Elle can be a tough one to crack, but he hasn't failed thus far. He catches the fleeting moment of amusement in her eyes, but it doesn't expose itself. This'll take some patience and a lot of care.

Challenge accepted.

"Elle..." Kaidan presses his fingers into her shoulders. "That's not something to thank me for. I'm here for you."

Those last four words are heavy with substance.

He wasn't there for her when she was after the Collectors. Heck, he wasn't sure it was even her at the time and he had no way to know for certain.

"Anything you need." Her hair is still up and he leans in to kiss the back of her neck. His voice now carries that gentle husk.

"I love you." And he does. He really does.