[ Ryan's dopey smile echoes in Noh-Varr's chest, and he finds himself returning the kiss, his hand falling to cup Ryan's face, thumbing that smooth jaw. When Ryan pulls away, there's a split second where Noh-Varr moves to pursue, but then abandons the thought when Ryan speaks again. Ryan's humility is something Noh-Varr likes, but the underlying bitterness makes him melancholy. Ryan must have been a lonely child. ]

Humans are one the most creative, diverse species I've ever met--and I used to be part of a crew of intergalactic diplomats, so I don't say that lightly.

[ Propping himself up on his elbows, he hovers over Ryan, his expression fond. ] After all, your species produces individuals like you, or Chidori, or Shepard, or Adrien. They could still surprise you.

[ Gently, he leans down, stealing a second kiss, just as warm and reassuring as the first. ]