Mayerling lays there and waits patiently. Sharon has to choose whether to open her heart. Her heart has to let itself out. Sharon has to follow it and understand it. Simple words. Simple actions. Not simple to understand.

When Sharon shifts her posture entirely, Mayerling knows something has happened, likely whatever will happen tonight. His heart beats faster, no matter how much he wills it to beat steady. The frisson that something is happening cannot be ignored, no matter that it may disappoint him. Ever the optimist when it comes to love, Mayerling believes it will be... something. Something.

The answer is a variation on Sharon not knowing but a more honest one. A more open one. A request that comes from being open and vulnerable with him. Mayerling smiles, beaming as broad as the sunlight he remembers in Johan's memories. It's hardly a resounding declaration of love a vampire might make, but he's romanced three humans before. Mayerling's an old hat at this, so far as vampires go.

"Yes, Sharon," he answers in his deep voice. "I would like to go on a date with you, and I would like to figure it out together."

He looks up at Sharon framing his body and lightly caresses her cheek. "Most of all, I would like for you not to avoid me. I missed you terribly, Sharon."

"You remarkable woman."