"No, this is going to work," she said countered, the amusement in her voice making her sound no less determined. Not waiting for his reaction, she reached up to place her right hand on his shoulder, sliding it up until it cradled his neck. Up on her toes again, she pressed her lips against his, less gently than he had done, as if giving him permission to respond however he wished. She was well aware of the fact that they were standing on a very public beach, but that worry was secondary to the wants and needs she felt in that moment.