[ The soft smile widens as she watches him, liking the feel of his thumb brushing along her hand. Bela doesn't quite understand at first why James appears nervous, but there's obviously a reason for it. She keeps her eyes on him, giving his other hand a gentle, reassuring squeeze. ]

Oh. [ Is all Bela can say at first to those words, not expecting them. But she can't just leave it at that, cupping his face gently between her hands to let James know that it was okay and she was here. ]

You should tell me whatever else you need to say and then we'll take it from there. I'm absolutely getting you a Christmas present as well, I just haven't decided what it is.

[ She chuckles, running her thumbs over his cheekbones, her expression open. ]

I'm listening, James. Take your time.