"Put your tears on ice, little girl," Severus said softly, pushing some stray strands of her hair from off her forehead.
Hermione sniffed softly as she looked at him. A random tear slid quickly down her face. He cupped her chin in his hand and smiled down at her.
"Please don't cry, I'm here. Right here." Leaning down he brushed his lips against hers lightly.
She clung tightly onto him. Breaking eye contact and turning away, she buried her face in his shoulder. She inhaled the scent of his cologne mixed with his own natural scent with relief.
He rubbed her back, obviously unsure of what else to do. "Everyone is perfectly fine."
Hermione sniffed. "I'm sorry. I was just worried."
"You have nothing to worry about. I'm here." Severus smiled down at her as she pushed away from his shoulder to look at him. "The others are back, too," he added.
"I know," she sniffed.
"Put your tears on ice, little girl," he repeated, brushing away the tears that were about to escape. She laid her head on his chest and sighed contently.
"I was so worried, Severus. I love you."
He froze for a moment, and for a moment Hermione thought he was as cold as ice. Suddenly his body realized again as his heart raced and he squeezed her gently. He dropped a kiss on the top of her head, but didn't respond.
Hermione smiled, knowing that was his way of saying that the feelings were reciprocated.