Jack
I am a wise doctor. Give yourself some time to adapt to this new situation, then handle anything else that wants to come along. And remember, I'm here for anything you need. All flirting aside, you know how much I love you.
It's true, he does like to get protective of people and it's very sweet. And he's missed you. He won't say it, but he has.
Actually she's only really about a year old. Technically! But the point is valid, she's capable of making her own decisions and she likes you.