[somehow, that? wasn't what he was expecting. he doesn't know what exactly he was expecting, but it definitely wasn't "I really liked today." Even if it made sense in the abstract. And even if every instinct in his panicked mind was telling him "you're going to ruin this. will it be worth it?"

luckily, he can use catching his breath as an excuse to not reply, even if the privacy does allow some of his guard to drop. and for some of the confusion to show on his face.

but instead of replying, he just... closes the distance, kissing him again, his grip tightening just slightly]