This sort of physical connectivity still feels unnatural to Severus, but for right now, all he wants to do is cling to Lily like he can protect her, fix everything, like maybe they might both drift away into some unknown darkness if they aren't holding onto each other. He's never felt this particular terror before, twisting his insides, everything cold. His mistakes press into his lungs, making him feel like he's moments from suffocating.

Severus shakes his head, not trusting his voice just yet. He knows she tried, but she shouldn't have bargained herself-- she shouldn't have had to, he shouldn't have left her backed into that corner.

He was never safe, but it's not her fault.