Page 66 of I Think He Knows?

He holds up his phone. “That’s exactly what my mother said.”

“Well, that’s nice, right?” I offer.

At least I think it is. I don’t know how else to respond, so I do the only thing I can think of. It’s my turn to pull him into a hug.

“Thank you,” he says into my neck. “I should probably go check in with Lewis. I’m sure she has a long to-do list for me.”

“Probably. Have fun.”

“I’ll see you later.” He brushes his lips against mine once more before leaving.

I bring my fingers to my mouth and touch were Cam just kissed me. I love that he wanted to see me as soon as he arrived.

I don’t know what to expect with Cam’s parents coming today or if I’ll even meet them. He didn’t mention introducing me, and it’s okay if he’s not ready. Today is about engaging with my students and their families. Everything else can wait.

Chapter Fifteen

Days like today are the reason I truly love my job. I have the best class. I’ve been able to talk with most of my students’ families and show them what the kids have been working on. The favorite things posters are a huge hit, and all the parents tell me how much their children love coming to school. This is what every teacher hopes for, and admittedly I get teary-eyed more times than I can count.

It’s been such a busy day I haven’t had a chance to check my phone. I hope Jess is alright and she’s surviving Mrs. Wallingford’s high pressure. Our class meet and greet time is almost over, and then I’ll be able to go out and enjoy the rest of the event. The schedule allows us time to be in the classroom and then be present with the community in the pavilion and outside in the courtyard. In past years I’ve been able to participate in Hula-Hoop contests with my students and cheer them on when they win prizes. It’s fun to see the kids outside of the classroom without having to be responsible for them. The pressure’s off, and I can just have fun, although I still find myself keeping an eye on my little ones.

When I’m finally able to check my phone, I have no messages. Nothing from Jess and nothing from Cam. I’m sure he’s been staying busy today, but I’m curious if his parents ever showed up.

As soon as the meet and greet time is over, I walk to Jess’s classroom.

“How did it go?” I ask.

She holds her hands up and shakes her head in disbelief. “It was fine. Mrs. Wallingford was on her best behavior and didn’t mention her relentless emails. I’m not sure if she’s playing mind games with me or what. I guess she didn’t want to give off the wrong impression because she announced she’s thinking of running for PTA president next year.”

I cringe. “Oh no.”

“Oh yes,” she exclaims. “Hopefully someone runs against her, or else we’re all in big trouble.”

“At least her child won’t be in your class anymore,” I say, trying to find the silver lining.

“No, but if she’s the president, we’ll all have to deal with her. There will be mass emails flooding our inboxes at all hours of the night, and probably on Christmas. No one will be safe.”

I laugh even though she’s right.

“Well, let’s not worry about it yet,” I suggest. “Are you ready to get a gourmet lunch from a food truck?”

She nods. “In other news, I never saw Leo—at least he never came to my classroom.”

“That’s okay. There’s still plenty of time.”

She shrugs. “We’ll see. Unless he got food and then snuck out before I had a chance to see him.”

I hold up my hand. “Don’t think like that. Leo is coming to see you. The food truck is just an extra bonus.”

She gives me a grateful smile. “Thanks, Serena.”

I understand how she feels. I’ve been in her shoes, and sometimes you need your friends to boost you up.

“More importantly, did you ask Cam about his parents coming today? Lilly is so calculated—she knew exactly what to say to get under your skin.”

“Cam didn’t know they were coming,” I tell her.

Her jaw drops open. “Are you serious? Lilly knew, and he didn’t? What kind of strange relationship do they have?”

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