Hans sits there for a time, not really responding. After a brief moment of thinking, he finally blurts:<br/>"No, that's not it."<br/>He looks down, his face going even redder - if possible.<br/>"It just... Came as a surprise. That's all."<br/>He sits there for quite some time, trying to make sense of his thoughts. He thinks about what the crewmen would say. he thinks about what ramifications this may have for the future. Then finally, he thinks about the possibilities. After thinking it through - which takes a second or so - he finally comes to, all his thoughts falling into place. He turns to Elizabeth, and this time, he's the one who decides to steal a kiss. It's fast and somewhat clumsy, but sincere. Holding the kiss for a while, he dares not break it until a few seconds have passed. He then smiles at her.<br/>"You know, Liz. I think we<span style="font-style: italic">could</span>."<br/>He grins, sheepishly now.<br/>"And why not? Like I said, it's always been us. And I think I speak for both of us when I say that none of us would have it any other way."<br/>He leans down and hugs her, all the awkwardness gone from his demeanour.<br/>"I'm not saying now. I'm saying 'think about it'. I think i just realized there's noone I'd rather spend my life with."<br/>He holds the hug for quite some time, not letting go until Liz forces her way out.