Harry thought for a moment, then nodded. "I'm ready."

He took a breath, looking down and up again. "Hello, Eggsy. As you'll realise from this, rumours of death have been highly exaggerated. I don't know what the future will hold for my recovery, but I don't want your future marred by our fight.

"I am proud of you. I've heard what you did, how you conducted yourself, and I am so incredibly proud of you. Whatever happens to me, I need you to be aware of that. And I am sorry for the things I said to you. I was wrong. I don't often admit that. Look after yourself and your mother and sister. And remember, you've proved them all wrong. Even me. And I couldn't be happier for that."

He sank back into the pillows, worn out.