[a soft frown with that - he was about to say that at least the city had its one or two bright spots. But it stings him that Cyril has to tiptoe around for a relationship he had waited so long to come to fruition. He cannot imagine how much worse Cyril must feel]

Are the two of you... safe?

[the wording feels a bit awkward, but he elaborates]

I know you would rather it not be so, but you can use me as your excuse now, if you need it - say that Bull was only here to visit me...?