ben spread his cape out , doing much the same shuffling little dance as before . hell , he just wanted to kiss her , period . it 's meant to be a funny , dramatic little thank-you between friends . gently , but a yank nonetheless ; and hard enough to force me to take a step toward him . `` you are as sensible as you are brave . i waited a lot longer than i should have to get mine . '' nix sank back onto his heels , tears stinging his eyes . 