"No, you didn't," he agreed, knowing because he had done his best to keep track of him thorugh the years. "But then I thought it was better if I did. Do you think I didn't hear the wear both ways spoke of me? Of seeing you moving on with your life and wondering..."

He shook his head. "The truth was, I wasn't ready to face you. You gave me an out, Potter, and instead I followed Father. I didn't want to see that look on your face. Now though..."

Then his gaze did drop. "They got my mother. About a month ago. She put herself in front of me, Harry. Second time in my life my mother has put herself, or gotten another to put themselves, between me and certain death. Both she and that person are dead now," he said, looking up at Harry. "So before I'm next, I needed to see you again. One more time. It's selfish, I know, but what else do you expect from me?"

He offered a smile then, so much like the smirk of his youth.