He flinches at the hit, more for show than anything else, wearing a wince as he presses his fingers to the spot and rubs in a circle to ease away the hit. In many ways, it's the similarities between Kate and himself that leave Sawyer calm as he glances down at her, daring to let his arms slip around her waist and pull her close in spite of whatever protests she might raise. He knows this territory, knows how to navigate this person and speak her language, a strong anchor in the midst of all the chaos that they've known since arriving on the island.

Letting a finger slide along her hairline, pushing a few strands out of the way, Sawyer lets his free hand sneak further around her waist.

"Hey, the shirt's a good look for you," Sawyer points out, tugging at the hem and letting his gaze wander to where her skin peeks above the collar. "Might've done you a fashion favor."