He was purposefully looking away from her, so it came as a complete surprise when she threw herself at him. He let out an "oof!" as she collided with him, pushing him back into the wall, her chest pressing into his. At first he wasn't sure how to react but after a moment of panicked surprise he wrapped his arms around her and gave her a hug in return.

"I know, I know," he insisted, although the tone of his voice made it clear he wasn't one hundred percent certain. It was clear it was important for him to hear it.

"I think we've done an alright job, sure, but I think you're giving yourself too little credit," he argued. "Without you, I don't know... she's changed a lot just because she's been around you. It's amazing, really. She used to be a little brat." He said it a little louder than he intended, then glanced over at the room and lowered his voice. "I think one day you might make a really good mom."