[Shakes his head quickly, not dismissing it, just -- not wanting for him to have to feel bad about that, not wanting him to hold back with his feelings]
No, it's fine. [...] You're right. You're not the kind of man who ever could -- you never could be that man. Even Athos must know that.
[Takes up his hands, squeezing them gently]
... Dunno how much it's worth, coming from me - I know it isn't what you want, but...
But that child will never not know love in his life. He'll always have someone who loves him, unconditionally, and without expectation of anything in return. That's the best gift he can have... that's what anyone would want. [Even princes.]