Page 36 of I Think He Knows?

“That’s amazing,” I say.

“Anyway, how are things with Cam?” she asks. “Hopefully you have good reason for being late…” There’s a gleam in her eye.

“Cam and Lilly used to be engaged,” I blurt out.

Her jaw drops open.

“What? When? Did he just tell you?”

“Yes. It was before he came to Eastern Lake.”

“Um—”

“Anyway, I don’t have time to tell you everything,” I say. “But just don’t bring it up—unless he does.”

“No, of course. I promise.”

“Thanks, we should get back out there,” I say. “Just enjoy the evening getting to know Leo.”

“Okay,” she says. “And you enjoy spending time with Cam. You’re finally together. And the past doesn’t matter now—it was years ago.”

“Thanks,” I say. “I know.”

“You’re welcome,” she says, putting her hands on my shoulders. “Now let’s get back out there.”

Chapter Nine

Jess and I walk out of the restroom and find Cam and Leo seated across from each other in a large booth. Jess happily plops down next to Leo while I slide in next to Cam.

The server shows up immediately, and we order drinks and a calamari appetizer. I’m in need of a glass of wine tonight. Truthfully indulging in a drink two nights in a row isn’t my norm, but after the events of the day, I think I’ve earned it.

“So, how long have you been a teacher?” Leo asks Jess. I’m thrilled he’s taking interest in her and even more happy no one is asking me any questions since there are so many thoughts swirling in my brain. Jess happily answers his question while Cam and I listen. This might be the first time things have ever been awkward between us. Normally our conversations are so natural and effortless, but there’s a different vibe between us tonight. Hopefully it’s only temporary.

“I have so much respect for all of you,” Leo says. “It takes a special kind of person to be a teacher. I could never do it.”

“Serena and I were just saying we couldn’t imagine doing anything else, right?” Cam asks.

“Yes. I love it.” I pause. “Although I’ve had second thoughts following a few isolated instances.”

“More than a few for me,” Jess exclaims. “The first time a kid vomits all over your shoes, you begin to question your life choices.”

“Stop—really?” Leo asks, cringing.

“It’s the unofficial inauguration,” I tell him. “That’s when you know you’ve made it.”

Leo shakes his head in disbelief.

“And I play sports all day,” Cam says. “It beats sitting in an office—I’d be so bored. Teaching is a sweet gig.”

“That would be nice,” Leo agrees. “I’ve heard kids are actually easier to deal with than adults.”

Jess, Cam, and I all nod in agreement.

When Jess asks Leo about his job, Cam leans in to whisper in my ear. “Are you okay?”

His warm breath tickles my neck, and I can’t ignore the fact that he smells amazing. Learning about his past relationship with Lilly doesn’t erase my feelings for him.

“Yes.”

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