He startled a bit, only because he'd been focusing on helping Aoba escape, but he didn't hesitate to return the kiss. Perhaps surprisingly, he made a soft, pleased sound into the kiss. Probably just still a bit too drowsy to silence himself in time. Whatever the case, he raised his topmost hand to gently cup the back of Aoba's neck, deepening the kiss just a moment before releasing him and smiling far more brightly.

"I can't think of anything better to start my day," Declan remarked softly, tongue darting across his lips, cheeks flushed a light lavender hue.