I swept the students' reports and the portfolio into my backpack, except for the page with Melinda's details, and wanted to make a dash for the door when I heard Crath from across the room.

"Maybe you should come and join us, the boys, for a drink sometime. Your old man used to hang out with us but he thinks I'm mad at him for not returning my money. If you see him, tell him it's fine. I don't need it.'

I looked around the room and saw Mrs Ismelle, Bale's secretary, and ...