Severus was scooped up and placed onto the Dark Lord's lap, causing him to shrink back in a startled shudder. Lord Voldemort felt a pang of heartache beyond measure as his fingers traced the sharp, protruding ribs.
The terrified look in the eyes of the man in his arms—who wanted to embrace him yet dared not—pierced Lord Voldemort to the quick. Pulling him tightly against his chest, he felt Severus trembling involuntarily.
What is wrong with him? My beloved, what on earth has happened to my Severus?
Chapter 49