"--Wanted to find a way to shut me up? It's as good a scheme as any," Claude rejoins with a laugh, sitting back. He's a little flushed himself, but the teasing smile on his face can't hide that he's happy. About the kiss, of course, but even moreso to see Lorenz gaining in confidence, bit by bit.

"Maybe next time you can even pull it off without getting all nervous about it. What do you think?"