As someone who knows the ending, I can safely say this is not a rom-com. Matters of taste aside, however, bringing that up at this juncture probably wouldn't be helpful.

"Okay," Layla said, and let out a breath that was too purposeful and quiet to be a sigh. She put her hands on his shoulders, the way you did when you were about to shake someone awake or say the words Stay with me, here. She ducked her head to an angle where she could meet his eyes.

"Don't panic."

This was some of the better advice that had ever been put to paper, Layla had always thought. It had, at least, served her well on a pretty regular basis since a very early age. It was applicable to just about every conceivable situation, including several she was currently in, not that she had said it for her sake. Or not entirely, anyway.

Before he could argue it, she leaned up and kissed him. Her pulse seemed to jump start.

Don't panic.