[ He's actually not going to brush her off at all. In fact, he's certain he'd never brush her off, not for anything. He's been brushed off more than once and he's still not a fan of it. Not that he'd ever say it. ]

Yeah, we're a couple. Which- [ Look, sometimes he does his best thinking when he's trying to not think about something else. ] About that... I'm thinking it's about time we make it official, 'cause, correct me if I'm wrong here, but you're not ready for it to be public knowledge, are you? That's totally fine, by the way. I don't mind. Besides, isn't it more special if it's just our secret for awhile longer?

[ He smiles for the first time in awhile, and it's an actual genuine smile. ]

It's our secret, and the world has no idea about it. It's ours, something that belongs to only us. I was thinking the other day about it: rings. That's a couple thing, right? And I figure you don't even have to put it on your finger if you don't want to.

[ He eyes her carefully, consideringly. ] How about a ring on a chain? Easily hidden under clothes. I'm still plotting out designs, but I think I've got a good idea.