Louis and Tawny were seated on a park bench after school. "You know," Louis started, with a playful grin. "I actually got Wexler's permission to do that little intercom stunt this morning," he said.
Tawny looked at him in disbelief. "He gave you permission? And you went out of your way to ask him for it?"
Louis nodded. "I reminded him how I haven't played a single prank at school after getting together with you. He knows as well as I do that it's all because of my love for you and how it has consumed my life ever since. So I reasoned that if he lets me play this one prank that will add even more fuel to the flames of love, he won't have to worry about me playing any other pranks. Not bad, huh?" He smiled, visibly pleased with himself. "It's amazing how much you can get out of reasoning with people. That's another one of the things you've taught me," he added, his voice now a touch more serious.
Tawny looked deeply into Louis's eyes. The reminder of his prankster days evoked memories. This was the Louis she had fallen in love with, the Louis that could make her laugh like no one else could, the Louis that had turned her life into a wonderful adventure. He had changed so much since then, ultimately because of her. His life was now devoted to her instead of pranks and schemes. He could still be the lovable goof if he wanted to, but only to make her feel special. He had changed so much and yet remained the same. And what hadn't changed at all was his love for her.
"Louis," Tawny said, her eyes still fixed on his. "You're a marvel, you really are. I have to admit… When I first fell in love with you, I didn't know I would come to appreciate you the way I do now." Louis just stared fondly at her.
"We should get going, Louis," Tawny said. "Or we'll be late for dinner. My mom's making my favorite dish tonight. You didn't think I would leave you out, did you?" She smiled. "Thank you for being a part of my life, Louis."
Louis kept staring at her, this time with a hint of surprise. Tawny helped him up to his feet, sensing that he would have otherwise remained in that pose all day. They started walking in silence, their hands still held.