There are moments when she lets herself let go, though they're few and far between. When she catches him looking at her like that, it makes her think for one fleeting moment that this really is something special. That she's special to him. And a kiss like that can be more alluring than a hundred passionate ones.

She smiles softly as he combs through her hair, chin tipping down ever so slightly in that shy way she can't shake.

"Now that I know how much y'like it, I could always keep a carafe of tea handy."

Back to teasing, spark in her eye and smirk tugging at her mouth. She kisses the tip of his nose, and keeps her finger in the book to mark their place.

"I don't mind, y'know. If it helps get your mind off things."