I discovered the most succinct way to explain everything during a viewing of The Crying Game. It’s this exchange:

                      DIL
          So what do you want with me, Jimmy?

                      FERGUS
          Want to look after you.

                      DIL
          What does that mean?

                      FERGUS
          Something I heard someone say once.

Fergus was not yet aware of the secrets Dil held—nor was she aware of his—but that’s beside the point. Is it not the most simple, honest intent? No love yet, nor particularly sentimental expressions. Simple intent. This makes me acutely aware of the difference between my intentions and those of other men whom I have observed. I am perhaps traditional to some, but rather than label it I prefer to state it.

Want to look after you.