It's true, it's only been nine years. It feels like twenty, and yet he can't believe nine years are already gone. Most of his life's memories are now with the Wardens. There haven't been as many as he hoped for. His eyes are still crinkled, but he quietly reminds her:

"Mind your words. Someone could get the wrong idea."

The W-word, in particular. They are not Wardens in public.