Clearly, a different tack is in order.

Kate nimbly catches one of his hands and pulls it into her lap. The dress well covers her legs, but his fingers rest at the inside of her knee, while her other hand covers his knuckles. She runs her thumb against the back of his hand.

Distraction. Distraction is key.

After a moment or two, she tilts her head back to focus her blue-eyed stare on him. And she smiles.