[ "She will never be your guest again." Well, that's only music to his ears--nothing against Lynette, of course, but rather the principle that people ought not live their lives with Wriothesley as common company. If Lyney intends to make sure she never lands herself back in this place, all the better.

Interesting that he designates Lynette as the one who's faced the world's cruelties. Anyone can see the two are practically attached at the hip. Would that not mean, then, that Lyney has also faced his share of indignity? Who protects him when Lynette cannot? Questions he'll hold on to for now. What a tea time this has turned into. Unfitting of an ordinary Earl Grey, that's for certain. ]

You know that I never truly meant her harm, right? [ If they're to truly settle this as best they can, Wriothesley feels he ought to clarify that. ] Nor Freminet. Whether or not you had given me what I asked for, neither would have been in any danger. The only true gamble on my part was whether or not you'd fold.

[ A short, but unintentionally heavy pause. ]

I'm...not one to hurt children.

[ He means to say it as naturally as possible. What can be more natural, anyhow? What should come easier than that? But Wriothesley has faced a few cruelties of his own, and knows the world doesn't always hold itself to common sense. ]