Later that morning in sewing class, Riley tried to concentrate on her latest project, a cover for a throw pillow. But she kept sneaking glances at Willow. Larry Slotnick sat between Riley and Willow. He was tall and lanky, with brown hair and brown eyes. He lived next door to the Carlsons, and he'd had a crush on Riley since kindergarten. "So, I finally got to you," Larry said the third time Riley glanced his way. "What was it? My incredibly strong jaw? My masculine chin?" "Huh?" Riley asked.

"You keep staring at me," Larry said. Clearly, he didn't realize she was looking at Willow. He gave her a goofy grin. "I guess this means you'll go out with me now." "Ohhh," Riley said. Larry was always asking her out. And Riley was always saying no. It was practically a game. He knew she liked him only as a friend. "Sorry, Larry. It doesn't," she told him. Larry shrugged. "Check out my muscles." He flexed a skinny arm. "Maybe you'll change your mind." Riley rolled her eyes and went back to her pillow cover. A few minutes later, Larry left his desk to talk to Ms. Spoke, the sewing teacher.

Riley took another quick glance at Willow. Tall and blond and incredibly pretty, Willow was making a blouse. Riley never would have tried a blouse. It was too hard, with sleeves and a collar and buttonholes. But Willow didn't seem to be having any trouble.