There's never a bad time for something as simple and as meaningful as those glances, whether they're heated and hinting at something better done in private, or gently admiring. Either way, when she catches his eye and he returns it, she always feels a thrill.

Just as she does now, watching him breach what little distance there is between them in order to climb into the too-small bunk with her. It takes some doing, but eventually, they find a comfortable position, and she's soothed by his arms around her, and her head on his chest.

And although she's very well aware that he knows exactly how she feels, she thinks it bears being said out loud, albeit in a quiet whisper. "I love you, too."