[ This is one of the reasons that he wanted to talk to Sanji about this, because he'd gotten the sense that Sanji would understand what he was saying here.

Though more importantly, he wanted to talk to Sanji, because he didn't think Sanji would isolate and shun Ritsuka. It's not a smile, not exactly, but the corners of his mouth relax a little at hearing that. ]

Not ruining it isn't just leaving her be after all of this though. It means still spending time with her, and making sure she's having a good time too.