Not So Nice Guy(69)

“Obviously.”

“I can promise that as long as you’re the head of the Oak Hill Gazette, I’ll read every issue.”

I grip his shirt with a wild plea. “You have to—you’re our most devoted reader.”

“I also promise to send you the most Valentine’s Day bears out of every teacher at the school.”

Our tradition still stands. “Thank you. I appreciate that.”

“So does the choir director. I think we make up half of his annual fundraising revenue with our antics.”

I grin, and then it fades as I realize something.

“You’re leaving out one thing,” I prod.

He frowns. “What?” Then an idea hits him. “Oh, right: I’ll always love you. Is that what you were after?”

I sigh with feigned exasperation, like, Ugh, you idiot. “No. Love shmove—I don’t care about that. Promise me you’ll always be my best friend.”

He laughs, tips his head down, and kisses my cheek.

“I thought that was obvious, Hot Lips. Best friends, forever.”