"I couldn't bear to see you ruin your clothes, princess," he answers, giving the hem of his shirt a playful tug, trying to pull him a little closer.

Regardless whether he's pulled or not though, the second bit makes him pause. He puts a hand on his shoulder gently, unsure if the other is looking for comfort here or not.

"Why not? I--" he pauses, biting down on his lip. "I don't think we should split up anymore. Not unless we have to."