Exactly. The show didn't necessarily need the big gestures, although the skating rink was a pretty large & pronounced gesture but so incredibly original & sweet in its purpose. Their chemistry kept growing each & every season, and just as a friendship that's lasted many years did it develop into something more, which felt very organic in nature. They were meant to be, plain and simple.

And you're right, Lindsay, Luke WAS pining. She's his Ava Gardner (LOVE an old classic film reference! )