The car alarm is still blaring, and Mr Harrington has finally appeared to switch it off. We duck down as he looks around for the culprit. The last thing we want is for him to think we’re somehow responsible. He’s never liked me and Chase, but then he doesn’t really seem to like anyone. Unless your parents are exceptionally rich, of course, and then suddenly you’re his favourite.

‘Anyway –’ Chase looks at his watch – ‘you better get ready. Madzikanda will be calling for team captains soon. We need to be there. Bec’s gonna put herself forward …’

I groan. He’s talking about the big game of Capture the Flag that always takes place on the last day of school. It’s really just to distract us while an events company decorates the hall for prom, but at Oakbrook tradition is tradition, and everyone takes it way too seriously.

‘Maybe I could skip it? It’s not like I’ll be any help anyway.’

‘No, you can’t skip it.’ He throws me some side-eye. ‘We’re making memories, remember? Besides, imagine how turned on Cameron will be, seeing you getting all sporty.’

‘You think so?’ I say, trying not to sound too excited.

‘I know so,’ Chase says with a little wink. ‘One way or another, you’re gonna score today, Zach. I just have a feeling.’

There’s a buzz of excitement in the air as Chase and I step out of the east wing and stroll round to the front of the school. There’s a bunch of students lazing on the perfectly manicured lawn, soaking up the sunshine before they head inside for lunch. Excited conversation fills the air and everyone is talking about the big game. Everyone wants to prove that their house is the best.

In the east wing, we represent Sycamore, while over on the west side they represent Hawthorn. The only prize is seeing the hall decorated in your house colours for prom. Blue and white for Sycamore, red and gold for Hawthorn. A game of Capture the Flag might not seem like much, but it’s a big deal for a lot of the legacy kids who so desperately want to do their families proud by following in their parents’ footsteps.