Ned's expression changes, goes colder and more somber.
"Had you welcomed these attentions," he says, "I would have to believe that a man who's my brother in law -- or as good as -- would willingly tear into my foster-brother's heart, leave it bleeding out, and rend his family apart, cast his children aside, for a moment's pleasure. I know you, Aaron. You are clever, gallant, and charming among far more than just your husband -- but you love him. I've seen you reach for his hand when you think no one is watching, just to hold it. I've seen how you look at him when he enters a room. I've seen how he looks at you. And, by God, if you are, by some touch of the Devil, not the man I know, I pray you lie to me, for I want no part in souring Alexander's devotion to you. Now, for all that is holy, tell me if you are injured."
no subject
"Had you welcomed these attentions," he says, "I would have to believe that a man who's my brother in law -- or as good as -- would willingly tear into my foster-brother's heart, leave it bleeding out, and rend his family apart, cast his children aside, for a moment's pleasure. I know you, Aaron. You are clever, gallant, and charming among far more than just your husband -- but you love him. I've seen you reach for his hand when you think no one is watching, just to hold it. I've seen how you look at him when he enters a room. I've seen how he looks at you. And, by God, if you are, by some touch of the Devil, not the man I know, I pray you lie to me, for I want no part in souring Alexander's devotion to you. Now, for all that is holy, tell me if you are injured."