[He feels that similar ache, the thought of her feeling guilty and him indulging and accepting in it as well. Eustace never really thinks about it given how mature Tifa is, but there are times when he remembers that he's the older one in this relationship—much older—and while he's still new at it all, too, he should at least try and help look out for the both of them just as she does.

Yet even so, again there is a bit of comfort knowing that once again, even in this they seem to be on the same page. So he just lightly nuzzles her, fingertips gently caressing her cheek as he gives a slight shake of his head.]

Don't. If you do, you'll have to keep in mind that I share in that guilt.

[There's a soft, wane smile as his eyes reach hers.]

And... Given everything, I don't think it's so inexcusable that we end up taking this path. Especially now...with what happened... Like you, I prefer action over words.... And I can always feel your sincerity and reassurance through it.

[A small, light kiss.]

As long as we continue the dialogue after... I think it's fine to use each other as comfort so we can get into a better place first.

[As he said, at least in this case... Making love was really the most certain way that both of their insecurities could be alleved a bit. Him believing she could never love him again out of fear of what he did...and her believing he would not look at her the same because of her scars. They kept trying to say otherwise, but it was only through that act of love that the point could really be driven home.

Just like they are now, neither wanting to shy away from the other except out of their own insecurity about themselves. Each touch, each kiss, each caress—all of it carried what they really mean. What they really want. And that's each other.]