[She's a little startled at the abrupt change and the kiss. It's been a while and--it's never quite been like this. She takes in his words, thinking about them but not quite looking him in the eye even as she slides her arms around his neck.

Though at the mention of Crocodile she smirks and does look into his eyes, moving one hand to stroke his cheek]

I was in control. I had something that he wanted which gave me a certain amount of freedom [she traces her fingers along his jaw] but I had my own gambit to run and he still played right into my hands.

[Luffy had upset the balance considerably and things had happened much quicker than she'd intended and--in quite a different way, she had to admit but in the end it was better for all concerned]

It was even a little thrilling sometimes to see just what I could get away with. [Though she'd never tried to tip the boat too far]