[Delicate as the situation is, he can tiptoe around it no longer. With Tifa's package still tucked under his arm, he drops his gaze to one side so that he might collect himself, summon up the courage to confess in full. It would be better, perhaps, if he could look at her directly, but it is difficult to find the nerve to do so when she sounds so very firm.]
no subject
I kissed you.
[He closes his eyes, bracing for impact.
Any moment now—]