But hostility is not antipathy.
Lilly's skilful housewifery always irritated Aaron: it was so self-sufficient.

But most irritating of all was the little man's unconscious assumption of priority.

Lilly was actually unaware that he assumed this quiet predominance over others.

He mashed the potatoes, he heated the plates, he warmed the red wine, he whisked eggs into the milk pudding, and served his visitor like a housemaid.

But none of this detracted from the silent assurance with which he bore himself, and with which he seemed to domineer over his acquaintance.
At last the meal was ready.