[This is so much the opposite of anything it wanted to happen, and it can't help but feel irritated with itself. How could it be so short-sighted?

Its expression and body language do nothing to reflect its irritation with itself, however; only L will know of it.

It speaks aloud, answering both of their lines of inquiry at once:]

I was concerned that Rich's actions and words would influence our relationship.

[It didn't want to lose Connor.

It meets Connor's gaze as it speaks, its expression even, much more solemn than he's seen in quite a while.]

Our... alliance is too valuable. I had hoped to offset any damage his presence might have caused.

[It waits-- it allows both its Bonded and Connor to react before it continues, addressing Rich's post further.]