I've kissed Tom before.
Not often—just a few times since the Pon Farr incident. Once he knew I wasn't completely disinterested in him, we dated a bit, and usually, with dating comes kissing. So…we kissed.
I never went over the top with him, but to say that I could completely resist him would be a huge lie. Especially after knowing what it was like to kiss him. There was nothing I could do after that point but try not to scare him off.
This kiss was different, though.
Different than anything I've ever before felt in my life.
I told him that I love him and he didn't take the nearest escape pod.
I don't know if he loves me, too—he hasn't said it yet. But if that kiss was any indication, the feeling is mutual.
My heart is pounding right now, but for the first time in days not because of the fear of rejection; it's anticipation.
I know that Tom can only be a few seconds behind me—I'm sure he wouldn't let the Doctor keep him occupied for too long at this point.
With that thought, my pace slows, hoping to make it easier for Tom to catch me. I've probably played hard-to-get long enough.
I try very hard not to think too much about what's to come—the possibilities are too big for me to handle right now—and instead try to just think of the next few moments.
That thought brings a smile to my lips.
I pause as I hear hurried footsteps behind me.
I turn around.