It was said in jest and likely without much thought, but Hermione's heart clenched at the harmless endearment. She didn't bring attention to how strange it was to hear him say that word after so many years. The moment they were having was far too enjoyable to ruin. It didn't really matter anyway. So many years had passed. Neither of them were even the same person they used to be. Instead of focusing on the particular word he used, she responded to his entire question.