When Outlander: Blood of My Blood began, longtime fans had reason to wonder whether the prequel would explore the beginnings of Murtagh Fitzgibbons Fraser’s relationship with Jocasta. After all, their romance in Outlander became a fan favorite, even if it didn’t have the happiest ending.

But the STARZ prequel has taken Murtagh (Rory Alexander) in a different direction, introducing Grace (Ruby Fubara) and giving the two characters a slow-burning romance that has quickly won viewers over.

By Episode 207, their feelings finally come to the surface. And while their first kiss is a long-awaited romantic moment, it’s also something much more meaningful for two characters who have spent so much of their lives putting other people first.

I spoke with Alexander and Fubara about bringing Murtagh and Grace’s relationship to life, how they approached the couple’s first kiss, and what makes this younger version of Murtagh so special to watch.

Men’s Journal: When Blood of My Blood started, fans already knew about…