Page 77

The sound does something warm and fizzy to my insides.

He's different tonight.

Still controlled. Still watchful. Still carrying that aura of quiet power that makes me think people probably reconsider their life choices when he walks into a boardroom.

But he's funny.

Dryly funny.

And he listens.

Really listens.

Whenever I speak, his attention settles completely on me.

Like nothing else matters until I'm finished.

It's unnerving.

And intoxicating.

I like him.

Damn it.

I really like him.

Grimm reaches for the wine bottle.

“Would you like some more?”

I should say no. I've already had two glasses.

“Yes, please.”

Apparently, we're making questionable choices tonight.

His mouth curves as he fills my glass. Dora catches my eye. I narrow mine. She smiles innocently.

That’s it.

I am never telling her anything again.

“For dessert,” Grimm announces, setting the bottle down, “I've ordered something special.”

I perk up.

“Special?”

“You'll see.”

“You people and your surprises.”

“Impatient?” Grimm asks.

“I prefer prepared.”

“There's a difference?”