[Holds him close, rubbing his back gently, forehead still pressed to his and breathing out quietly]
I'm-- [sorry. But he already said he wouldn't say that, but...] You won't lose me forever. [Sob he's not sure how much that helps.] I wish you wouldn't have to wait so long, but... But I will come back to you. I promise you that.
[Pets his hair gently] It's alright to feel sad. But... you won't 'lose' me. I'll come back. I will.