His arms loosened and Malou leaned back reluctantly, instantly missing his arms around her and the warmth and security they had provided. She expected a look of worry or seriousness on his face, but instead that boyish grin was across his lips. The sound of a chuckle made Malou smile in response. Hearing him chuckle after the stress of the day was almost as soothing as his arms had been.

"You're forgiven." Malou tried to answer primly, even though there was a soft smile still tilting her lips. "But you really do need to be careful." This time some of the worry slipped into her scolding. But she wanted him healed and whole so that they could have these moments without guilt. It was rare that they did in the first place, Faustus was always so cautious and careful with her. Or at least he was relatively guilty when they found themselves in a position like this - as they had at Christmas and Valentine's day.