Disclaimer: The usual. Just for fun.
AN: And we're back. Tag. ~Ana
"Take it, Severus... I dare not touch what it is meant to contain."
His eyes fixed on ornate grooves flaring at his touch; his soul rending from the very thought.... "No...."
"Severus..." Dumbledore shifting in his chair. "... you must agree – given your task – and promise. You will most surely die without its protection."
His hand spreading over the burning case, thumb on the latch. "Death would be preferable...."
Dumbledore's eyes boring into his: "You will not forget."
–-
Severus opened his eyes, his fingers gripping the chair's arm tight enough to tear.
"Liar."