"Yes!" I reply with a quick laugh, reaching over to squeeze Jack's knee lightly. "Just 'cause it's their job doesn't mean it should go unappreciated. I just want to compliment them and for helping to give me the best birthday ever.

I don't miss the way he grimaces when he takes a bite of the grits, but I don't call him on it. I know they're not for everyone and, anyway, it just means more for me. It does make me wonder though what sort of Canadian food he has that I might not like. That'll be a project for later; maybe he can help with the research.

The look he gives me when I ask about the date, like it's the dumbest question he's ever heard, is a little embarrassing, but mostly wonderful and I just shrug as I take another bite. "I just wanted to be sure. It's not like I'm keepin' count inside my head or anything. That would just be weird."