‘A maker space is like a big workshop that’s open to anyone. This one is called Maker’s Yard. They have tools and workbenches. Everything from hammers and chisels, to fancy stuff like laser cutters, oscilloscopes and 3D printers. Some people rock up and work on their own projects, like making robots, automatic garden sprinklers, or whatever. They also have classes. There’s an eco-thing, where a guy teaches people how to fix broken electrical goods rather than tossing everything in landfill.

‘There are also more advanced classes. A practical robotics class taught by some retired UNLV professor, and this woman who teaches coding to seniors. If you got involved in something like that, it could be the difference between being a regular underprivileged brat going for a college scholarship and someone who stands out for doing some interesting projects.’

Charlie smiled. ‘Besides making explosives …’

Harry laughed. ‘If your hangover isn’t too terrible, I thought we could drive up there.’

‘I’ll live,’ Charlie said, her face brightening. ‘Do you have to pay to join?’

‘Only twenty bucks if you’re in full time education. The classes are free, but you must provide materials, like computer boards, or whatever.’

Charlie nodded. ‘It’s cool knowing I’ve got you looking out for me.’

‘It’s in this ritzy gated community called Swallow Park. It’s also got a café-restaurant type place, run by a chef who used to work with my mum. I had an email when they first opened, offering me a free lunch.’

Charlie laughed, leaning across her bed to plug the laptop charger. ‘Look at Mr Vegas with all his connections.’

As the laptop booted, she hopped up and gave Harry a peck on the cheek. ‘I can’t believe we’re hanging out, like two normal humans …’

She laid chest down on the bed as the laptop booted for the first time, flicking black-soled feet in the air and giving him a smile that made Harry feel like he was floating.

19 MANSPLAINING

Life had been slow at White Boulder. Lessons, free association, meals. Locked up with your cellmate by seven thirty and the electronic bolt releasing eleven hours later. Outside news and minor rebellions were the only thing to crack monotony.

Now Charlie’s life was gaining speed. Hanging with Harry. New laptop, new clothes, new friends, new place to live. Last night I had my first kiss and let a guy feel me up. Drank too much, took idiotic risks. Never again. And on Monday a new school. And this damned menu. I don’t know what half of this stuff is …

The restaurant’s setting was beautiful. A table with a view over reed beds, swans gliding on a lake and rich folks’ houses beyond.

‘Walnut and olive bread,’ the waitress said, her voice muffled by an anti-viral mask.

Vinyl-gloved hands set down the bread bowl and a compartmented dish, filled with vinegar, olive oil and pâté.