His eyes warmed, studying her face. "So how does this work?" he asked playfully. "Do I kiss you or something?"
"If you have to ask," Ivy teased, "then maybe you aren't so sure."
"Excuse me for wanting to be a gentleman," Eugene huffed dramatically. He lifted his hand—slowly and cupped her face.
The warmth of his palm spread across her cheek, startling her with how gentle he was. His thumb brushed her skin.
"I am afraid though," he admitted quietly.
Ivy's brows softened. "Of what?" she murmured.
He swallowed. "Of falling… and you not being there when I land."
"Live in the present," she whispered.
Eugene leaned in, closing his eyes. His lips brushed hers, gentle in a way that didn't demand anything. When he pulled away, he ran his thumb over her cheekbone lightly and sighed.
"Yup," he declared, nodding. "Lots of damage."
