Alastor hadn't actually meant the comment as a compliment, but he let it go because he was impressed with what James said next -- the point of surviving was to live his life with his husband. Alastor might not have a wife, nor any intention of even looking for one as long as he was an Auror, but he knew what the point of the job was, who the real benefactors were of what they did. He thought it was foolish to do what they did and be involved with someone, but he could respect those who made it work. That was what they were out there working for.
Potter was right, he didn't need to give the boy the arguments the world should have given Shacklebolt twenty years ago.
"Of course it's personal. Like I said, there's a reason I'm going through the Order for it and not working the taskforce myself."
He laughed quietly. "That's fair enough. Some days I can't take us either. Vaisey's choice will be his choice. You have to do what's good for you. There's a spot on Homicide for you if you want it. And your father approves the assignment, of course." Nodding, he got up to walk Potter out. "Any time. In the meantime, I'll see you in the office next week."