[It's worse, somehow, Loki recognizing the truth. It had been easier when he was happy, or confused, or simply unsure. Now, though, with their hands joined on the dagger, with the truth covering them like a cloud, smothering all the joy and making it hard to breathe... he hates this more. He hates it so much.

He takes a shaky breath, his grip tightening on the dagger, free hand lifting to wind around Loki's shoulders to hold him there, wishing for all the world that he could just pull him free and leave it at that. But magic can't do everything. He knows that all too well now.]

I can't... make you do anything. You have to make that choice. All I can do is help you... and be here till it's over.

[Whether Loki chooses to do this, or... whether they both die, Billy isn't going anywhere. Even if he could escape, after all this, how could he leave?

No. Family means no one gets left behind.

The quote makes him smile, painfully, and think of Teddy. If they die today...

...No. I won't regret this.

At least... I tried.]

You won't be alone. I promise...