Their relationship had been deeper and stronger than Robb's with most of his siblings. Save for Jon, there was no one else near his age growing up. The two of them had bonded, as Jon was always the more solemn and withdrawn. Having someone willing to go out and meet others, to run and be wild, it had meant a great deal. It had also made the betrayal that much sharper and deeper. Forgiveness was a wide river to cross and too treacherous to consider. There were too many scars now, too many blades that had found him in the back.

That he could joke at all with Theon spoke of how much he missed his friend, the friend he had before he became king. Even in hating him, he was still drawn to Theon and still needed some form of that connection. Why else would he unburden some of his secrets to him? Even if it meant risking another betrayal, that need went too deep.

It might not be the same jape as when he was young, but Robb still smiled all the same. It was a grim future they were facing together. "Bitter medicine is always wrapped up in some good intention. Remember Old Nan would try to hide some of the syrup in sweets?"