He breathes out. "It's not that at all. I mean... you're incredibly beautiful, and, well..." His voice drops to a hissing whisper. "And you were naked."

His voice returns to normal, though there's definite blushing there on his cheeks. "I just wanted to... respect you."

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"The towel covered more of me than my swim suit," she pointed out. "But, I wouldn't change anything about you, so I do apologize for making you uncomfortable. I didn't think there was anything questionable about my boyfriend waiting in my quarters while I finished getting ready for a date. I should have asked if you were all right with it."

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He blinks. "I just..." He thinks for a moment. "It's not that it's questionable, or that I was uncomfortable. I just wouldn't want you to think I was trying to take advantage of you."

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"That is one thing I'm not worried about with you," she said simply.

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"Oh," he says quietly.

"Then... next time I won't try hard to not look?" he says, as if asking for permission.

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"The next time you won't try hard not to look," she said with a firm nod. "I like that you don't assume but maybe communication is something we should work on?"

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"Okay," he nods. "So... when should we discuss barriers and limits?"

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A slow smile appeared. She decided it was a good thing they were in public right now because she was tempted to indulge in a public display of affection just for that expression alone.

"Later, when our date is over. Otherwise I'll be too distracted by your barriers and limits."

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He considers. "Alright. Though I am left wondering how much of this is cultural."

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"Possibly quite a bit. Although if you tell me that my father hasn't been a barrier, I'll say you're hedging."

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