[ He stops. Sort of. It is not a sudden, straight-backed stop of guilt or shock. It is a slowing, one step taking a longer moment than the one prior, the last one heavy with suppressed aggravation. A hand goes to his hip, his posture impatient. For a long moment he does not turn around.

When he does: ]

If you're having complications from Morgoth's magic, I can take a look at it again. If you need a therapist, you'll have to go elsewhere. Xenogen does not currently employ one.

[ Really, though, why isn't doing him a favor enough? Did William bring him here with a bullshit request just to try and have a heart to heart? The manipulative bent to telling him something that's supposed to be wrenching and sad as he tries to leave makes him bristle. What's he supposed to do with this information? Pat William on the shoulder and tell him it's fine? Give him a hug? Write a sad poem? Everyone suffers. William is not special for it, and blurting it all out does not make him want to turn his gaze soft and apologize. Severus cares about William in his own way, but whatever it is that the other man wants from him, Severus does not want to give.

(He will not forget any further revelation about what kind of monster Morgoth was.) ]