Page 59 of I Think He Knows?

“Of course,” she exclaims. “I know how frustrating it’s been to be patient and how you’ve thought several times about moving on. But there’s also a reason you didn’t give up. Deep down you know he’s worth it.”

Feeling the way I did last night when I was with him is worth it.

“So as your best friend, I’m telling you not to let Lilly get in your head,” she orders. “And it sounds like she’s trying her best to do so.”

“Okay,” I say.

“Good.”

“And now I’m texting your boyfriend to remind him to get you something nice for your birthday,” I tell her.

She laughs. “Thank you.”

As soon as Eliza and I are off the phone, I send Mason a text.

I told Eliza I was going to text you and remind you about her birthday. You better get her something nice.

My phone buzzes after a few seconds.

Thanks for the reminder.

I feel better after talking to Eliza. I need to focus on Cam and me, without the distractions or roadblocks. I didn’t get this far by giving up on him, and I’m not going to start now.

I’m drinking coffee and working on my student projects when my phone buzzes.

I hope you’re having a good day. I’m golfing with Leo and friends, and I’m losing.

A broad smile spreads across my face.

Have fun. I’m drinking coffee in my pajamas and working.

Admittedly I’m ecstatic Cam texted this morning. I wasn’t sure if I’d hear from him so soon after last night.

The coffee and pajamas sound good. But it’s the weekend, you deserve a day off.

He’s right, but duty calls.

I’ll take a day off after celebrating our school.

I consider saying something about us enjoying a day off together, but my phone buzzes again.

Good idea. Leo is staring at me. Talk later.

I smile as I respond.

Good luck with your game.

Eliza was right. It doesn’t matter what Lilly says or does. Cam is making his feelings very clear.

* * *

Oversleeping is the worst thing you can do as a teacher, especially during a week as busy as this one. Somehow, I turned off my alarm this morning, so I’m completely frazzled as I rush to get ready and be to work on time. By the time I get there, some of the busses have already arrived, which means many of my students will already be sitting outside my dark classroom.

I hurry down the hall toward my room and groan silently when I see Lilly talking to my students who are lined up outside the door.

Ugh. Why? Why is she here? I’m sure there’s something else she could be doing, especially during school arrival. Has she proclaimed herself my own personal supervisor?

Today she’s wearing an olive-green belted dress with brown riding boots. I wonder if she wears a new outfit every day. Meanwhile I’m wearing a plain red T-shirt and dark denim jeans. My hair is pulled up into a messy bun. Considering I got ready in only fifteen minutes, I look put together.

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