He paused before giving her a slow smile, one that reached his eyes. Stepping outside, he closed the door behind him with a small click.
There was a pause before the door opened and he came back in quickly, crossing to her in two steps and hugging her fiercely.
She wrapped her arms around him, delightfully surprised. "I love you, I love you, I love you," she said quietly under her breath, her grip warm.
He buried his face in her neck, saying nothing, but holding her close to his chest, and she would be able to feel his arms shaking.
He sighed and pulled away after a minute, kissing her deeply. "I love you too," he murmured quietly, his lips brushing hers. "I have to go now, though. For real, this time."
He stepped out, swinging his bag over his shoulder again. He reached out and cupped her jaw with his free hand, his thumb brushing her cheekbone before he turned and disappeared into the dark.