He watched her, eyes flicking between both of hers for what seemed like far, far too long of a moment.  But she moved toward him and before he could even react, her lips were on his, soft and warm compared to the cool water.  He could feel the warmth of the rest of her body as it closed in on his.  He kissed her back, softly, his eyes closing softly as his hands hung loosely at his side.  He was stunned.<br/><br/>As she moved away, he smiled, "Not the response I expected, but it was better," he said as he blushed, eyes fluttering as he tried to think, but his mind was locked on replaying the memory of that kiss.  Valla's kiss.  He smiled as he exhaled, feeling the weight slipping away as he felt a warmth in his chest.  It felt good to finally tell her.  "I feel so much better for finally telling you..." he repeated the thought aloud, his crooked smile - his true smile - etched on his face, fingers anxious to touch her and have her close.