[ It's an impossible situation in a lot of ways. It's not what either of them wanted. It's not what either of them anticipated, but maybe that was the problem. Ignis touches fingertips to his chest, stroking over the ring he still wears under his shirt like it's a worrystone and then turns his attention back to Noctis, watching him stab at his meal as if that'll fix things. ]

I'm doing this because it's the easiest option. Not because I like it.

[ Do as you like, as if Ignis isn't telling him this because they both need to know it, to work out another plan if something goes south. Ignis isn't the only one who will be held responsible here. ]

This is to protect you, Noctis, from the potential backlash.