Tom knew he would be in trouble if Fuller found out, but the following week he returned to Woodsboro and made his way to the newly restored computer lab. He looked hopefully around the room, searching for Alex. When he saw Eddie and Sandman, he gave them a shy wave. Both boys blanked him, returning their attention back to the screens.
"Hey," Tom said. "How's it going?"
They ignored him.
"Come on guys," Tom pleaded. "I was just doing my job."
"And now you've done it," Eddie said. "So you can get the hell out of here."
It was useless arguing with them, Tom realised. If they did not want to talk to him, he could not make them. But he had one final question.
"Where's Alex?"
"No-show," Sandman replied.
Tom's heart sank. Had he made any difference in these kids' lives? Had it all been a waste?
Just as he reached the door, he heard Eddie call after him.
"Yeah?" He said, turning back.
Eddie and Sandman looked at him for a moment, then Sandman said; "You really don't know much about computers."
Tom let out a weary sigh, and admitted; "You're not kidding. But you guys; you're like pros!"
"It's our thing," Eddie replied, the slightest hint of his cartoon-smile, showing on his lips.