Something New

This was new, Cam thought as he glanced down at his and Vala's entwined hands. Not that he was complaining, mind. Not when he could feel the warmth of her soft skin on his as they exited the mountain and into the chilly night air. He wanted to ask what it meant but was afraid to break the spell they seemed to be under. They reached the car in silence and Cam was reluctant to break contact, yet knew it had to be done. Just as he was about to pull away, though, Vala's grip on his tightened. He stared at her quizzically, seeing an adorably pensive look on her face.

"What is it, Vala?"

"Do you remember when you asked me if I thought this...thing between us is a good different or a bad different?"

"Yeah, did you finally figure it out?" Cam smiled at the memory of their first unofficial date even as his heart clenched nervously.

"I believe so."

"And?" He didn't want to seem too eager but he knew her answer would either break his heart or fill it.

"I think-No, I know this is a good different."

"Honey, you have no idea how happy I am to hear you say that." Cam literally sagged in relief, resting his forehead against hers.

"Really?"

"Of course." Cam pulled back a little, surprised by her doubt. He placed his hands on her face, forcing her to look him in the eye. "Hey, you know that I care about you, right?"

Vala only nodded, biting her lip, so Cam continued.

"Vala, this thing between us, I want to see where it goes, okay? But I need to make sure you're on the same page. I don't want to force you into anything. This has to be a joint decision."

A slow smile bloomed on Vala's face as a single tear fell down her cheek. That was all he saw before her lips met his. The sensation of kissing Vala was beyond anything he could have imagined...and he had a good imagination. He felt her arms come around his neck as she pulled herself upward, deepening the kiss. Cam answered by wrapping his own around her waist, holding her as if he'd never let go. To be perfectly honest, that's exactly how he felt even as she drew away. He groaned in displeasure but allowed her to pull back. He kept his arms clasped around her, though, not yet willing to completely lose the feel of her body against his.

"As enjoyable as that was, I don't think this is the proper time or place for it. And we have a concert to get to." Vala grinned, pecking him on the chin before completely disentangling herself from his embrace and opening the passenger door.

"When did you become the level-headed one on this relationship?" he joked but regretted his words the moment he saw her eyes widen. Before he could retract them, she got into the car. Cam closed his eyes and wondered if he's just screwed up probably the best thing that had ever happened to him. Taking a deep breath, he rounded the vehicle and jumped in. Silence settled over them for a few moments before Cam gathered the courage to address the issue he'd created.

"Listen, Vala-"

"No, wait." Vala held up a hand before looking at him. "I-I didn't mean to react that way. It's just the word relationship..."

"I know. I said I wasn't going to rush you and then I went and put a label on it."

"No, no, no! That's not what I meant." Vala told him quickly, grabbing his hand. It's just, I haven't been in a relationship in a very long time. Sure, I've been married a couple of times, but those were mostly out of convenience. I do want a relationship with you, Cameron. But this is something new for me and I don't want to mess it up. Can we just...take things slowly for now?"

"Yeah, of course." Cam squeezed her hand, letting out a breath he hadn't been aware of holding. "We'll move at your pace. I'm in this for the long haul, so there's no need to rush things."

"Thank you, Cameron."

"Any time, Princess." Cam gave her a quick peck on the cheek before turning to start the car. This was something new for both of them so he was fine taking it slowly. He knew they'd get to where they needed to be eventually and he was simply going to enjoy the ride. With Vala, it was bound to be an adventure.

The End