What...do I do now? What do I say?

Things hadn't been this awkward before. The two of them had spent time together in the 'Angel Bath', but it hadn't been anything like this. Their conversation had been friendly, them both learning to open up to each other a little more, and he had even felt comfortable enough in her presence to tease her a bit. But once they had got out of the hot, steamy water, things became...uncomfortable. Neither of them were sure what to say or do, and as a result simply stood there, both staring at the tiled floor. They had enjoyed this time together, they both knew that, and had definitely enjoyed each other's company. They wanted to speak to each other, but the words wouldn't come...

He glanced up for a moment, then stared despite his own better judgement. She was standing there, gaze fixed on the floor, hands twisted together. She wore only a white fluffy towel, and her dark hair was coming loose from it's clip, damp strands clinging to the back of her neck. In short, she looked stunning. He badly wanted to talk to her, but didn't know what to say. His heart was racing, nervousness tying his tongue in knots. I'm not used to this. Why am I feeling like this? Finally, after a deep breath, he managed to speak. "Are...you okay?"

She looked up sharply at his voice, as though only just remembering where she was. "H-huh? Oh, oh yes. Thanks..." She blushed, pale pink spreading across porcelain cheeks, then looked down again, lips curved in a shy smile. He smiled back, part in relief, and reached out to take her hand, rubbing her thin fingers with his own. "I should be thanking you," he told her. "For agreeing to this. I hoped that you would...because you always look so lonely.." She looked up at him again at that, her blush deepening, and smiled again. "So do you.." Her normally firm captain's voice was soft, barely audible...but happy.

Even though they had found their voices, the tension was still very much there, both of their hearts still pounding for a reason they couldn't explain. She still gazed up at him, lost in those cobalt-blue eyes that shone with kindness and affection. He was smiling, and all in all...looked incredibly handsome - so much like her Mwu...that it took her breath away. She was conscious of a tightness in her chest, her breathing constricted, and knew that it was due to his closeness. It was something she hadn't felt for a long time, and without realising, she pressed a hand to her chest.

He, on the other hand, reached out carefully to brush aside a lock of hair that was stuck to her cheek. The simple touch sent heat racing to her face, her heart skipping a beat. She closed her eyes, taking a deep breath.

Calm down...

When she had recovered enough, she risked a peek. Their eyes met, and they gazed at each other for what felt like forever - the mutual attraction undeniable. Even though he didn't remember her, even though she was afraid to get too close to anyone again, this was something that had been waiting too long to happen...

His hand, still clasping hers, gently pulled her closer, he leaning down towards her. She, in turn, closed her eyes, letting him wrap an arm around her waist as he drew her near. As their lips met, she moaned softly, not prepared for the rush of electricity that shot up her spine. He closed his own eyes as the kiss deepened, the two of them lost in each other, in the inevitability.

Finally, they broke for air, faces inches apart. The silence was back, but was no longer awkward, gentle smiles on both their faces. They had both wanted this for a long time, to know what it felt like to just give in to their feelings. The only problem now was...where did they go from here?

The question was answered when a call came through, the shrill noise of the comm causing both of them to jump. Shaking her head, she reached out to answer it, glancing up at him almost apologetically. "Yes? Oh, Athrun-kun? Yes, I'm all right, just...out of breath. What's wrong?" At the boy's answer, her slightly flustered expression slowly became the serious captain's face. "I understand. I'll send Akatsuki, okay? Be careful!"

When the call ended, she looked back up at him with a small smile. He grinned back, shrugging, and leaned forward to kiss her cheek quickly before disappearing into the changing room. She sighed, leaning against the wall for support, and pressed her fingers to her lips. They still tingled from the passionate kiss a few moments ago.

It shouldn't have happened...yet it's been waiting to happen...for so long. I didn't want him to kiss me, but at the same time, I wanted it more than anything. I know he's not Mwu, but when I look at him, I can't think of him as anyone else...

My heart doesn't know what it wants. I wonder if he feels the same way?

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( I just wondered...whether there wouldn't be some tension between them. You know, that kind of tension...

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