Page 71 of I Think He Knows?

“That’s amazing,” Eliza says. “There’s nothing more special than lifelong friendship.”

“I couldn’t have said it better myself,” Lilly’s mom agrees.

Out of the corner of my eye, I spot Cam, and my stomach does a flip.

“My son works here as well,” Cam’s mom tells us. “He’s the head of the physical education department.”

I guess that’s her way of saying PE coach, although technically she’s right.

Lilly’s eyes dart to me. “Oh my goodness, I forgot to mention Michelle is Cam’s mother.”

She puts her arm around Michelle’s shoulders and touches her cheek to hers. “Also known as my second mom.”

Eliza presses her lips together. Does Lilly think she’s fooling anyone? It’s obvious what she’s doing.

“I had no idea how adored my Cam is,” Michelle says, placing her hands on her heart. “I’ve had so many people come up to me and tell me how important he is to the school. My mama heart is so full today.”

“Yes, Coach Cam is a favorite around here,” I agree.

“Are you all talking about me?” a deep voice says.

We all turn to see Cam has joined us.

Eliza is watching intently. I know she’s enjoying every second of this interaction. She’s just missing the popcorn.

“I was telling them I had no idea how much everyone loves you at this school,” Michelle says, patting his shoulder. “I’m so proud of you.”

Cam smiles weakly. “Thanks, Mom.”

“Excuse me,” a voice calls over the intercom. “I’m Donna Lewis, the principal here at Eastern Lake Elementary.”

Everyone turns to where she’s standing on a platform.

“From the bottom of my heart, thank you for coming out to Celebrate Our School.”

Applause erupts from the guests.

“Excuse me,” Lilly says, walking towards Ms. Lewis as if she needs to be part of this announcement. She moves right in front of the platform, and sure enough, Ms. Lewis notices her.

“Oh, we have a wonderful new addition to our faculty this year. Our new assistant principal, Lilly Winters.”

Ms. Lewis motions for Lilly to join her on the platform. Meanwhile Lilly’s mom and Michelle are cheering so loudly, you’d think Taylor Swift had shown up. They are joined by the two older gentlemen I assume to be Cam’s and Lilly’s fathers. Ms. Lewis offers Lilly the microphone, which she gladly accepts. Like Jess said, Lilly likes Lilly a lot.

“Hey,” Cam says coming up beside me.

“Hi. Cam, you remember my best friend, Eliza?”

He nods. “Of course. How could I forget?”

Eliza cringes. Obviously, he’s referring to the Leo situation.

“I’m just kidding,” he says. “How are you?”

Eliza smiles. “I’m well, thanks.”

“How did everything go with your class today?” Cam asks.

“Serena, I should probably find Mason before he spends a fortune. I’ll talk to you in a bit.”

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