Her imitation of him was mockingly deep-voiced and sibilant; he gave a cracked laugh and shook his head, sending curls tumbling. As she moved up his body he hauled her gently closer, waited until she had unfastened the last plate from him to kiss her, very gently.

Without the armour he felt insulated from the world. It wasn't unwelcome. He leaned backwards, shoulders and head hitting the mattress, and pulled her atop him, holding tight.