Sorry sorry sorry I know this is short again. I guess that's my thing...? But this chapter just felt like it needed to end where it did... so that's what happened.

Yeah... Thank you, my faithful followers!

What a giant dork.

Maka quickly shook her head, trying to dispel the massive blush that'd come across her face. Her partner – her stupid, stupid, dorky as hell partner – had said "I love you," and then promptly shut his eyes to pretend he was sleeping.

That dork.

Maka continued combing through his hair as he "slept." She had to smother a giggle when she saw that his cheeks held a similar blush.

Not so cool now, eh Soul Eater?

Over those past few days, she'd experienced a very different Soul Eater Evans. Sure, he was always snuggle-hungry, though he'd never admit it. But this time, with his walls smashed down from sickness, he seemed to really want her… he craved her, as if their snuggle time was like an addictive drug.

Though, Maka had to admit. It did feel good, having her hands run easily through his now smoothed hair. And he looked so peaceful. Even with that stupid blush on his cheeks, and the way his breath caught in his throat when her fingers massaged his temples.

"Hey, Soul," she said into the air. "I know you're sleeping, but I'm just gonna talk anyway."

Lies. Lies, lies, lies. She knew he was awake – and wide awake now that she was speaking.

"I'm really glad I could make you feel better," she continued, "or at least try to make you feel better. I'm sorry our trip wasn't that fun for you, but I really enjoyed spending so much time with you."

Soul's blush deepened.

"And I know I'm being really un-cool right now," Maka went on, "but I want you to know that I'll always take care of you. Or whatever you need. I'll just… I'll always… I'll always be there for you."

Her fingers inched down to brush over his hand resting on his stomach. "And not just because you're your meister." Fingers effortlessly interlaced.

Oh god Soul was going to blow his cover. Her hand was so warm against his icy skin. He wasn't sure if he'd accidentally let his fingers twitch.

Thank the fucking lord he had enough sense in his stupid 12 year old head to say yes when she'd come to his mansion that night. If they hadn't become partners, who knows where Soul would be.

Maka was the reason Soul found his courage, the reason he started to believe in himself… and love himself, because he loved her.

When she squeezed his fingers she said to him, "I love you too, Soul," and his heart almost exploded.

She said it. She really said it.

Ah, fuck it.

Soul's fingers tightened as well, and the corner of his lip curled up into the tiniest smirk.

"Tch. Now go to sleep," Maka chuckled.

Next chapter will be the last!

But stay tuned for a Soma-Snuggle One shot collection!