"Well, it doesn't have to be a piano," I say, and then smile, flushing red when I hear myself. "I mean, obviously not literally. But the gesture. It doesn't have to be that big."

I shake my head because what do I know? I didn't know T.J. even played the piano. I don't know how people love as wholly and hard as he and Thomas do. There were times when I thought maybe I was in love but I know now that was wrong. I was too young. Too naive. I just wanted to please. "Books are always a good gift," I clarify. "Do you have a favorite one you'd want him to read? That you'd want to share with him?"