16. Closer Than Ever

CLOSER THAN EVER 16 The art room door flew open. Principal Winik burst inside, followed by Mr. Nekobi. "What was that noise?" Principal Winik asked. He eyed the paint dripping from the walls and the machine parts scattered across the floor. "What happened here?"

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Sam didn't know what to say. Thankfully, Mr. Nekobi did. "The floor-cleaning machine was very old. We will get this mess cleaned up. Don't worry." "Fine," Principal Winik said. Sam flashed a relieved smile at Lucy and Antonio. What would we do without Mr. Nekobi? Sam thought. Principal Winik turned to Jasper Eerie. Jasper's face was colorless. "You don't look well," Principal Winik said. "I can't have you missing school, too! Let's go see the school nurse."

Principal Winik hurried into the hall. At the doorway, Jasper stopped. He turned to Sam, Lucy, and Antonio. "I'm afraid I'm going to disappoint your principal— and you," Jasper said. "I won't be back tomorrow. I won't be back here ever again..."

"But you have to help us!" Sam exclaimed. "I will try," Jasper replied. "I will keep studying my great-great-grandfather's papers. And you are welcome to explore my house anytime. Who knows what secrets it holds... But I can't return here. You three are far braver than I am." Antonio grinned. "Aww, shucks. Us?" he said with a laugh. Lucy laughed, too. "You're the one who has to sleep in that creepy house, Mr. Eerie. You're plenty brave." He nodded gently and gave Sam one final look.

Then he was gone. "Now let's get this room cleaned up," Mr. Nekobi said, handing out mops. "Tomorrow is another day." "But we were so close..." Sam said. Antonio slapped Sam on the back. "And that's a good thing!"