Warmth.
Peace.
Joy.
Protection.
All these were what Feyri wished for; now being provided by one who didn't even know the subtle intricacies of humanity before coming to the HMRC. She couldn't say a word as he made his move, and appreciated that she didn't. It was like in those retro-romance novels she read in her earlier years: a man courts a woman after knowing her for quite some time, then they go to a wonderful natural location followed by getting to know each other personally with no barriers involved climaxing at the kissing scene she so wonderfully awaited. But this was different, as though it was a virtual reality, the realistic things were what had just occurred -- Jim, and everything else.
In a shallower sense, it was like talking to a close friend, with no fear at all of insecurity or getting hurt by the other party. Complete trust, mellowed by their dialogue, and spurned on by sincerity.
"There are fish," she said, consciously ignoring the fact that she was blushing, "and this is also the first time I've ever been treated like this."
No matter the amateurism, she didn't need to hide the fact that this was also her first time. She could confide in Jim, and know that he wouldn't betray her either. There was this intangible bond that formed throughout the adventure, seemingly reinforced by the facts of reality, and one which started on the trivial notion of death.
"Jim," Don't mess this up now... "out of most of the other people I've met on the ship, you were the most open to me and who cared about me in out-of-mission duty, and I've no other way on how to say this...So I'm just going to say it straight."
Don't say think. Don't say think! You've thought about this long enough
"I t-" Great...
She took his hands from her waist and clasped them in her own, taking a deep breath before looking him in the eye. "I think I'm falling in love with you."