Somehow I feel you are a quick learner regardless. [flirting again by the mild tone of it, as he intertwines their fingers and thinks of that dramatic night they sat here.

he's not particularly surprised to hear that was the moment, not when he emotions ran so high and their connection is what chased the creature away for good. he runs a thumb over pal's knuckles like an apology.] No, I won't- [a pause] I'll try not to. Work in progress, as we said. Being eh... vulnerable is difficult, but you do have an incredible ability to make me want to try regardless.

[he glances up, lips quirking at the kiss to his hand, a little surprised that meant as much as it did to pal. it's something he makes a note of, a list of things he really does want to give him while they have the time. declarations, moments like that.] I still want to. Fireworks, comfort food- we'll get there, eventually. Bit by bit.