He knew what she'd meant to say, but his smile just became gentler, rather than wider as she back-tracked, trying to explain herself. And then it was out. His heart skipping too, but in a calm way, a happy way. It's a new and novel experience and one he actually finds himself enjoying.

"I think, I like you too." He responds quietly, and while he's always been the least assertive in school, that certainty, the kind that came out when he was protecting her earlier, that comes to the forefront. He sounds certain of it, and he's all warm smiles.

His eyes wander down to her cheek and he leans forward just a little bit. It's a gentle motion and she's being given a chance to back away, but his intention to give her a kiss on the cheek is clear, if she decides to stay still.