It's an admission though. A request for a cover or a sane decision based on any number of reasons ungiven, accepted without question. But it's the same as having said he couldn't. Wouldn't. Wasn't. Giving an excuse, a lie, even. (To Carlise. Only.) Edward who was beyond a master at them. Had to be. Every millisecond he spoke to any person.

And wasn't that glorious advocacy of a family member.

Edward's face contorted around a grimace formed only on his lips.