Finish the video, try to continue teaching and leave Abigail alone

There’s no point pressing Abigail. If she wants to talk to someone, she can talk to someone. That someone is unlikely to be you.

“Everyone, pay attention to the video,” you tell the girls. “Silence.” You have to shout that several times before the girls obey. The lure of gossip is strong. Returning to the previous attitude is impossible.

When the video ends there’s still fifteen minutes of the class left. It’s clear Abigail’s not coming back. You try to get them to discuss what they’ve seen, but they’re easily distracted and not interested. No workable discussion is forthcoming. And it’s not like you know enough about the subject to get them started. A couple of minutes prodding and all you’ve got is a headache. You have to let them go.

You look back at Abigail’s office door. You could knock? But how would that help?

No, if Abigail wants solitude, it’s best to give it to her. You return to your classroom. You have a lesson to give soon, anyway.