"It's kind of annoying that the island is making us do this," Evan admitted, frowning a little. "I always try not to lie, but at least I get to pick and choose what I share. Today's been a pain that way."

A pause and then he was offering her a tentative smile. "And I don't think you'd drool on me. I don't have any experience with kissing, either, so at least we'd be on the same learning curve. But I'd be okay with hand-holding if you're worried about it..."