There isn't much to do with pity in this situation. Nik's politely brushed off enough of his sisters' friends or people on campus to know how to do so without ruining anyone's day. And he is attracted, but good luck getting a Kent to display those feelings unless they know for sure that bruising feelings won't be an option on either side.

"Eva," he begins, then stops and looks down at her for a moment -- noting the panicked heart rate, and the embarrassment in her gaze. Then he leans forward, gently pressing his lips against hers, though there is a sense that he'll back off if she says 'No' at any time.