[Bruce laughs quietly, shaking his head.] Nat, you could have stabbed me in the heart, and I'd still remember the kiss first and foremost. [It was the only one he thought he'd ever get, and that moment of passion was something he could have lived within for eternity given the chance.

He doesn't want or need her to apologize. He agrees with her. It was the right thing to do. Running away is what he does best and it was his instinct, but he was reverting to his old self, not sticking with his personal growth since joining the Avengers. It did come at a high personal cost. The Hulk took over for years because of it, but he still would not put that on her shoulders.

Despite the kissing and their closeness, he still is surprised when she says it is mutual. He knows the affection is mutual, that she still wants him for some reason, she's been clear about that. But the depth her feelings and that it hasn't changed in all these years? It awes him. He smiles wider than usual and looks at her with all of his feelings plain on his face and gaze, but it fades as quickly as it comes.]

I'm, um, not sure ... how much I can offer yet. He's been quiet so far, but I haven't tried .... [This is a point of nerves for him. He hasn't had reason to talk about it, but it came up a few times here, with people checking in about him and the Hulk. Bruce's answer is that he doesn't know. This is the first time he wants to know, and this conversation is awkward, and a bit presumptuous, but it feels necessary too. They're adults.] I want to try, um, carefully, with your safety in mind. [He has the most beautiful woman in the world kissing him.] It might require some patience. If that's not a deal breaker? [He really hopes not.]