She and Charlie were sitting on a two-tier bench inside the gym. It had been almost three weeks since he had found the stash of jewels, and ever since he had told her about it, she hadn’t stopped accusing Jacob of being a jewel thief. ‘We’d be doing the community a great service. It’s not as if he’s going to miss one jewel.’ ‘No.’ Charlie’s voice was firm. ‘Just forget I ever mentioned it.’ ‘I could try. I mean, it’s going to be hard, and I can’t guarantee the information won’t accidentally slip out, what with my mouth.’ She leaned closer to him. ‘As a loyal friend, though, I’ll forget everything you’ve said. But, I’m going to need something in return.’ Charlie looked at her, stunned. ‘Are you seriously blackmailing –?’ A whistle blew. ‘Blake. Dench.’ It was Coach Finley, standing in the middle of the room with his arms crossed, surrounded by students. ‘Shall I make you two a cup of tea while I wait?’ Some of the students sniggered.
