She began by smiling, even though he had his eyes closed, because she had a theory that other people could feel it if you were smiling. So she was smiling. But as he began talking, the smile slowly dimmed, replaced by a look of complete wonderment and awe.
It was even more amazing than she'd anticipated. She'd read the words. She'd heard his voice. But still, Philotes had been unprepared for the combination of the two. Somehow, when his voice blended with the words, when he spoke them, it was as though he was talking only to her. It was like the hymn was written for her. It made her feel worshiped and desired, and Lottie felt a warm flush that began in her chest spreading slowly outwards.
When Hedylogos finally stopped speaking, she sat for a long moment, all but holding her breath. Then she bent forward to duck her head a bit, which allowed her to do what she'd wanted to do since the fourth stanza. Lottie kissed him full on the mouth with all the adoration she was suddenly feeling.