'Good dad' is where he is not so much bowing out as he is tumbling awkwardly out of this conversation. Even if it is not true that he would not choose them over anything else in this world. Maybe they will have the luxury of having options other than staying away. Maybe they will not. Whether it is a good or bad thing, they have got twenty seven years to figure this out, before the curse is passed to the next heir.

"Is it not up to her? I will be as involved as required. I merely doubt it is required." He is not reassuring himself that he doesn't need to stick around, or anything like that. He has convinced himself she does not love him back, and he is softening the blow of impending rejection.

"I suppose you haven't given it much thought," is how he changes the subject.