In my opinion, as a professional who has had to hire and fire staff, as well as intervening in feuds, inappropriate sex/romance and just plain unprofessional conduct ... you were both wrong. She started it. You wouldn't let it go. You added fuel to the fire. Egads, it's fairly clear that someone who stalks you for five months, tries to grab and kiss you, then gives you the cold shoulder is someone to be avoided. Doesn't matter if the stalker is male or female, younger or older. It's a situation fraught with danger.

So, I have to ask ... is that what you were looking for?

Something is going on with you ... maybe you're lonely, maybe it's a mid-life crisis, maybe you're having confusing sexual/romantic stirrings that you don't know how to deal with. It would be good to do some serious soul-searching to make sure you don't impulsively make a career and/or marriage ending blunder due to your unresolved needs and wants.

I strongly suggest you look for a therapist specializing in women's issues. You're at an age where many women look back on their marriages and lives and feel much regret that can lead them to make impulsively self-destructive choices. It's okay to want change and excitement. Maybe a therapist can help you find it in a way that improves your life instead of creating a big embarrassing chaotic mess.

I mean, having to explain the whole episode to the VPrincipal had to be seriously embarrassing. No matter what happens with the young teacher, it's time for you to figure out what's going on with you.

I wish you the best of luck and do hope you'll find an understanding therapist to help you explore this. Age 48, with the kids grown, is a time of change and transformation. I hope you negotiate this passage wisely. And have an excellent time doing it, too, in professionally and maritally appropriate ways that lift you up instead of pushing you down.

I have the strongest urge to say something like, "May the Force be with you," or "Live Long and Prosper, " or maybe "Party On, Dude and Be Excellent to Each Other." Anyway ... you get the point. Best wishes from someone who made it to the other side of that particular transition in one piece and happier than ever.