Here is where Scipio takes this second kiss: he lets it stay chaste for a moment, a press of his mouth to hers that indicates a gentle enthusiasm. This is good, yes?

But better is the way that he lifts his hand to touch fingertips to the side of her face, a gentle gesture to match, one that goes firmer when he skims his fingertips along so that he has her face cupped instead, and then, to open his mouth against hers, just a little, is the natural thing to do. A move that deepens this kiss, and isn't that better still? It is, she won't argue. Can't argue, not when they are locked in this kiss, too good to part for breath, too engaging to remember the noise of the tavern around them. This is a forever, a silent moment narrowed down to only them.