Chapter 28

Jake and Mr Moody collapsed onto the law, gasping for breath.

“I’ll bet you’re thirsty now,” said Natalie.

“Too true,” said Jake. He pulled himself to his feet and staggered across to the table. He grabbed a glass of cordial and drank deeply, before began to notice its sour taste. Then he spat it out onto the grass.

“So, you still don’t have a sweet tooth?” said Natalie. “You must believe by now. The Tooth Fairy and the Easter Bunny have both put spells on you. Are you two ready to admit they are real?”

“Of course not,” said Jake. “It’s stupid.”

“He’s stubborn isn’t he?” said Natalie to the rabbit.”

“Stop pretending you’re talking to somebody,” said Jake in exasperation.

“She’s not pretending,” said Dobbin.

This made Mr Moody extremely angry. “Shut up,” he shouted. “Shut up you, you ... hobgoblin!!!”

For some unknown reason that made Dobbin angry. “That’s not fair,” he said. “I know I’m not pretty, but I’m certainly not as ugly as a hobgoblin.”

“How would you know?” snarled Mr Moody

Dobbin frowned. “I have no idea,” he confessed. “It was just something that came into my head. You don’t think I’m regaining my memory do you?”

“Oh, I’ve had enough,” said Mr Moody. “Come on Jake; let’s get on with the job.” He held out his hand, “the files please.”

“I’ll make you hop again,” warned Natalie. “I’ll make you hop as high as the trees, and twice as fast as before.”

But Mr Moody was not going to take any more. “Do your worst,” said. “There is no such thing as a magic spell. You have simply hypnotised us and eventually the trance will wear off, so make us hop all you will my dear. The USB please, Jake.”

But Jake was not so sure. “But what if she’s right?” he asked.

“Don’t weaken boy,” said Mr Moody firmly. “Don’t fall for her tricks. Do you believe in Santa Claus?”

“Of course not,” said Jake indignantly..

“Then, the USB please.”

Jake took the stick from his pocket and held it out. It was then that the Tooth Fairy zapped them again.