Page 84 of The Silent Note

“You realize… no one punished you when Jinx insinuated you might be sleeping with a student, but now people are dropping out because you did the right thing and exposed Harris. It’s totally screwed up.”

“Y-yeah.” I fall against my desk, staring dazedly into the distance. “It does explain why my classes are so empty.” I hug myself. “Imagine what happens when I blow the whistle on The Grateful Project?”

Sloane looks concerned.

My phone buzzes on the desk.

I fly toward it and check the message.

Disappointment sinks in hard and I shut it off roughly.

“Who was that?”

“The Vice Principal is having a staff meeting after school. Attendance is mandatory.”

“Zane still hasn’t called?”

“No,” I mumble, glaring at the hallway.

A sly smile spreads over Sloane’s face.“You miss him.”

I frown at her. “I need an update on Slavno’s clue. I’m restless as it is.”

“Nope. You just want to talk to him.”

I gather my books. “If you think I miss him so much, why don’t you fly around and see what he’s doing? Be a useful ghost for once.”

“Ouch. Hey, I know you want to see your husband, but don’t take it out on me. I’m an innocent bystander. Also, still not a ghost.”

“Goodbye, Sloane.”

My phone buzzes again.

This time, I make sure not to look too excited when I check, but it’s not a message from Zane. Instead it’s from the Vice Principal.

VP: Miss Jamieson, can I see you in my office? It’s urgent.

Jinx: Who says queens have to be flawless?

Sexy Teach made her return to Redwood, but it was nothing close to triumphant. Instead of flowers, the people threw rocks. Maybe that’s why she has a jagged scar on her face?

No one likes a traitor, but I do.

What other delicious secrets will you serve for us, Sexy Teach? I’m ready and waiting…

Until the next time, keep your enemies close and your secrets even closer.

Jinx

Chapter Twenty

GREY

The last person I expect to see in Harris’s old office, sitting next to Vice Principal Vincent is mom. She’s got a cup of warm tea in front of her, untouched.

Her eyes flash to mine, and I shiver.

She’s got her war paint on. The full glam effect. Fake lashes. A touch of blush. Bold red lipstick.