Medical Life & Hospital
What is Briana Ortiz’s job in the book?
She’s a doctor
What form of communication brings Briana and Jacob closer?
They exchange handwritten letters
Who in Briana’s family is seriously ill?
Her brother, Benny
What type of pet is Jafar?
African gray parrot
What mental health challenge does Jacob struggle with?
Social anxiety
In which hospital department do Briana and Jacob both work?
The emergency department / ER.
Why does Jacob decide to write Briana a heartfelt letter?
To apologize / explain himself after a rough first impression, and to open up.
What does Jewel tattoo on Jacob’s chest?
tiny lawnmower
What does Jacob say he got out of his breakup?
Dog
How does Jacob cope with his anxiety (what routines or tools does he use)?
He journals, has routines, and leans on writing (letters) to process his feelings
What nickname do other staff give Jacob early on?
Dr. Death
What personal struggles does Jacob share in his letters?
He reveals his social anxiety, fears, and past struggles
Why does Jacob agree to pretend he’s dating Briana?
Because he wants her to pretend to be his girlfriend in front of his family.
What’s different about Jacob’s dog?
He is a 3-legged rescue
What theme about vulnerability and presence is highlighted in their relationship?
That love shows up — being there for someone, even when things are messy
What personal safe space does Briana use at work to process grief?
Her sob closet
What significant item does Jacob give Briana before his kidney surgery?
He gives her his journals that chronicle his feelings and emotional journey.
Which family member of Jacob is getting married, prompting the fake relationship?(Need names of 2 characters involved)
His brother Jeremiah is marrying Amy (Jacob’s ex).
Where does Briana say her brother’s cat was found?
Brother found him behind a dumpster by a gas station
What traumatic memory does Briana confront again at Jacob’s brother’s wedding?
She’s triggered by seeing her ex-husband at the wedding, which brings up memories of her miscarriage / past trauma.
What is the name of the hospital where the story takes place?
Royaume Northwestern Hospital
What is Briana’s emotional reaction when she overhears a conversation between Jacob and Amy?
She’s hurt and skeptical — she thinks perhaps he’s still emotionally tied to Amy
How does the relationship between Jacob and Briana conclude in the epilogue (two years later)? (Looking for specific name included in answer)
They are married and have a daughter named Ava.
What is the name of the dog in the story?
Lieutenant Dan
How does Jacob show his deep, long-term commitment to Briana beyond words?
He gives her his journals that chronicle his feelings and emotional journey.