[Resisting the urge to step back, Benedict just slouches a bit instead-- he's very good at being tall and commanding attention when the time is right, but in moments like this, when all he wants to do is sink into the floor, it's hard not to allow a little bend in his spine and a stoop in his knees.]

I told her several times that I didn't want it, ser, [he says, taking care to speak up, but not too much.

It wasn't enough, and that much is clear; but if the lesson here is to not roll over every time he's confronted, despite how badly he wants to in this case, he's doing his best.]