"Hold me... just hold me."

And so Frederic did, cradling her in his arms and occasionally swaying just the slightest as he slowed his racing heart. He breathed in her natural scent, one that he hoped to be able to grow accustomed too, and leaned his chin gently on her head. He ran his tongue over his lips at one point, remembering their kisses as a cozy sort of warmth spread throughout his chest, replacing the feverish clutch he'd felt on his heart when they were locked in that embrace. He closed his eyes and felt his breathing sync with hers. He hadn't let the moment go to waste when he'd had the chance, but now as he stood there, just holding her tight, warm, in his arms, he felt a twinge of worry. What came next? Surely they couldn't return to simply friendship- their connection was just too strong, and after that initial kiss, there was really no going back. It was either complete separation or further steps- what would it be? Of course, he would agree to whatever Karen wanted- but by all that he held dear, he longed for her to choose the latter.