Natalie doubted if she had misheard. Was this what Alexander said to her personally?

After saying that, Alexander regretted. He didn't mean that and he just wanted Natalie to be relaxed and not to be so tired. But he knew now Natalie must have misunderstood him.

"I don't mean that, and I just..." Alexander stopped speaking, because he thought any explanation or excuse would not work at the moment.

"Forget it and go about your business," said Alexander ...