His observation gives Felix pause, for a moment – perhaps gives him some comprehension of how closely Jim takes note of his reactions. He’s not used to expecting that kind of attention from most people, and under that gaze he fumbles for an answer. One that dissolves into a wordless intake of breath as the words Jim chose sink in. If he thought it was startling to hear the captain recite love poetry, hearing him use the word and mean it is something else. Hearing him use it for them.

He may well be entranced now, watching Jim with wide eyes until he realizes there’s a question. Clears his throat hurriedly.

“Well- you’ve fed me, plied me with wine, impressed me a few times. Romanced me very… very thoroughly. I think… this is where we leave the list behind.” His hand isn’t trembling faintly. He’s just a little unsteady on these pillows, that’s all.