Remus' smile is wide and joyfully happy. He lowers his head, humbled by Severus. He knows how this is a huge step for his lover.

Remus kisses Severus' palm and exhales a little shakily.

"I love you and trust you, Severus. With my life. Unconditionally."

It's almost ritual-like, this exchange of statements. Vows, even.

He feels closer to Severus than ever before.

Looking up again, still smiling Remus moves his hand to the back of Severus' neck and kisses him sweetly. Sealing a promise? That's what it feels like, to him.

"I wish you didn't have to go back," he whispers when the kiss breaks. "I miss you and worry for you so much, when you're gone. It feels like..."

He shrugs.

"It sounds stupid. But you take a part of me with you, every time you leave."