[What does he even say to that. His mouth opens, but there are no words. His throat feels tight with something he can't pinpoint. He's going to ruin the moment if he keeps gaping like a fish, but he also doesn't want to open his mouth too quick. The last thing they need is Vash saying something stupid and ruining the moment.]

You - [He shouldn't laugh, not when they're sharing such a tender moment, but it bubbles up all the same. He squeezes his eyes shut, trying to will himself to, for once in his life, not be a fool.] Jeez, you really know what to say, huh?

[They're so close right now. Closer, certainly, than Vash has been to anyone in as long as he can remember. He feels like a boy all over again, with a racing heart and a tangled tongue. His mind does his best to sour it, but for once its laid to rest by the kind words of another.]

It's funny, though. [His hand, one of flesh, lifts and comes to rest over Pure Vanilla's own. He relishes the warmth beneath his skin, thumb circling the back of his companions unconsciously. Part of him resolves to commit this to memory — so that he won't ever forget how it felt to feel so close to someone again. When was the last time it had even happened like this? It had to have been some decades, judging by how hot his face is getting. He hopes Pure Vanilla can't feel it.

Right, what was he saying?]

I don't think anyone's ever saw through me like that. You - you, ah - must be somethin' real special, Pure Vanilla.