What is it that you worry for, Tim? Was there a lover amongst the men present earlier? I do not intend to keep you as one, if that is your worry. Mother wants me to make an advantageous match, however that should happen.

[ he wears the cut on his lip with an arrogance, to be true. he appreciates the pain of it; it's something to focus on, something to feel that is different from the impotent rage he's been nursing all day.

that said; ]

My mother holds love for an old friend who has betrayed her. I cannot speak for the nature of it, though I have my suspicions.

I will not tell my mother. You are free to, if you like. But you received me. Did you mislike it?