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“What are you doing back?” I asked. “It’s not even five.”
“And what are you doing looking like you just worked out?”
Busted.
“That’s the weather’s fault. Lily and I took a walk to the coffee shop. It was fine on the way there, but it got so hot on the way back. I’m chugging this to be sure I don’t get a headache.”
“Amy . . .”
“I’m okay!” I insisted. “Seriously. I feel normal. And I took my medicine today. Everything is fine. Besides, you didn’t answer my question.”
“I wanted to check on you and be sure you weren’t overdoing it.”
“Ah. Well. Itriednot to. The sun betrayed me. Besides, I have to go back to normal living eventually. I know this was scary for you, but this wasn’t my first rodeo.”
“It wasn’t, but I’m not all that sure you have your own best interests in mind.”
“I did have a massive migraine that landed me in the hospital to prove that I was wrong. I’m listening now, I promise. I don’t need you to get all overprotective of me.”
His shoulders slumped. “You know why I’m doing it, right?”
“Because you have a crush on me and I’m the light of your life?”
“You sound like you’re joking, but that’s actually the reason. I want to take care of you.”
“And you have. But I wanted to spend time with Lily and feel a little normal.”
“Did it help?”
“Yes. And I got some surprisingly good advice from Emma when she called.”
“What did she call about?”
“She was checking in to see if you got me the car, and I told her about the migraine and stalled her. I’ll have to get a rental after this so she doesn’t force me to take my old car back.”
“Why would you need a rental? We’re still getting you whatever you want.”
“Are you serious, a whole-ass car?”
“As opposed to what, a half-ass car?”
“I—you know what I mean. That’s expensive, and with the medical bills?—”
“Stop worrying about all of that. I’m paying for it all.”
God, I needed to message Riley and see if her rich husband did this same thing. I had no idea how to respond.
But I did want a new car.
“Fine. Thank you.”
“Are you listening to me now?”
“Only when I want to. What’s my budget?”
“No budget.”
“What? Come on, you have to have something. Give me a number.”