[Thank heavens for not checking his pulse, and instead challenging him to say the word -- or at least confirm it -- in return. At least with the latter he can school his expression to his liking. He certainly has no such control over his heart rate.

Still, there's little actual cognizant control he needs to apply to said expression. His answer is airy but sincere.]

I thought my feelings would have been clear through my actions alone. But if I've left room for doubt, that won't do.

[And, with confidence:] I refuse to change my mind. Thus, the dating is official.