Filius was a still, prone figure, lying on the ground.

Instinctively, Minerva cast her Patronus even while she reached for Filius. He was breathing. Thank God! There was a pulse, a weak, thready pulse that skipped every fourth beat. However, the Charms Master was soaking wet and too pale.

She cradled him in her arms, knowing that he was in no condition for a Side-Along trip to Poppy's realm.

"Stay with me, love," Minerva pleaded. "I cannot do this without you."

The far too still figure, usually so vibrant and alive, stirred slightly and opened his eyes. When he realized who was holding him, he weakly smiled.

"I'm sorry," he whispered. His voice was so soft that Minerva could barely hear him.

"Don't… don't…waste your energy. You need to rest," Minerva protested as this sounded like a death bed confession.

"I lied," he whispered. "I never ceased loving you… Never stopped hoping… you'd let me in…" He closed his eyes, and Minerva brought him still closer to her, willing him to live because she could not bear to live without him. "When Merry died… the pain… my heart shattered... so happy… you won't know … such agony…Smart girl..."

He closed his eyes and his breathing slowed. Minerva was still clutching Filius when Poppy arrived.