Charles nearly let out an awkward squawk in surprise as Cassandra threw herself towards him all limbs and hair. But once her arms were around his neck, his shock faded to a grin. He lifted his own arms around her and then he even dared to plant a chaste kiss on her hair.
It was safe with Cassandra. He loved her in a way that was acceptable and while he still worried what others might think, because he always worried about that, he wasn't going to let that interfered with his friendship with her.