I’m standing by the doorway, impatiently awaiting your return, like a stranded puppy. It’s pathetic, but I don’t care. I love that I’m home to greet you and not having to call you at random hours of the day while on tour. Getting to hear all the crazy stories you have from your job as a middle school teacher, in person, has quickly become my favorite thing.

The second I hear your car roll up on the driveway, I’m bolting out the door to greet you. Like I said—stranded puppy.

Smiling as you hop out of your car, I help you grab your things and shut the door behind you, planting a quick kiss in greeting on your cheek. “Hi, sweetheart.”

As we walk back to the front door, you’re already deep into your spiel for the day. Telling me about any student drama you eavesdropped on, any kids that misbehaved, and anything else you think will make me laugh. I eat up every word. Honestly, I think I just like hearing you talk. But these stories can be pretty interesting too.

But possibly the most interesting to date is said today, when you say, “They were asking about you.”

“Me?” I ask, incredulously.

It’s not a secret that we’re dating, but we do keep things very, very private. Only a few photos have been snapped of us out on the town together, but I guess your students are little sleuths. After 5 months together, after meeting at a nightclub, I’m surprised it took them this long. Kids are curious beings.

“What were they asking?”