A/N: Just a short little piece of fluff to counter the last update. Over 50 reviews, thanks so much guys :) It means a lot to me.

He jumped and let out a far less manly shriek than he would ever admit to. But really, what did the woman expect sneaking up on him like that?

"Riley, what the hell?" he said, glaring at her. She was trying to conceal her laughter but she couldn't hide her smile. It's not every day you see the great Gabriel Vaughn jump out of skin at a simple hello.

"Here I am minding my own business and you feel the need to sneak up on me, what kind of person are you?" he asked in mock-annoyance.

"I just said hello" she replied shrugging.

"Yes but I was kind of spaced out"

"I didn't know that" His eyes narrowed as she smiled at him.

"You're enjoying this way too much" he said and her smile grew wider in response. "What have you got to say for yourself?"

"Um, boo"

"Shut up" She laughed in response and he couldn't help smiling at her in return.

"So what were you thinking about?" she asked curiously.

"Nothing" he replied. She gave him and incredulous look.

He relented, saying "Ok fine I'll bite I was thinking about how far we've come since we first met." She raised an eyebrow. Sure she liked him a lot more than when she first met him but that had been nearly a year ago now. Where was he going with this?

"Go on" she said when he didn't elaborate.

"Actually that's it" he replied cheekily and she slugged him in the shoulder.

"Seriously though Gabriel, what's up?" His expression turned serious as he regarded her for a moment. She tilted her head in question and he sighed.

"I like you Riley" he said.

"Good to know"

"No, you don't get it. I like you far more than I should" her brows furrowed in confusion as her eyes tore through him, demanding an answer to her unasked question. He watched her expression carefully for anything that would suggest his next move would be received well. Neither said anything for a minute, each trying to gauge the other's emotions.

"Riley" Gabriel sighed, his eyes begging her to understand. The look in her eyes softened slightly and he could see the question still lingering there but there was also a hint of hope in her expression. He took that as encouragement as he slowly leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to her cheek. Her skin was soft and worm as eyes followed his movements. He pulled away carefully analysing her expression. He half expected her to slap him but she remained still, face carefully guarded.

"What was that?" she asked softly, her eyes reluctantly meeting his.

"It was…nice" he replied uncertainly. A smile slowly pulled free of her lips and he felt his own lift in response.

"I think it was a little too short to decide" she replied, her smile growing in confidence.

"Well I had better fix that then" he said as he leaned in. This time they met half way as is lips brushed against her own gently, slowly exploring. Her tongue softly brushed against his lips and he opened his mouth in reply. She tasted like coffee, mint and Riley and he instantly decided that it was one of his favourite things. The kiss grew in intensity, hands tangling in hair as it became a battle for dominance. They moved together in sync and it wasn't long before air became a necessity and they broke away reluctantly. He rested his forehead against hers, breathing deeply.

"Gabriel" she whispered against his lips.

"I know" he breathed in reply.