"Oh-" he says aloud, just a startled syllable escaping as she steps in to hug him. He's surprised, but not at all averse, and it only takes him a second to relax into it, his hands resting gently on her back as he returns the gesture. It's nice. It's really nice.

When she steps back, she looks just as embarrassed as he feels, but he still manages a smile and nods at her suggestion.

"All right," he says, and touches her arm before she can turn away, wanting to make sure she sees him: "Thank you."