I have other sources of affection besides my employer. [Lots of them.] However hollow my respect might be, I've never given you reason to distrust and fear me as much as you do. I am powerful, I am highly capable; I could have easily flayed you to my own benefit months ago, and yet here we are, talking face-to-face so honestly.

You know, Walter offered me that. He would take me back if I hurt you, truly hurt you. Tortured you. And I could have. All that money, and yet! Is that hollow respect?

[He smiles again at the final question with a tilt of the head. Chidingly,] Oh, come on. Brilliant, touchy Dr. Chilton -- that ego of yours. Of course I do. And like any smart man, you'll understand that I've been painstakingly demonstrating my use to you to earn your fickle trust, or respect, or whatever you want to call it. For a real partnership.