Severus nodded slowly, licking his lips, and moved his hands to rest at her waist again -- never more sure that he needed to keep them in neutral territory than he was now. He leaned forward, again slowly, and pressed his lips to hers, softly. If she felt the need to deepen the kiss, he would let her, but for now, he was determined -- yet again -- to move at Mary's pace and not to rush her. That was more important now than ever before.