caress

(noun) a gentle affectionate stroking (or something resembling it). Examples: "He showered her with caresses." "Soft music was a fond caress." "The caresses of the breeze played over his face."

(verb) touch or stroke lightly in a loving or endearing manner. Synonyms: fondle. Examples: "He caressed her face." "They fondled in the back seat of the taxi."