It seems to Miles that there's plenty to be afraid of on that topic. How many fights had he gotten into as a child for the rumors about his father? And he's been so determined to succeed with the hand of cards he'd been dealt - to have a full Vor life, a Lady Vorkosigan at his side and at least half a dozen kids. Which - aren't necessarily incompatible, but they'll make his life harder in ways he never anticipated dealing with. He's strange enough with his twisted body. He doesn't need to add anything on top of that.

"We lived on Beta Colony for a year," he says, his tone almost pleading. "If it were true we should have figured it out then." But the words lose power the first moment they're past his lips. Saying we instead of you is another indication he's already considering this formerly remote possibility. Hell, picturing Bel here is enough for Miles' convictions to sway somewhat. God. Is there anything left to get upended at this point?