A/N: Severus learns that forgiveness is everything. AU, of course, as Severus is still alive. My first SS/HG fic.
It was dark. The lack of illumination suited him perfectly; its gentle presence wrapped itself around him and gave him a little comfort. His head rested on his steepled fingers, hair falling over his face; hiding his eyes.
Squinting in the shadows she kept her breathing light; not wanting him to know she was there just yet. Just another minute …
His face contorted with pain as everything he thought had been long buried bubbled back up inside him like bile. His hands dropped as fists onto the table. The dull thud not even startling him. It had been so long, so why did it choose to come back now? Hadn't he suffered enough? Self-pity is unbecoming, Severus. Stop it at once. Albus' voice echoed in his ears. Then they all began to speak; words he couldn't make out. Then, calm washed over him. It was- was forgiveness! They didn't blame him for the things he had to do. Tears flowed freely down his sallow cheeks. He had no inclination to brush them away. He felt her then.
Laying her arms around him from behind, she pressed a kiss to the back of his neck. "It's okay, sweetheart. It's gonna be okay," she whispered into his hair. He held her arms around her and nodded. They forgive me, Hermione. He couldn't bring himself to speak, so instead projected his voice into her mind. He felt her smile. I know, Severus. But you knew that a long time ago. Tonight you've finally forgiven yourself. She was right, his burden felt lighter. He had her to thank. She rescued him; everyone else thought him dead but she got to him in time to save him. He thought back then that he hadn't wanted to be saved, that he didn't deserve to live. She showed him different; with her light, love and selflessness. I love you. She felt it radiate through her, a gentle warmth washing over her. I love you too, darling. Now, come to bed. Tomorrow is the day the rest of our lives begin.
A/N: Reviews would be lovely. No flames though please.