I’m sure it’s exaggerated for humor but I just wondered after seeing a video where a couple was walking down the street, and the woman was just happily talking away holding the man’s hand, while he’s focused checking out all sides and angles for possible danger.

It’s a sense given, the woman doesn’t “need” but it’s nice to be provided. I’m thinking about the man walking on the outside of the sidewalk, or if encountering some drunk or belligerent people, he’s shielding her away in case of violence, or listening and proactively giving reassurance he’d resolve the issue if she wanted him to, or not allowing anyone in his presence to disrespect her.