[ there's definitely some implication there, and it gives him some pause for sure. but, it isn't like he disliked that sort of bold honesty. if anything, at least it gave him hint enough that she was placing her faith in him for now. ]

So harsh that you almost reminded me of someone else. [ it's a joke, and it's evident he doesn't place any actual weight to his words. he gives a small shrug as if to only exemplify his prior statements. ]

But, considering we're acquaintances, I can allow that much. [ escorting ladies was a natural occurrence for any noble and yet, it didn't seem to exactly fit the profile of his reputation at home, nor the current circumstance, so instead: ] Don't stray too far, my lady.