[Instinctively, he snatches at her as she hits his chest, not about to let her fall flat on her face in a moment of weakness. He doesn't want to see her like that--it isn't right.]
[Her words are hot against his throat, and his breath stutters imperceptibly. His arms tighten around her waist, pulling her closer even as his head presses against hers.] I don't hate you. [He murmurs again, having to swallow when he realizes how soft her skin feels.]