Disclaimer: The harry potter world belongs to J.K. Rowling

I sat on the comfy suede couch in Severus' living room and thought about the last six months. Severus and I have spent most of our time together since that night in the hospital wing. He is currently sitting on the couch next to me with my feet in his lap while he reads. No one would believe me if I told them about this side of Severus. He looks so calm and relaxed as he holds the book with one hand and circles his other around my ankle in a possessive manner. It doesn't bother me that he is so possessive. I know it is just his way of showing that he cares. I can't help but stare at the man before me. When I first started my tentative friendship with Severus, I never dreamed it would come so far.

"What is that mind of yours thinking of, Mara?"

I was startled out of my thoughts and looked up to find Severus smirking at me.

"Nothing much", I said in hopes of not giving away my current train of thought. I knew Severus cared for me but he never talked about emotions. I admit that I sometimes wished he would tell me how he felt.

"I highly doubt that, Mara. Speak your mind woman. I know you have something you want to say.", said Severus as he looked at me intently.

"I think I forgot to grab some of the papers I was going to grade. I am just going to run to my office and then I will be right back", I said in panic. I tried to quickly remove my legs to get up but I found myself pinned to the couch. Severus was leaning over me and pinning me down with his body.

"I don't like to be lied to, Mara. Now tell me!"

I could see that he was getting angry. I couldn't admit what I was feeling. I couldn't risk losing him. I didn't know what to do. Could I really say it? I looked up into his eyes and I saw hurt in them for just a moment. I hurt him because I was afraid of rejection. I looked into his eyes and said the words I always feared saying.

"I love you, Severus."

He looked startled and so many emotions seemed to play over his face as he thought. He closed his eyes and lowered his forehead onto mine. He let out a deep breath and opened his eyes again. He looked deep into my eyes and said, "I love you too, Mara. More than you will ever know." He leaned down and kissed me. It was so gentle and warm and it spoke louder than words.

Please Review! I know this has been a long time coming. Sorry it took so long. Please let know if you'd like to see a side story of the characters. Thanks!