The color drained from his face in an instant, and his eyes, usually full of amusement, filled with shock and a trace of anger.
"Has he gone mad?! Why would I kill Jon Arryn? He was my brother's Hand, the man Robert trusted most!"
Littlefinger's voice remained steady, a smile on his lips. "Lord Eddard seems to have uncovered some clues about your grand plan, the one about finding King Robert a younger, more beautiful Queen, one who better represents spring and vitality?
"For instance, a certain rose from Highgarden?"
Renly's pupils suddenly contracted.
This was almost his deepest, most secret scheme.
He was confident he had kept it secret enough, having discussed the idea only with a handful of his closest confidants.
How could Eddard Stark possibly know?!
He felt a chill rise up his spine, instantly overwhelming the stifling heat inside the tent.
If Eddard knew about this and had also absurdly pinned Jon Arryn's death on him, what did that mean?
"H-how could he know?"
Renly's voice was somewhat dry. He struggled to remain composed, but his knuckles had already turned white from gripping his wine cup.
It suddenly struck him that Eddard was beside Robert at this very moment, and an immense fear engulfed him.
"Gods above! Has he told Robert?! Has he already accused me before Robert?!"
Robert's fury was devastating, even when directed at his own brothers.
Renly lost his composure, his voice trembling slightly, as though he could already see his own terrible end.
Littlefinger waved a hand, his tone soothing. "Calm yourself, my lord, calm yourself. As far as I know, he has not. At least, not yet. Eddard Stark is a stubborn embodiment of honor. He insists on evidence. He suspects you, but he has no solid proof."
"Proof?"
Renly pressed