Padma kissed him back, firmly, intensely, pouring her love and support into the kiss. Her arms tightened around him even more, her hands gripping the back of his shirt.
It was a relief to know that he wasn't drawing away from her anymore, to know that he was able, finally, to come to her for comfort. And, if she were being honest, Padma had to admit that having him here was a comfort to her as well. She hoped he would stay, that he would feel safe here.