The fact that you know he's doing it out of concern and self-pity, and that Ayano has a crush on him, makes this feel as wholesome, as it is uncomfortable due to their age difference
Wow, so the princess was supposed to marry Seika, but due to messing too much with the future she lost her chance. Now that's sad, I hope there comes a chapter where she's able to see a future with him, and then strives to make it reality.