He obliged, leaning forward to kiss her again. *** She was watching him, her expression focused and a bit anxious.
She sighed, pulling him closer and kissing him back. * * * "I've been in love with you," he told her. "But I'm glad you're joining me."
He brushed her hair back gently, his touch soft. *** She relaxed slightly, but look confused. "You have been?"
She paused, pulling back breathlessly before taking his hand. * * * "Of course," he said quietly. "Of course, Nascha. It's been you for a long, long time."
She followed him, holding his hand. * ** He paused, considering this. "I think... I knew for sure when that cat swiped at you. But it was a long time coming. You're different than everyone else, Nas. You're special. You've always been special."
He sat on the edge of the bed, looking up at her. *** She laughed slightly. "That's.. You didn't say anything."
She looked down at him, saying nothing for a moment before slipping onto his lap, a little uncertain. * * * "If I remember correctly," he began languidly, "I think my exact words were 'I adore you'."
He kissed her cheek, his touch gentle. *** She grinned, laughing slightly. "I didn't know you meant it like that."
She crossed her arms behind his neck. "Are you tired?" * * * "I figured. I left it intentionally cryptic."
He nodded slightly. "Yeah, a bit. Are you?" *** She watched him affectionately before moving to kiss his cheek. "You're so good."
She rested her forehead against his, watching him. "A little," she said after a moment. * * * He laughed out loud, the arm that wasn't supporting him snaking around her waist and pulling her close. "Nah, I'm a coward."
She considered this, watching him with eyes the color of cinnamon. "Probably," she replied after a moment, leaning against him. * * * "Thanks, Nas," he said smoothly. "I think you're good too."
He ran his hand through her hair, looking back at the bed. *** She looked up at him. "Will you stay?"
She laughed, slipping off of his lap and getting onto her side. * * * He watched her before brushing her hair back gently. "If you want me."
Her back was to him, but he would hear her yawn sleepily as she got into position. * * * He was quiet, those green eyes watching her intensely. "I'll be here as long as you want me."
