At least he is now aware of the nature of his own emotions. Now all we have to do is make sure he finds out about Harry’s. That can’t be that hard, can it? :D
You're right - is is progress that Severus has (at least) recognized and acknowledged his own feeling towards Harry. It took him only 21 chapters to come so far...

You're on ch21 already. That means there are only 14 more days for you to feel like strangling Severus every single time you read about his ridiculous levels of obliviousness. Isn't that a soothing thought? :D :D :D
Um, somehow I don't feel 100% reassured by your wording.... (-_-)'