[ He has a half a mind to nudge Aventurine off of himself after that comment, but he doesn't. ]

As flattered as I am that you would actually extend an iota of concern towards me in spite of all we have been through, I can handle one old man myself.

[ He has plenty of experience with deranged father figures. ]

Avoiding him and turning a blind eye would only give him grounds to take advantage of others –if that is indeed his plan.