He shook his head. "Snape tried. For years. The Dark Mark keeps pulling on the runes, slowly poisoning me. It’s fine. I’ve accepted my outcome. I’m not scared of death. I’m only scared of losing you." His thumb traced her jawline gently. "Losing the chance to marry you. To grow old with you. I wanted more time to love you because Merlin it’s the best feeling I’ve ever had."