A mutual clash of desires

Both Elahn and Gaiya are feeling the other's breech-of-personal-space as evidenced by their ears being back. But ... both are also really wanting to check out the others' nose and mouth odors (something adults would never permit).

As they mature, personal space defense will suddenly take priority for one, spit threats followed by the real thing will ensue, and they will evolve ever closer to adult social behavior.