Answer: hugging

AnswerCrossword Clue
HUGGINGKeeping close to.
HUGGINGActivity at a reunion
huggingSqueeze (someone) tightly in one's arms, typically to express affection
huggingHold (something) closely or tightly around or against part of one's body
huggingKeep close to
huggingCherish or cling to (something such as a belief)
huggingFit tightly around
huggingHUG, to clasp tightly in the arms
huggingCongratulate or be pleased with oneself