Thrawn hadn't let anyone in the Empire know that he had feelings for Eli, for it may have been used as fuel to destroy them both. Certainly, the Emperor himself might have used Eli and Thrawn's feelings to his advantage, seeing Eli as Thrawn's weakness. But, it seemed neither of them could hide anything from observant humans and Chiss alike when they were together.

When Eli kissed him, Thrawn paused for a second, before he leaned into it and kissed back. Eli's lips were soft against his, and pleasantly warm.