He should have known better. He really should have but he'd been trying to be honest and open because the lack of that got him in this place to begin with. This time when he smiles it's genuine but sad, one hand lifting to press lightly to his cheek again. "You can't stop me, Remus. If you stop me then none of this will ever end and I can't live knowing I could have resolved everything. Please don't ask that of me."

There's a lingering silence after that, heavy with meaning. He should be leaving but he's considering his options, trying to make sure Remus won't be able to follow him. He wants to say something, anything—and what comes out isn't what he'd initially intended.

"Tell me you don't really think I'm like them, Remus." It's hoarse as it passes his lips, his eyes closed so he can't see his face. "I don't care if you really mean it or not, just make me believe you think better than me of that. Please, I need to hear it."

(He hates himself a little more for being this weak.)

"Please."