He’s adorable. So adorable. So different to the austere attitude she’s used to. And it’s so lovely to hear him so animated. Proud of himself rather than questioning. That would be reason alone to have not stopped him in his tracks. But a far simpler reason is present, too.

“I like listening to you. Hearing you talk. Your voice.” Her own has an ever so slight dream-like quality to it. He has no need to be embarrassed. She doesn’t find him irksome or awkward in any way. If he wanted to list every single one of his function in laborious detail, she would hang on every word.

With a contented hum, she rests a hand on his knee when he draws her closer. For the first time, she notes how she seems to fit against him. How his cheek rests upon her head just so. It’s… easy. He appears to be at ease, having her so near. Holding her. Even when no emotional turmoil that could serve as an excuse for such proximity is present.

“I feel happier.” True, the cotton candy plays a part but it isn’t entirely responsible. “I don’t feel so afraid of the things I think or the things I do. The things I feel…” She pauses a moment, stroking lazy patterns on his knee. “But don’t just talk about me. Tell me about you. I hope you’ve been having the loveliest time.”