[His gaze snaps up at last, surprise and hurt flashing across his face.]

Do you really think I would lie to you on this, Bran? [It's hurt and harsh, for all that he's struggling to keep himself calm. You know me better than that, he doesn't say.] I'm sorry, I failed you, [as much good as those two words will do them both now] but I swear, I'm not lying to you. Not about this.