Love Isn't Always Straightforward.
Severus lay down and closed his eyes but apparently Hermione wasn't finished talking to him.
"It's nice being loved, Severus."
Severus resisted the urge to say "indeed" once more. Did Hermione think he couldn't even imagine what being loved felt like? Of course he could- it had been the subject of many of his boyhood fantasies.
"You feel wanted, safe, cared for. You know that when you wake up on Christmas morning they'll be presents under the tree. But mostly, you know that whatever you do, you'll be forgiven, that you can never be…disappointing."
Hermione's voice caught in her throat.
….
What's wrong with Hermione? –sniff- Do you think Sevvie can make it better?