Growing up I was always considered a tom boy. Whether it was me choosing a red power ranger over a barbie doll or begging my mom to let me shop in the boys section for basketball shorts that proved that point, it’s clear to see how some of my closest friends have been boys. But when it comes to my very best friend, no one can compare to not only my longest, but my truest friend Nick. Since the day we texted about him liking my best friend at the time in the 8th grade, we’ve been nearly inseparable ever since, tearing up the town one fourth meal at taco bell and movie marathon at a time. Simply because I could never say I love you enough, this letter, as protective as it is, is for the girl who is lucky enough to call him theirs.

To the Girl Who Steals My Best Friend’s Heart,

First things first. Let me congratulate you on the tremendous honor that you’ve obtained. You have successfully won the heart of the best man I’ve ever met in my entire life. But with such a triumph comes some things you must consider at all times and responsibilities you must understand to the fullest degree. Why? Because when I give you my blessing on this relationship, which I fully intend and want to do, I’m giving you years and years of memories, emotions and the building of one the greatest friendships I’ve ever held near and dear to my heart.

You might have been scared to meet the parents, but trust me, nothing compares to meeting and impressing me. Now don’t take this as a threat by any means, this is simply just fact. This boy isn’t just a “boy”. This is my best friend, and that blood is as thick as family. I’ll be damned if I let just anyone waltz into our lives. But all harshness aside, anyone whom he thinks highly of is someone I regard high as well. If this is hard to process, think of this. You make him happier than anything in the world, but for as long as I’ve remembered, that title has always belonged to me. That smile I thought I could only bring out of him is now being brought out by you, something I’m just not used to.

Don’t get me wrong, I knew this day would come eventually, when he’d find my “replacement” so to speak, and start forming traditions and “things” with another person in his life, but it doesn’t make sharing him any easier. But, because I knew this would all happen sooner or later, here are a few things you need to understand about my boy here.

For starters, he’s sensitive. He’s in touch with his soft side, and this is probably one of the many things you love about him. When it comes to being compassionate, sincere and loving there’s not many who are better than he. But because of this he’s been taken advantage of, walked all over, chewed up and spit out by those who don’t value or deserve his huge heart. Promise me you’ll always treat him the way he is ought to be treated, listen to what he has to say, and don’t be afraid to admit you’re wrong because I promise you he’ll ALWAYS give more than he gets.

Love his passions and show interest in what he likes, no matter how weird they are. I know, he’s a weird guy. But that’s what makes him, him. Sometimes you’ll want to tell him to stop talking excessively about the latest rock single released or the upcoming and highly anticipated Batman movie, but this is what makes his heart beat. Learn to love it if you don’t already, or at least learn to fake it really well because it will make him smile endlessly from cheek to cheek.

Lastly, be yourself. If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years about him is that it doesn’t take much to win him over. He’s the kindest, most selfless, loving and passionate person I’ve ever met and will adore any and everything that you do if you stay true to who you are and love the life that you two live together. When it comes to surprises or dates, keep it simple. He likes it that way. If you’re planning to get him a gift, he adores homemade ones, or anything that involves homemade cooking.

No matter the amount of times you mess up, no matter how many terrible things you could have possibly done, you have a fighter with you. You chose one of the strongest guys out there to be your partner, and I commend you for it. He’ll make you the luckiest girl in the world if you let him. So go ahead, take one day at a time and live out everything to fullest because when you’ve got someone as amazing as him by your side, anything and everything will be the best time of your life.

Just from one girl to another,

The Best Friend