<em>- Bo with the others- <br/></em><br/><br/>Bo wasn't sure what to make of Mila's quick kiss.  As she moved to meet Bo in the center of the group, it was painfully difficult for Bo not to make it obvious how much he was affected by the way her soft form filled her sparse clothing.  His breaths quickened involuntarily, and he felt a stirring in his groin as a light flush rose to his face.  But her quick approach and retreat gave him pause.  He had obviously made her uncomfortable with his request and worried that he had pushed too far.  Her reaction made him want to reach out and comfort her, though he new that would only make things worse.  Bo gave Mari another smile and was about to settle back to his rear, resigned to work on the issue that was Mila another time, when Nicci intervened.<br/><br/>Bo looked down at Mila's hand as it rested in his own.  He squeezed it gently.  Looking up into her eyes, he felt a surge rise up, a desire to be her protector.  The last thing he wanted to do was make her uncomfortable.  Though Nicci evidently felt this kiss was necessary for Mila's benefit, and Bo was inclined to agree.  He was a little surprised at how quickly he trusted Nicci's instinct.  And he wasn't sure why he did, but he did.  Still, he wasn't going to ask Mila to do anything that she really didn't want to do.<br/><br/>He spoke softly, knowing that the others would hear, but directing his words to Mila, "I want to kiss you, Mila.  But when you're ready."  He smiled, trying to be reassuring.  "You'll know when the time is right, and I'll be ready when you are."  He stayed there, on his knees, holding her hand in his, with his eyes searching hers, making it clear that he would not withdraw from her, but leaving her the opening to retreat again if she so needed.<br/>