Page 159 of Bookworm

Bo shook his head. "He means we're here to lift stuffand do anything else you need then get out of the way."

"Oh," I said, feeling flustered, "well, thanks."

"No problem," he said.

After Casey goteveryone's attention, we began delegating responsibilities. Natalia held up the sign-up sheet for statues. Casey led the guys to the truck. And I stood there, answering any and all questions. There were 12guys total. They were all strong and, like Bo said, willing to do whatever we asked. I couldn't believe it. I was still sorting through my feelings,but I wouldn't look a gift horse in the mouth.

After a few minutes, Bo came to stand beside me.

"So, where did you find them?" I asked.

"The Academy," he said. "They're students in the elite class."

I looked up in surprise.

"I called in a favor."

Swallowing, I shook my head. "How did you even know we needed help?"

"I listen to you, Kent." Bo gave me a look, and there was so much tenderness there, I had to look away. "I'll always listen to you.Always be there for you. I hope you know that."

As he walked away, Shin took his spot at my side.

"Looks like it's going to be an awesome event," Shin commented.

"Thanks, I hope so," I said.

"Don't thank me. This was all Bo."

"Really?"

Shin nodded. "He told us his girl needed help. Everyone jumped at the chance. Even though Bo'sbeen there for everyone here, he never asks us for anything."

My heart warmed, and I tilted my head.

"When was that exactly?" I asked.

"Ah man, I'm not sure. Like a week ago?" he said."We've known for a while."

Feeling suddenly overcome with emotion,I nodded. "That was nice of him. You know,to do this for the kids and the library."

"Ah Lottie, I think we both know who he's doing this for."

Shin gave my shoulder a pat then walked away.

The work went much quicker with more hands, and just as he'd said, Bo and the others left when it was done.I didn't even get a chance to say goodbye. Iassumed that was his way of trying to respect my space.

"We're all set on living statues," Casey said, and Natalia added, "Under all that bluster, Bo is a sweetheart. You're so lucky, Lottie."

I knew she was right.

The tug in my chest begged me to go after him, tell him how I felt.

But he and my sister were keeping secretsfrom me.It was a matter of self-preservation. I didn't believe in real-life HEA—but I'd wanted to with Bo.I had to be more careful, had to make sure my heart wasn't in danger, even if it wanted nothing more than to be his.

I had to keep my guard up—right?

CHAPTER 24

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