They were not in favor of their characters getting together like HBO had wanted, as "that's really not what they're about."[29] Per Brown, the sibling relationship informs Brother Justin's and Iris's character and motives, and continued tension frightens the audience more if it is never resolved.[29] Although Brown and Madigan wanted to leave the status of their characters' relationship as lovers open, they deliberately played their kisses more intimate and familiar than most people would consider comfortable.[30] Several characters intervene the siblings' relationship during the show's run.