25 Ways to Show You Love Him

6. "I want a date, not a command performance!" —Marc, 19
If a guy's gonna be your guy, every date can't be a big deal. You should be able to just hang out. Take a walk with him, or go inline-skating or biking — you don't necessarily need a destination. Watch a sport together on TV. Ask reasonable questions if you're interested in learning more about the game. If you're really not interested, let him watch the game while you do something else (draw, flip through a magazine, whatever) — it's a way to share the same space if not the same activity.

7. "I want a girl to treat me with respect." —Wynter, 17
Apply the golden rule of romance: Do unto him as you want him to do unto you. So don't flirt around. Yes, of course, you can be nice to other guys. Just don't come on to them or accept their advances. Don't trash him to your friends (either behind his back or in his face!) or betray his confidences.

8. "I want a girl who understands me." —Jonny, 16
Listen when he speaks, not just with your ears, but with your heart. Talk with him, not just to him — and never at him.

9. "Smart girls are a turn-on!" —Kevin, 16
Don't play dumb. You don't have to play small to make your boyfriend feel big. Study together — you'll both do better in school. Teach him something you know that he doesn't know, but be sure to share your skills, smarts, and talents in a loving, constructive way. Don't come off like a know-it-all: People who have to parade their intelligence reek of insecurity.

10. "Nothing's worse than a girl who flakes out!" —Erich, 15
Be reliable. If you make dates or promises, keep them. If you can't, be responsible about letting him know, and explain why. Call when you say you will. He hates sitting by the phone for hours as much as you do. If you've promised him an answer, deliver it. On time. It's a great way to build both trust and responsiveness into the relationship.