It's that same thing as before that always strikes Cade right in the heart: the physical affection that manages to be so gentle and innocent, parental even, and it's always like having a small bite of rich food after weeks of going without any at all. The tiniest sense of being cared about and doted on is enough to fill him with emotions he isn't entirely certain how to control, so after a moment he just straightens again, his smile polite and a bit anxious, his face red as can be.
He'd let her continue, but it's probably best to keep things professional. Well. "Professional."

"Have you eaten?" he asks, after an awkward clearing of his throat, and glances toward the food table. It's a safe subject, and a reliable one.