Ruby couldn't help but grin at Loki's startled look, mostly because it was so entirely rare for him. He had always been gentlemanly and kind to her, but his approach had always been one more of cool, dry detachment than anything else. She was fond of him, and thought that the sentiment was at least somewhat returned in kind. Otherwise, she might've held off from what she was about to do

When he made his way to his feet, Ruby moved in to wrap her arms around his middle, pulling herself in for a tight, sincere hug. He was warm and solid, the material of his shirt surprisingly soft against her cheek where she tucked it against his chest. She could feel his surprise at her actions, which also made her smile. She didn't know whether people just didn't often offer to hug Loki or if he was the sort who just didn't welcome them, but she found she liked hugging him as she was just then, and hoped that if she tried again in the future he would not be too terribly upset.

"You're very smart," she told him as she hugged him. "So smart, and wonderful to boot. Thank you." She leaned away from the hug just enough to lean up to press a kiss to his cheek, then stepped back from him with a smile. "I've tainted your beauty," she said as she began to rub gently at the lip print she'd left on his cheek with her thumb. "Don't want anyone thinking I came in here and made ill use of my friend."