My eyes widen because I know how heavy they are. Then I grab the last box, but he’s so tall that with two boxes stacked, I can’t reach the top. He seems to realize this at the same time I do, because he bends through his knees, lowering the stack.
His muscles bulge. Good lord, but he’s so freaking strong.
The words tumble out before I can stop them. “You’re so big.”
Oh God.
Did I really just say that?
Out loud?
To his face?
The corner of his mouth twitches, but he doesn’t say anything. I’m frozen, the third box still in my hands, my face burning.
Say something. Anything.
But my brain has completely abandoned me, and I just stand there like a complete idiot, staring at him.
I put the box on the stack, still trying to think of something else to say. I’m not sure if he feels the tension, or if it’s just me. Probably just me.
I can’t take my eyes off him. The material of his shirt is pulled tight over the largest biceps in the history of the—
“After you,” Grim says, and I realize that I’ve just been standing there staring at him.
“Oh!” I gasp. “Right. Sorry.”
I rush to open the door for him, holding it while he carries all three boxes through. My cheeks blaze with heat.
Once we are outside, I hurry ahead to pop my trunk again. He loads the boxes in, arranging them carefully so they won’t shift during the drive.
“Thanks so much,” I tell him. “I really appreciate the help.”
But he’s already heading toward his SUV on the other side of the parking lot, his long legs carrying him away.
“Have a nice weekend,” I call after him.
He lifts one hand in acknowledgment but doesn’t turn around. Then he’s climbing into the driver’s seat and starting the car.
I watch him drive away, feeling off-balance.
Crap! Turns out I suck at trying to be friendly with him. I should just leave well alone.
Back inside, Sally is grinning at me like the cat who got the cream.
“What?” I ask, even though I know that look.
“Nothing.” She’s still grinning. “How did it go?” she asks in a singsong voice.
“He helped me carry boxes. That’s it.”
“Uh-huh.”
I sigh and lean against her desk. “Sally, can I ask you something?”
“Always.”
“You told me that Grim has been extra nice to everyone lately. Especially to Emma, Kate, and Autumn.”
