Answer:

pretext

Answer	Crossword Clue
PRETEXT	Ostensible excuse
PRETEXT	It's not the real reason
PRETEXT	Concocted reason

PRETEXT	Excuse
PRETEXT	Trumped-up excuse
PRETEXT	Subterfuge
PRETEXT	Excuse.
PRETEXT	Excuse to cloak one's real intention.
PRETEXT	Flimsy excuse.
PRETEXT	Alleged motive.
PRETEXT	Stalking-horse

PRETEXT	Fictitious reason
PRETEXT	Stated motive