He laughed. "I am a bit maternal when it all comes down, actually," he grinned. "I tend to lean more toward the nurturing side, when it call comes down to it." Even with those that didn't often need it, he tended to. Like Nic, who was fully able to take care of herself, but that didn't mean he didn't take care of her on a regular basis. "Mums do. And I'm sure she'll be appreciative that you do it." He knew so many mothers didn't get the thanks they deserved, but Emma didn't seem the type not to give thanks sometimes. It was still nice she was talking about hugging hers.
He raised his eyebrows, grinning. "She does suit me well. We suit each other better than most, I think." Wrinkling his nose a little, he glanced at her food, too. "Eh, I can eat anytime. I'm just glad I was here to help you. But don't let me keep you from your food, Emma. Eat up, and keep your strength up."