Boosting contrast and making this black and white would disguise the obvious flaws here: (1) The coloured noise would be more like acceptable B&W grain. (2) The flat lighting would be strong contrast B&W lighting. Give it a try :)
This image would benefite from neat imge or noise ninja. the noise level is really distracting. The lighting seems uneven (too bright from the right). Not sure this is enough of a close-up to really fit the challenge.
There is obviously a great relation between the two, I would love to see less noisehere to help enhance the impression of a warm and loving relationship.