Sometimes being up front about it is the best course of action. It's just a matter of gauging the right time to drop the line. If she really likes you, but still says no, she won't be put off by it, either. She'll just tell you there's a time and place for stuff like that later.
A somewhat awkward beginning to their relationship, yet a very genuine feeling of Sweet Vanilla love, just the way I like it. Seeing them both embarrassed after the confession just made it all the better, really.
Great ending, too. A nice story, great characters, lovely tags that aren't wasted...And of course great art, just a great release all around.