“And why wouldn’t I?” Still gentle. “No malice in you, and a great deal of diligence. Your displays of what you call ‘wit’ — ”

(This is punctuated with a squeeze of Alistair’s hand.)

“ — aren’t to set yourself above others, but to set others at ease. You love fiercely, with great loyalty. There could never be anyone else.”

Nor will there be, he thinks, and is grateful Alistair can’t see him close his eyes against the sudden pain.