Rupert's doing exactly what he wants, as he always does. Concepts like duty or necessity or propriety are will-o-the-wisps compared to Rupert's impulses; if he wants to stroke this poor boy's hair then he will. He's nice to him because he can be, because he wants to be, and Rupert has so much affection to spare for someone so hungry for it.

"I am a generous man." He grins brightly, settling into this gentle teasing. Nothing is taken seriously with Rupert, especially in Rupert's own bed. "How long?"