He wasn't sure she believed him, wasn't sure he was even able to lie to her, as he never tried. Inside there was something wishing her there, with him, her cool hands on his overheated skin.
'Narcissa, my love,' he said, but he could not bring himself to put her in danger, or admitting that he was less than fine. Closing his eyes for a moment, he sighed. 'Words cannot describe how deeply I love you,' he said instead, giving her a soft smile.
He would not put his family in danger. He could not. They're safety had to come before his own comfort. It was unfortunate when the two conflicted, a situation that was becoming annoyingly common.
'Do take care, my darling. And stay inside until it's completely safe. I do not want you catching this. I would be lost without you.' That at least was the truth. He would be.