simon wreaked with his gossip portal. Bronwyn recalls an incident where she and Leah Jackson had unintentionally given Simon a wrong deadline, resulting in his public humiliation of Leah. This feels personal to Bronwyn as Leah had questioned her intentions, soon after which she attempted to take her own life. On Principal Gupta's return, Cooper makes it clear they don't intend to converse further. That night, during a conversation with Bronwyn, Nate is questioned about his whereabouts when his phone was seized by Mr. Avery. She starts suspecting Addy, Cooper, and possibly even Mr. Avery for Simon's death, and hopes the police would investigate the incident of the planted phones. Bronwyn and Nate decide to have a virtual movie night, just like they did a few times already that week.

chapter 13

Cooper escorts his younger sibling, Lucas, to the hospital to see their ailing grandmother, Nonny, following school on Friday. He enters Nonny's room alone initially. After confirming that her heart attack was nothing serious, Nonny inquires about Simon. Cooper recounts the events, including the latest posts on Tumblr. He reassures his grandmother that he didn't use performance-enhancing drugs and had no involvement in Simon's death, a fact Nonny never doubted. Despite her faith in him, Nonny encourages him to open up, aware of his lack of romantic feelings for Keely. When Cooper remains silent, Nonny asks to see Lucas. Cooper experiences guilt over his secrets and the belief he let Simon down. On the same evening, Nate and Bronwyn decide to watch another film via streaming. Nate proposes she should clandestinely join him at his place to watch together, but Bronwyn refuses. As Bronwyn's burner phone begins to run low on minutes, Nate pledges to supply her with a replacement.

chapter 14

Ashton urges Addy to do something enjoyable unrelated to Jake, suggesting they rent bikes. Addy, instead, probes Ashton about her marriage. Ashton admits that her husband Charlie moved in with his girlfriend after she caught them together. Addy believes Ashton never found happiness in her marriage, but she keeps her thoughts to herself. Ashton interrogates Addy about her visit to the nurse's office. While Ashton doesn't think Addy stole the EpiPens, she's aware Addy lied to the police about the visit and wants to uncover the truth. Overwhelmed, Addy cries. Once she calms down, Ashton takes her bike renting. When Cooper invites Addy to a party, she declines, knowing Jake will be there. She admits to herself that she misses him but not his possessive behavior. Bronwyn feels better after a Saturday morning run and goes to pick up her sister Maeve from the library. She is shocked to find Maeve hacking into About That, viewing Simon’s admin page. The rumor about Cooper using steroids appears to have been added later, and there's an older inaccessible file about him. Maeve explains she saw Simon at the library often and one day bookmarked his admin page when he left it open. Bronwyn questions Maeve’s motives for monitoring Simon. Maeve playfully hints at Bronwyn's affection for Nate and suggests they get the new phone he offered Bronwyn. The party is in full swing by the time Cooper arrives. Jake mocks Cooper about being a murder suspect. When Cooper tries to discuss Addy, Jake reveals his father had cheated on his mother, which is why he can't forgive Addy. Cooper discovers that Simon’s mother invited Jake and others to take a keepsake from Simon’s room. He also learns about a newspaper article naming him and the others as suspects in Simon's murder.

chapter 15

News vans crowd the school as Monday classes end, with journalists keen to question students about Nate and the remaining suspects. Nate proposes to help Bronwyn evade the media frenzy by escorting her off campus on his motorcycle. Their destination is a rendezvous with Maeve, who will drive Bronwyn home. As they wait, Bronwyn advises Nate to secure a lawyer and even volunteers to contact a group offering free legal assistance, known as “Until Proven”. Nate’s anger surges at the proposition, seeing himself as Bronwyn's new charity case. Just as Maeve arrives to defuse their heated conversation, Nate storms away. Bronwyn races after him, gives him a peck on the cheek, and quickly apologizes before disappearing. In contrast, Cooper and Addy couldn't avoid the relentless paparazzi. However, the media circus had disappeared by morning. Accustomed to the constant attention of her classmates, Addy witnesses Simon's friend Janae, distressed in the restroom. Addy extends help to Janae, offering to help her wipe away her tears. Janae rejects the offer, pointing out the differences in their popularity. Addy informs her that her popularity stemmed from dating Jake and promises to be a confidant to Janae. When Bronwyn later invites Addy to lunch, Addy is taken aback but eventually agrees. After school, she takes her new bike, a gift from Ashton, for a spin to the hair salon. Despite her long, blonde hair always being her favorite feature, Addy requests the stylist to cut it off.

chapter 16

Bronwyn anticipates a TV feature regarding Simon’s murder and the pursuit of his killers, the so-called “Bayview Four,” who all declined to give statements to the program makers. Javier, Bronwyn's father, is distressed by the media attention on his family. Bronwyn’s sister Maeve shows her an online thread discussing a recent school shooting, where Simon's comments seemingly approved of the shooter, which could have upset students from that school. Maeve is trying to decode Simon's file on Cooper. The show host Mikhail Powers presents a portion dedicated to each suspect. A lawyer from Until Proven offers some compelling arguments around motive and access to Simon’s site. Bronwyn contemplates reaching out to the young lawyer, Eli Kleinfelter, a thought she shares with Nate. His lukewarm response makes her question his interest in her. Despite this, Nate proposes a late-night visit, leaving Bronwyn unsure about his intentions. Cooper ends his relationship with Keely, leaving her to assume it's to keep her away from the inquiry. Another post on Tumblr suggests clues about the Bayview Four in old blog posts, making Cooper anxious. He assures Keely the investigation isn't behind their breakup, but she gets frustrated by his impassive demeanor. She admits to kissing Nate before they got together and accuses Cooper of feigning his feelings for her and using steroids. Cooper denies the steroid accusations and ignores her doubts about his feelings, confirming Keely's belief that he doesn't truly care for her. Cooper takes his leave, regretting his inability to apologize the way Keely deserved.

chapter 17

During a science class, Addy gets partnered with TJ. He confesses his liking for her when she's not around Jake, hinting that Jake's presence makes her retreat into herself. This revelation surprises Addy. Once the class ends, Jake initiates a conversation with Addy, and they decide to continue their discussion later. Post school, Nate and Bronwyn go for a walk in the woods. Bronwyn shares with Nate that she reached out to Eli, the lawyer working for free, and fills him in on the details of their discussion. Bronwyn tells Nate about Eli's intention to delve into Simon's history and the other narratives from About That. She adds how Eli believes that Mr. Avery had the best chance to poison Simon. Furthermore, Eli intends to investigate the car accident that could potentially be a diversion plan. Nate feels uncomfortable, seeing himself as one of Bronwyn's projects. He dismisses Bronwyn and Eli's theories, humorously suggesting that Bronwyn could've planned Simon's murder given her intelligence. They get interrupted with news that the police want to interrogate Bronwyn again. Nate and Bronwyn decide that Maeve will fetch Bronwyn from Nate's place to avoid being spotted together. Nate is reluctant for Bronwyn to see his living conditions, yet he holds her hand as they ascend through the untrimmed grass. To Nate's shock, his mother, who Nate claimed was dead, is waiting at the entrance.

chapter 18

Bronwyn leaves abruptly without probing into the unexpected appearance of Nate's mother, leaving with her sister Maeve. She is left questioning whether Nate's claim about his mother's death was a lie. At the police station, Bronwyn is met by her lawyer, Robin Stafford, and her parents. The police have found an old post where Simon ridiculed "MR" at her first high school party, even making jokes about her cancer. Strangely, a death threat against Simon featured in the comments from Bronwyn's email address. Instead of staying home, Addy decides to meet Jake, curious about his intentions. To avoid discussing the ongoing investigation, she distracts him with a made-up story. Jake's annoyance prompts her to ask why he wanted to meet. He complains about the constant media harassment without knowing the full story. Addy doesn't respond, realizing that Jake doesn't want reconciliation. She decides she's done apologizing, leaving his house feeling liberated for the first time in a long time. After a workout session with Luis, his friend offers to switch cars to help Cooper avoid media scrutiny. Instead of heading home, Cooper drives to an apartment building. Kris, surprised by Cooper's visit, answers the door. Cooper's intention is to discuss Simon, but he's pulled into a passionate kiss by Kris.

chapter 19

Nate contemplates how to discuss his mother's drug addiction and abandonment with Bronwyn. Instead of dealing with the harsh truth, he had previously told everyone she was dead. After his mom mentions encountering Bronwyn, he escapes his feelings by taking a long motorcycle ride. He arrives back in time for a party, where a girl named Mallory, who recognizes him from a Mikhail Powers special, accuses Bronwyn of Simon's murder. Mallory tries to give Nate drugs, which he refuses. He's grateful when Bronwyn calls asking to chat. Late in the night, Bronwyn secretly brings Nate to her home, unwilling to breach her parents' trust but needing clarity. She questions Nate about his silence regarding his mother. He confesses that it was simpler to lie as he never thought she'd return. Bronwyn accepts his explanation when Nate assures her there are no more lies. They discuss the potential of a romantic relationship. Despite the difficulties, Bronwyn is willing to commit and discloses her desire to kiss Nate, which is reciprocated. They kiss, but Bronwyn is caught off guard when Nate doesn't press for more. Instead, he proposes they watch a film.

chapter 20

Cooper contemplates revealing his secret about Kris to his dad, who already feels guilty for Cooper's murder suspect status. The plan for Cooper to hide his pitching speed to later surprise baseball scouts was his father's idea, but it backfired when it inspired steroid rumors, setting up Cooper as a possible killer in Simon's murder. Cooper also feared Simon discovering his homosexuality, given Simon's skill in unearthing deep secrets. Cooper was particularly terrified that Simon, possibly gay himself, could out him. Fearing this, Cooper persuaded popular girl Vanessa to exclude Simon from parties, a decision he now regrets. Nate agrees to have dinner with his estranged mother on a Tuesday night. At the diner, he questions his mother's ability to pay for their meal, hurting her feelings but also acknowledging her past instability. She informs him that she has a job with a doctor who helped her during rehab. She attempts to discuss the murder investigation, Bronwyn, and the Mikhail Powers special, but Nate isn't ready to let go of her three years of absence. Nate hastily leaves the diner when Mikhail Powers approaches him for an interview, leaving his mother to handle Powers and his team on her own.

chapter 21

While having lunch, Addy advises Bronwyn on nail care as Maeve teases her for trying to impress. Cooper joins them as Maeve shares her intentions of revealing Simon's old, disturbing posts about a school shooting to a contact, Mikhail Powers. Janae defends Simon, questioning Maeve's sources, confusing Bronwyn as to why she is there. Addy finds herself in better shape while doing laps in gym class, thanks to cycling. However, Addy trips and Vanesa calls her a “slut” quietly. The instructor sends her to the nurse's office, but she opts to clean up in the showers. Janae assists in tending to her wounds, defending Simon once more, insisting he never would have wanted Addy to be a victim of bullying. Later, Janae invites Addy to hang out and they discuss the changes in their lives at Addy's place. Janae unexpectedly leaves as Addy fetches her a drink. After sharing the odd encounter with Bronwyn via text, Bronwyn cautions Addy about trusting Janae.

chapter 22

Cooper receives a summon to the police station where he meets his lawyer, Mary, and Detective Chang. Detective Chang reveals that they have decoded Simon's post, which suggests a left-handed pitcher, “CC,” has been unfaithful to his girlfriend with another man. Cooper is clearly the person implied. The police suspect that someone attempted to delete this post after Simon's death and have a warrant to search Cooper's house. Cooper regrets not sharing his relationship with Kris with his family earlier. Mary instructs the cops to keep Cooper's sexuality private, but Cooper feels it's inevitable that his secret will be exposed. On their way home, his father insists on knowing the new evidence. Cooper calls his mother and Lucas over, and confesses to them that Simon had indeed found a secret about him, but it was not related to steroids as they might have thought. He admits to his family that he is gay.

chapter 23

Cooper confides in Addy the following day about Simon’s coded post and his own homosexuality, expressing his fear of becoming a prime suspect in Simon's death. Addy informs him that Bronwyn too is increasingly being investigated due to Simon's leak about Maeve. They agree it's time for the Bayview Four to convene and discuss. During lunch, Cooper becomes the target of homophobic bullying, which Nate attempts to counteract. Bronwyn redirects the attention by passionately kissing Nate, creating a new topic of gossip. Cooper’s friend Luis joins them, providing a sense of relief to Addy. She appreciates Cooper's supportive friend, contrasting her own lack of companionship during such challenging times.

chapter 24

Late on Thursday, Nate and Bronwyn meet at an unfinished building site, where they share a kiss before Addy and Cooper join them. They discuss the information they've gathered on Simon, including his rejection by Keely. Both Nate and Cooper have past connections to Keely, though they all dismiss her as a murder suspect, instead indicating that she might be a common link. They consider other potential suspects like Leah Jackson and Janae. Cooper suggests his friend Luis could help investigate the car accident outside the school. Nate finds himself caring for his fellow suspects and trusting in their innocence. On Friday night, Bronwyn's family tunes in to another episode of the Mikhail Powers special. The host criticizes the police's handling of Cooper's rights and calls out for more focus on Mr. Avery. Interviews with Leah Jackson and other students affected by Simon's app are aired, as well as details about Simon's provocative posts following a school shooting that Maeve shared. The public begins to doubt the guilt of the Bayview Four after the episode, and their lives start to regain some normality. Bronwyn and Nate discuss their potential future after the investigation, but their hope is shattered when Bronwyn is woken up by Maeve with news of Nate's arrest for Simon's murder.

chapter 25

Bronwyn reaches out to Eli Kleinfelter, insisting on Nate's innocence and pleading for him to represent Nate. She mentions Nate's difficult family past to sway Eli. Once he agrees to converse with Nate’s parents, Bronwyn seeks out Nate’s mother to inform her. Addy proposes a night in with her, Ashton, Bronwyn, and Maeve. Upon their return home, they are met with a swarm of media. When questioned about Nate by her mother, Bronwyn confesses to their relationship, even though she was warned against involvement with another suspect. Nate’s mom later contacts Bronwyn. On the same day, Cooper is caught off guard by a journalist revealing Nate’s arrest post his triumphant game. He refuses to accept Nate as Simon’s killer. He attempts to chat with his dad, who only comments on his “choice” attracting media attention. At home, his grandmother Nonny suggests inviting Kris for dinner. Before he can reply, he receives a call from Bronwyn. She seeks an update on the car crash incident investigation, reminding him of his promise to enlist his friend Luis's help. With his prime suspect status lifted, Cooper is less inclined to follow through, but assures Bronwyn he will consult Luis.

chapter 26

Bronwyn, accompanied by her mom, meets Nate's mom at Eli's office. She learns that an anonymous tip led to Nate's arrest after EpiPens and Simon's personal belongings were discovered in his locker; his room also had a laptop with all the Tumblr posts. Eli is glad that Nate's fingerprints aren't present on these items and decides to represent Nate. When Bronwyn tries to give additional information, Eli stops her to avoid professional misconduct. Unexpectedly, TJ shows up during Addy's family dinner on Monday, offering to help her with studies. Addy's mom is upset when Addy rejects TJ, stating Addy should be grateful for any male attention. Bronwyn extends an invitation to Addy to come over where she finds Cooper too. Bronwyn requests Addy and Cooper's help in proving Nate's innocence. Along with Maeve, they start analyzing recent Tumblr posts from someone claiming to be Simon's killer. A statement about Detective Wheeler eating doughnuts triggers Addy to remember it's a lie she told Jake.

chapter 27

That night, Bronwyn forwards the Tumblr post regarding the doughnuts to Nate's mom, who cautions her not to get involved. Bronwyn, Maeve, and Addy gather their knowledge about Jake and his relationship with Simon. Cooper pitches in, providing the car owner's name that Luis found out. Addy wonders if Jake was envious of her bond with Cooper, yet can't reason why Jake would implicate Nate and Bronwyn. Bronwyn pays a visit to the car owner's residence. The car owner, Sam Barron, confesses that Simon offered him a grand to fake the car accident.

chapter 28

Cooper and Kris join Addy, Ashton, Bronwyn, and Maeve at a café, though Cooper still feels awkward about their public relationship. Bronwyn reveals Sam Barron's confession to the group and they discuss their findings about Jake. When Eli Kleinfelter, a lawyer whose office is upstairs, enters the café, he reminds Bronwyn he cannot discuss Nate's case with them, but Ashton can talk to him. Ashton hands over an envelope containing Barron's confession and contact details. Eli reveals that Barron confessed he was paid by Simon to fake an accident. Kris proposes that if the Bayview Four and Mr. Avery are ruled out, Simon and Jake are the only possible culprits. The suggestion that Jake sought revenge on Addy for her infidelity distresses her, prompting Ashton to take her home. Bronwyn and Maeve also leave, leaving Cooper and Kris alone to share a passionate kiss and exit hand in hand. Meanwhile, Nate is grappling with his reality in prison, trying not to miss Bronwyn. He convinces himself that she's better off without him.

chapter 29

When Addy remembers that Jake had her backpack the day she was detained, she wonders if he could have planted a phone. Coinciding with this realization, she notes the absence of Janae, a fellow student, from school. Alongside Cooper, Addy visits Janae's home, where they find her visibly unsettled. Rather than follow Bronwyn's advice of asking cautious questions, Addy embraces Janae, who starts crying. Janae hands over a stack of papers upon being questioned about Simon's death, revealing his manifesto. Simon, who had been battling depression, sought revenge from his classmates who overlooked him. He used his app to implicate those he considered threats, namely Bronwyn, Nate, and Cooper. Each of them had somehow belittled or hurt him in the past. When Jake found out that Simon manipulated the junior prom court votes, he also became a part of Simon's scheme. Simon leveraged Jake's knowledge about Addy and TJ's affair to get his assistance, not caring about Jake's potential downfall. Despite Jake's threats to Janae about involving her in the ordeal, Janae plants the evidence in Nate's locker and home, tipping off police. Alerted by Cooper's text that Jake is at Janae's house, Addy records their conversation. On his arrival, Jake dismisses Janae's plea to give up Simon's plot, ensuring her there's no trace leading back to him. However, Addy's ringing phone gives her away, leading to a chase that ends with Jake catching her. In the ensuing struggle, Addy hits her head and Jake starts to suffocate her. Cooper comes to her rescue just as she's about to lose consciousness, and an ambulance is promptly called.

chapter 30

Nate finds it difficult to accept he's been freed due to Addy, a popular girl, who braved an assault from her murderous former boyfriend to clear his name. He is grateful to Bronwyn and the rest of the "murder club" who rallied to his defense. Despite his feelings for Bronwyn, he can't imagine a future with her. The media continues to hound Cooper and Kris, with Eli also attracting attention. Cooper is confused and hurt by the realization that his friend Jake is involved in Simon's deceit and was Addy's attacker. Cooper apologizes to Keely for her unintentional involvement in Simon's dark plans. His father is now hopeful about his baseball career, but remains indifferent towards Kris. Cooper, however, remains optimistic about his father's attitude changing. Addy, recovering from her injuries, feels sorry for Simon but still wishes she had never crossed paths with him. While visiting her in the hospital, Nate's sense of unworthiness, which she identifies in herself as well, worries her. She disregards her mother's bleak outlook on her romantic prospects and seeks relationship advice from her sister Ashton, who seems to be enjoying Eli's attention. Ashton invites Addy to move in with her, offering them both a fresh start. Bronwyn, during an interview with Mikhail Powers, expresses remorse for cheating on a test, vowing never to repeat such a mistake. Nate avoids Bronwyn, but finally allows her to visit him. He thanks her for her help but suggests they return to their pre-relationship lives. He believes their lives are heading in divergent paths as Bronwyn is on the verge of attending an Ivy League college. At home, Maeve tries to uplift Bronwyn by showing her a note from Yale's admissions office, indicating they still anticipate her application despite the incident.

epilogue

By the middle of February, Bronwyn starts dating Evan Neiman, her long-standing love interest. Despite being a balanced couple, there is a lack of deeper emotional attachment between them. Bronwyn is awaiting her admission decision from Yale but contemplates staying local and collaborating with Until Proven. After a recital, Bronwyn meets her friends, including Addy, Ashton, Eli, Cooper, and Kris. Addy appears distracted, but dismisses Bronwyn's concerns. Maeve departs, leaving Bronwyn alone when Nate shows up. Nate compliments Bronwyn's performance, calling it the best he's ever heard, contrary to his earlier opinion. He reveals that he'd been conversing with Addy who insisted he owed Bronwyn an explanation. She expresses her pain over Nate's past rejection. Nate shares his fear of damaging Bronwyn and thanks her for her unwavering faith in him. They decide to reconcile their relationship. Bronwyn's family picks her up, leaving the scene with a cheerful grin on her face.

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