Desmond didn't know if Leonor knew how she affected his heart when she praised him in such a way.
The insecurities that deeply scarred his heart made him resistant to her words. He wanted to argue, but he had no evidence to refute her statements. When he was met with such a loving gaze, words were lost on his tongue.
He forgot how to speak during times like that. It was why he had to become a better kisser to communicate when words didn't quite fit what was going on in his head or how she was stirring up his heart.
"I'm more impressive with you next to me," he said, words encroaching on argumentative but not wanting to ruin the peace.
"I'm serious," Leonor responded. "Your body moves without thought. You become entirely instinctual just as–"
She stopped herself and blinked a few times. Her face was already red due to the warm water but it became worse.