Responding carefully to the kiss, Sirius held Remus as tightly as he could and traced his fingers gently down his cheek and jawline. As much comfort and reassurance as he tried to put into the embrace, he was sure he was trying to take twice as much for himself. God, he bloody needed this. He needed Moony, needed moments like this, needed these reminders of why he hadn't let Azkaban take him down, why life was truly worth living. And the thought of being without them, without Remus, was several steps beyond unbearable.
He breathed deeply and slowly and a little shakily when the kiss ended, eyes still closed. He still didn't let his hold on the other man loosen. It was a long time before he found the will to speak again. When he did, the words were quiet, but absolutely, unquestionably sincere. "We've both had our share of bad luck, Moony. I wish to Merlin I could take away all the pain you've had to face all these years. I can't do that. But... but I dare anyone to try to take you away from me now. I promise you, Remus, they will wish they were in Azkaban."