Page 27 of Choosing Us

Me

You full-named me.

Ryan

Wouldn’t that have a G in it?

Me

You’ve seen my business card, huh?

Ryan

Actually, the nameplate on your door at the office.

Ryan

What does the G stand for? Gabrielle? Gwyneth? Goldilocks?… The last one would be entirely ironic with how dark your hair is.

Me

It’s Gisela, but actually, I legally have two middle names. I just don’t use the second one. Dr. Harlow G. M. Lane just felt pretentious… and a bit like an auto dealership.

I stir the soup to allow it to cool down a bit more and can’t help but touch my cheek with my fingers.

I’m smiling.

It’s not a big goofy smile, but this gesture and texting conversation is refreshing and … nice.

He’s nice.

A bit bossy, but in a nice way.

And I don’t think I mind that as much as I would have expected.

Ryan

There might be a joke in there about you missing your calling as an auto dealership tycoon, but it doesn’t work so well with the fact you’re like a real-life superhero already. Pretty hard to top that one.

Me

lol hardly a superhero, sir. No, maybe like their sidekick that does that data work at headquarters.

Ryan

Hey now, don’t insult nerds. I love nerds.

Me

Is it because you are, in fact, a nerd yourself?

Ryan

Are you shrinking me right now, Doc?

Me

I should say never, but I can’t always turn it off.