"Very well," Jack said, smiling slyly. "I shall."

He took his time getting ready - rolling his shoulders, rubbing his hands together -- and then leaned in, put one hand on Karla's back and the other on the back of her head, and let his slightly parted lips meet hers. He was concentrating on making it the best kiss he'd ever given someone he wasn't in love with: This was, after all a matter of pride at this point.