When he does ask, at least have alcohol on the ready. He might need it later, but he'll want to be sober for that conversation. At least at the start.

"'s gotten a bit pricey now, but... yeah." He smiles faintly, nodding and just as fond. "Let 'er sober up. Last I saw her she was floppin' on a table like a fish on land."

Yes, he's dead serious. She got herself into this mess. Let Ebony get her instead.