Joan is focusing on him and this moment, on how deeply she loves him and how incredible it feels to be loved in return, and how good it feels to be kissing and touching, however gently. She is tempted to touch in places that are sensitive in a good way, but she refrains, seeing as he's still injured and they're still in a hospital. But god are they going to have the best sex of their lives when she comes back from New York. It's amazing how that thought shifts her perspective on being away, that knowledge that there's something wonderful in store for them if they endure.

"I love you," she whispers between kisses.