“But other times, he seems so thoughtful. Like he’s slowed down and observed the things I like and the music I listen to. It’s so sweet when it happens, but, honestly, it always kind of surprises me when it does because he’s not really like that with other people. I don’t want to sound like I’m painting him in such a negative light. It’s not that he’s not considerate. He’d do anything for anyone. I know that. But he’s not always the most observant guy. So there’s a dichotomy there. These two different sides of his personality that don’t necessarily mesh.”

Simon shifted in his seat. “Maybe he’s more observant with you because of how much he cares about you. He’s trying harder because he loves you.”

“Yeah. That’s what I keep telling myself. But I don’t want him to feel like he has to be someone he’s not.”

“I think he just wants to impress you.”

“I know. And I appreciate it. He’s done some amazing things for me.” I glanced his way. “He told you about my birthday, right? It was incredible. But it still felt . . . I don’t know how it felt.”

“I’m guessing there’s still a question in there somewhere.”

“Right. I did say that. I guess I’m wondering what Jamie has been like in the past. Is this typical girlfriend stuff you’ve seen him do before?”

He ran his hand over his jaw. “I’ll say this. I’ve never seen Jamie care so much or work so hard to make a woman happy like he has with you.”

“Really?”

He nodded. “Really.”

My cell phone rang before I could say anything more. The Bluetooth in my car picked up the call. My mother. Risky, answering her through Bluetooth, considering Simon would hear our entire conversation. I glanced at my phone sitting in the center console, comforted to know I could make a fast switch if need be.

“Bueno? Mama?”

“Lane? Are you on your way?”

“We are. We should be there by lunchtime. How is Abuela?”

“Oh, fine, fine. Everything is fine, but, Lane, I need to warn you.”

“You’re on speaker phone, Mom. Simon’s listening.”

“Oh. Hello, Simon. Nice to finally have the chance to say hello.” I glanced at Simon and rolled my eyes.

“Hello, Dr. Bishop. I’m looking forward to meeting you in person.”

“Mmm. He has a nice deep voice, Lane. Very nice.”

“Mom!”

“Where was I? Oh yes. There’s something I need to tell you. Nothing major. Just a small little detail that I may have mentioned to my mother when we were discussing you and Simon.”

“What kind of little detail?”

“You know how she pressures me, Lane.”

“Uh-huh.”

“And you know how persuasive she is.”

“Mama. What did you say to her?”