Theodore rubbed his forehead a bit but didn't immediately answer. The wine had come, and he tasted his before accepting a full glass with his thanks. It was difficult not to be swept up in Susan's misplaced optimism, especially here in the sunshine with a decent vintage, enraptured by the smell of grass and flowers, but he wasn't in the sort of place that allowed him this kind of carelessness. He did care about being branded. He did care about Azkaban. He could believe her when she said that she didn't care, because she seemed sweet and she had the banner of Hufflepuff waving behind her, but it seemed impractical at best and foolish at worst to defy the difficulties of society just because they didn't match her idealistic sensibilities. He didn't say as much, but he felt wary of her. A loose cannon, genuine and kind though she appeared to be. He'd have to be careful with her.
"I believe you," he said after their server had departed, leaving them with twin glasses sparkling under the bright sky. "And I think your sentiments are admirable." But
"I simply do not wish my company to bring you any kind of difficulties, and those are important to bear in mind, regardless of how pleased I am to spend time with you." And he meant it. Theodore enjoyed the company, and he enjoyed socialising (to an extent), but he had no desire to bring down the wrath of the Ministry on anyone. It was important she understood the risks before she willingly took them on.