This picture kind of reminds me of the Panakes tree. (I miss Calla so much!)

If Keefe hadn't interrupted them at the end of Lodestar.

"Or," he said. "We could skip the talking."

"And do what?" she asked, hating her voice for cracking.

"Any ideas?"

He was so close now, she could feel his breath warming her cheeks.

He leaned a tiny bit closer, his hand moving to twirl her hair around his fingers.

"I guess I could think of something," Sophie whispered, surprising herself with her confidence.

Fitz smirked. "Yeah?"

"Yeah," she breathed as he moved closer still, his lips now less than half an inch from hers. She tilted her head up just the slightest bit.

After a few seconds like that, Fitz closed the distance between them, pressing his lips against hers. The kiss was breathtaking and not at all intense, but rather soft and sweet and perfect in every way. After almost a full minute, they pulled apart, Sophie's eyes searching his face, as if trying to find out if what just happened was real.

I think... she transmitted, I should tell you my secret.

Okay, if you're really ready. I won't make you, since that was a pretty good favor. Sophie felt her cheeks flush.

Fitz, I...

Fitz looked at her expectantly, a glint of concern in his eyes.

I like you.

Relief washed over his face. I think after what I just did, it's pretty clear I like you too.

"Really?" she asked out loud.

"Of course."

She grinned, throwing her arms around him and kissing him again. Fitz pulled her closer to him, and they stayed like that as the breeze blew the Panakes petals around them.

Eventually Sophie pulled away, looking into his eyes.

"What?"

"Nothing." She smiled and nuzzled into his chest. She felt him rest his chin on the top of her head. They watched the sun set in each other's arms.

In that moment, everything was perfect.