[ It makes it clear that he still genuinely cares about her a significant amount despite how he's holding himself together, not sure that he would have the same ability to do what's right over prioritizing his family. He says he can now, sure, but by now they're all-- ]

... yeah. Whether you want to think of it as her needing you right now or as the fleet needing you to keep the peace, there's another burden on your head.

When I spoke to her she was obviously ambitious about the war effort. Being separated from the pressure of that may also help.