Page 297 - The Book Thief

Another note of interest is that Rudy did not attempt to leave the devastatingly
cold water as soon as he held the book in his hand. For a good minute or so, he
stayed. He never did explain it to Liesel, but I think she knew very well that the
reasons were twofold.

THE FROZEN MOTIVES OF RUDY STEINER

After months of failure, this moment was his only chance to revel in some
victory.

Such a position of selflessness was a good place to ask Liesel for the usual
favor.

How could she possibly turn him down?

How about a kiss, Saumensch?

He stood waist-deep in the water for a few moments longer before climbing out
and handing her the book. His pants clung to him, and he did not stop walking.
In truth, I think he was afraid. Rudy Steiner was scared of the book thiefs kiss.
He must have longed for it so much. He must have loved her so incredibly hard.
So hard that he would never ask for her lips again and would go to his grave
without them.