This time there was no need for him to step forward, for her to wonder what would happen, to dream of things that likely weren't. Instead his hands were warm and gentle, caressing her cheek and pulling her closer. Malou's breathe caught as the distance she hadn't even realized had still been there melted away. Her own hand floated up to his chest the other, found his waist and sat tentatively like a bird to be frightened away. His eyes were on her, the gaze intent, and for that moment she trusted it wasn't just the mistletoe that guided him. Her eyes fluttered shut as his lips met hers, warm and tender. So very very gentle. And yet her stomach seemed to be seeking a way to soar, her very being aware of every inch of him.

So this was what it was like to be kissed, to feel wanted. It was a tenderness, a kindness, a warmth and presense that Malou had always thought she would be okay without. But now, in this moment she understood. Her body leaned into him , without realizing it, wishing for this moment to never end. His heart beat against her hand as her own seemed to race against the confines of her ccorset.