[Ignis has to admit, of all the reactions he thought Gladio might have to hearing the truth, he and Ardyn being enveloped in the Shield's strong arms had not been among them. Shame washes over him in that moment. If he can have so much faith in Ardyn, why had he not had as much faith in the man who's been his friend for so long? He swears to himself to do better, reminds himself that, perhaps, there are some things--some people--he doesn't have to protect Ardyn from.

Carefully, he pulls his hand free of Ardyn's and then raises it so he can press a finger against the redhead's lips.]

Don't. Is it really so hard for you to accept that another might care for you when I do? Especially when said person cares for me as well?